On top of Everything

Not really, but close to be.

One of the most cool things to do on a sunny day here in Barcelona is going to any of the several spots from where you can admire this fabulous city.

Many are famous and therefore accessible at a low price, others are harder to find and reach but are totally free. One of my favourite spots is El Bunker del Carmelo, also known as "Turò de la Rovira".

Despite being one of the most popular cities for travellers in Europe, Barcelona still has a few hidden-gem locations which even some of the locals don’t know about and this is certainly one. Located far away from the tourist crowds in the city centre, the Bunkers have for years been something of a well-guarded secret enjoyed only by the most curious of local explorers.

It's not the highest point in Barcelona (which is Tibidabo) but certainly quicker to arrive too and still amazing. Until recently the Bunkers del Carmel were a well-kept secret which only a handful of the most adventurous of the city’s residents visited.

An abandoned military outpost on the outskirts of the city, today it’s one of the coolest hangouts in Barcelona and offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Catalan capital.

The Bunkers del Carmel are part of Barcelona city heritage, and belong to the MUHBA, Museo de Historia de Barcelona (Barcelona History Museum).

This spot was chosen to build them due to its panoramic view over the city, which gave the opportunity to be aware of dangers and potential attacks.

In addition to the bunkers, four cannons were installed to protect and defend Barcelona from potential bombings.

After the war, the artillery was removed, and in the holes caused by the bombings, districts made out of precarious houses appeared.

They are called “barri dels canons” which means cannon districts.

Immigrants built these houses using their meagre resources, and settled there. In 1990, Barcelona’s urbanization changed a lot to prepare the Olympic games of 1992, and these houses were removed. Earthenware and ruins are still visible, just like in an archeological site.

In 2006, the MUHBA, Museu d’Historia de Barcelona (Barcelona’s History Museum) started restoration works and added information signs to enable visitors to learn more about this important place in the History of the Spanish civil war.

In 2011 took place the inauguration of this new public space, accessible for free.

However, during the 80’s and 90’s the area’s popularity grew as the younger generations discovered it, and enjoyed its remoteness which meant it was far away from the chaos of the city. Since then, the Bunkers del Carmel has become famous for offering one of the best panoramic views of the city, an impressive 360º view across Barcelona and its surroundings.

Part the Bunkers’ charm comes from the fact that the only way to get there is to walk from either the metro station or the bus stop (22, 119), the latter being much closer, about 20 mins by walk. From the Hospital of Sant Pau (Yellow Line and closest metro stop) it takes more or less 30 mins to reach the top.

While this means the area isn’t accessible to everyone, it also means that only the most committed explorers will make it to the top. I know it might sound like a lot to deal with, but trust me, once you arrive on the top, the sight that will appear below you, will be totally worth it.

The experience is totally different if you go there by night or by day.

The ideal is to arrive in the late afternoon to see it by day and to stay there to watch the sunset and the night view.

Another great option is to go there early in the morning to watch the sunrise.

Just remember when it's a little cold, that is very windy up there, so if you decide to go, wear a warm jacket.

Whatever time you choose to go there, it is a perfect spot for lovers, for a romantic time on the heights of Barcelona.

Of course, the view is enjoyable to have a picnic with friends or family too, or even alone to meditate in a peaceful setting.

People go there to chat with friends, walk with dogs and why not, drink some beers or wine while listening to music and enjoy the sun and the dazzling panoramic view.

It’s a place that is good both for your heart, soul, eyes and body.

Some exercise followed by the victory of reaching one of my favourite spots in Barcelona.

Don’t miss your chance to go, if you happen to visit BCN or if you have never been there until now.

And if you have any doubt on where to stay, here's a great and useful link about the The 12 Best Airbnbs In Barcelona, Spain.

An Airbnb isn't only a better option due to the possibility of having your own flat, cook and spend time chilling while feeling at home, but it gives you also the opportunity to fully live the catalan live and to even spend less money.

Here some of the best options mentioned in the above link: