Description Balé: Barcelona

Situated on the corner of a busy street, this restored nineteenth-century apartment is a stone's throw from the beach. With its elegant vaulted ceilings, original crown mouldings and high-end furnishings it's a luxurious choice for couples, groups of friends and families. The generous offering of homemade complimentary toiletries and the Mies van der Rohe chairs in the living room show the hosts really care about quality. The balconies, accessed through large French doors, provide fantastic views of Barcelona's historic Post Office building of Via Laietana and Port Vell.

Home truths:
*This is not someone's private home so don't expect a local tour guide upon arrival

*It's in the heart of central Barcelona so there's some traffic noise – light sleepers may want to look for somewhere in a quieter residential area

*Although there's a TV, the apartment could benefit from a few extra leisure options – there are no books, card or board games available

*Some of the décor does not match – those keen on immaculately-designed pads should look elsewhere

*The bathroom window does not open easily – it could feel stuffy for some

* The rooftop pool and terrace are shared between the whole building