HUSA Oriente

Frommer's Review

Located on the site of a Franciscan monastery right beside the bustling Rambla, the Oriente was one of the original "grand hotels" of Barcelona, and dates back to 1842. Such was its prominence by the 1950s that it attracted the likes of Toscanini and Maria Callas. It became part of Hollywood legend when Errol Flynn once got so drunk that he passed out in the bar. The manager ordered two bartenders to carry him upstairs where they were instructed to strip the swashbuckling star. The manager then sent word to guests down below that they could see the star in the nude. People filed in for the viewing all night, and when Flynn woke the next morning, he was none the wiser. Renovations have improved the hotel's amenities, but it lacks the style and charisma of its former glory days, today attracting mainly frugal travelers. The arched ballroom of yesterday has been turned into an atmospheric lounge, and the dining room still has a certain grandeur. The simple but comfortable rooms all have tiled bathrooms with shower.

Facilities:
Restaurant (summer only); bar; laundry service

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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