SLS Barcelona – Review

The new SLS Barcelona is transforming the Port Fòrum marina into the city’s latest must-visit destination. Glamorous, maximalist design frames rooftop pool parties at Cosmico, wood-fired Mediterranean dining at Lora, and a late-night cocktail and DJ scene from the lobby to the infinity pools. This five-star waterfront playground is home to 471 balcony rooms, twin infinity pools, DJs and live music, and signature dining with delicious sharing plates from Chef Justin Collinge’s open-fire kitchen spanning flavours from Barcelona to Beirut.

The SLS approach to hospitality has always favoured spectacle over restraint, and their Barcelona debut delivers exactly that. Located in the evolving Port Fòrum district, this five-star playground anchors an area that’s transforming from nautical port to lifestyle destination. While downtown Barcelona bustles, fifteen minutes away, here you’ll find space to breathe and be seen doing it.

Glamorous Rooms

Your room becomes a private theatre of its own. Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes line the entrance vestibule, while a smoky marble minibar stocks everything from premium spirits to crispy pineapple treats. The bathroom reveals itself through sliding doors, presenting a double vanity surrounded by hammered metal and contemporary Venetian mirror. Separate shower and WC areas hide behind ribbed vintage glass, while Ortigia Florio amenities from Italy add authentic luxury. Even the bathrobes tell a story, embroidered with SLS’s iconic duck alongside butterflies and dragonflies.

Cosmico Rooftop

But the real action happens beyond your balcony. Cósmico rooftop commands the skyline with twin infinity pools and a soundtrack provided by resident DJs. Day parties transition seamlessly into evening affairs, with creative cocktails flowing against views that stretch from marina to Mediterranean. The Japanese-inspired menu keeps things light, think karaage chicken and tuna tataki, while the atmosphere grows more electric as the sun sets. Monthly ‘Cosmic Affairs’ events bring international DJs like Juicy M and Charles B to elevate the energy even further.

Lora Restaurant

When hunger calls, Lora provides the answer through Chef Justin Collinge’s modern Mediterranean kitchen. The South African chef draws inspiration from every Mediterranean shore, from North Africa to the Levant, Iberian Peninsula to Italian islands. Watch flames dance in the open kitchen’s wood-fired grills as dishes emerge with smoke and soul. Start with warm kubaneh bread and a selection of dips including the standout spinach borani with caramelised onions and pistachio. The chicken and apricot tagine arrives fragrant with Berbere spices, its heat balanced by cooling yoghurt and fresh coriander. Sommelier Daniela guides wine pairings that might include Lebanese bottles to complement the Middle Eastern influences.

L’Anxova Divina

For a more casual approach, L’Anxova Divina celebrates Barcelona’s tapas culture with pinchos, small plates, and the essential afternoon vermouth ritual. The informal space captures the city’s social dining spirit, perfect for grazing from lunch through late night.

The design narrative continues throughout common areas where Rockwell Group has embraced maximalism with obvious joy. Silver walls gleam in reception while the lobby’s twisted chandelier creates dramatic shadows. Lift floors feature unexpected patterns, and every surface seems designed to catch and reflect light.

Port Fòrum

Beyond the hotel, Port Fòrum reveals its potential. Morning walks lead through parkland to beaches, while jogging paths offer views stretching to the iconic W Hotel. The area pulses with development energy, new beach clubs, rooftops, and dining venues signal the district’s evolution into Barcelona’s next social hub. SLS sits at the centre of this transformation, its rooftop parties and late-night energy helping to establish the area’s new identity.

The marina itself specialises in superyachts, with both wet and dry berths creating a constantly changing backdrop of impressive vessels. Walking the quaysides at sunset, you’ll witness the daily theatre of arrivals and departures while enjoying the sea breeze that makes Barcelona’s climate so appealing.

Meetings with Sparkle

For business travellers, the Gala Ballroom brings the same theatrical approach to meetings and events. Red curtains and dramatic lighting create a memorable setting, while the Gala Foyer’s carved walls and statement chandeliers provide an impressive welcome. Even smaller Spotlight and Limelight meeting rooms maintain the property’s design standards without sacrificing functionality.

As evening approaches, the building comes alive with possibility. Cocktail bar Deluxe operates from morning until late night, providing the soundtrack to chance encounters and planned celebrations alike. The rooftop transforms into Barcelona’s most elevated party venue, where city lights compete with stars for attention.

This is Barcelona hospitality designed for those who appreciate flamboyance alongside their comfort, where every detail serves the larger narrative of indulgence and entertainment.