Barcelona seen from above.

June 17 2013

by Marc Dedonder

You all know Barcelona, BCN for friends. One of the gayest cities in Europe, which welcomes thousands of gays every summer for the Circuit festival. The gay beaches of Barceloneta and Mar Bella, and its gay district of the Eixample or "Gayxample" have no secrets for you. But have you ever thought of taking a trip to the top? Barcelona can be seen from below, in the heart of the city, but it can be seen so much better from above...

There are many points of observation in Barcelona. It is possible to admire the extent and especially the organization of the city, which is all the more impressive when you have a panoramic view of it. Let's start with the most traditional.

A must-see, the Parc Guëll sees thousands of tourists pass by every day to observe Gaudi's architectural follies, or to try to escape the hustle and bustle of the city by taking a breath of fresh air in the park's greenery. But don't miss the sublime view from the "Plaza de la Natura" (Nature Square), surrounded by its huge mosaic-covered bench.

Panoramic view from the Hill of the Three Crosses

For those who are not afraid of heights, dare to climb the few steps that lead to the top of the "Turó de les tres creus" (Hill of the Three Crosses), still in the park, and contemplate the horizon, letting yourself be overwhelmed by an elusive feeling of freedom, quite simply...

Always stronger, always higher. The highest point in the city is the Tibidabo peak, at 512 meters above sea level. Once you reach the top, you are simply amazed. From here you can see the whole city. From the airport in the south to the Torre Agbar in the north, the view is breathtaking. If you need an excuse to venture up there, there is an amusement park waiting for you, as well as the Church of Sangrat Cor, from whose terrace the view is best.

View from Mount Tibidabo

On your way back down to the city, don't forget to stop at one of the observation points, from where you can really admire the geometric organization of Barcelona, all in parallels and perpendiculars. Everything is so well "arranged" that it is almost disturbing (especially for a Parisian). But wow! With the sea as a backdrop, you won't be disappointed.

Another perspective, towards theMontjuic park. Ideal for a little hike, the hill, which dominates the port ofBarcelona, will give you the impression of overlooking the sea. You will also be close to the Olympic Stadium or the sublime television tower. After passing by the unmissable and amazing cemetery on the hill, go to the Montjuïc Castle to enjoy the view. Take a breath. Look. Enjoy. Barcelona is yours. Consider taking the cable car back down to the beach. Impressive, especially if it's a bit windy!

View from an observation point of Mount Tibidabo

View from the Montjuic Castle

Finally, many hotels offer rooms with breathtaking views. Among them, the Hesperia Tower, or the Fira Congress, both in the Hospitalet district, more business oriented. On the other side of the city, the ME Barcelona offers designer rooms, with a whole wall of glass, for a most impressive and breathtaking view. For a panoramic view of the sea, you'll have to opt for the W Barcelona, an unmissable gay-friendly luxury hotel in the shape of a huge sail.

View from a room on the 29th floor of the ME Barcelona

As you can see, Barcelona has much more to offer than just its beaches. But don't worry, after admiring the city from above, you deserve to come back down to earth and allow yourself a little paella in one of the restaurants of the Rambla. Afterwards, head for one of the many gay establishments on Calle Consell de cent or Arago. And viva Barcelona.