Description Shades of Viva: Barcelona

One of the first things you'll spot from the private balcony of this smart apartment is the Xemeneia de la Bordeta – the historic smokestack of one of the 19th Century porcelain factories this area was famed for. Today it's a protected landmark standing tall in the small square of Plaça de Joan Corrades i Bosch, just opposite this colourful, freshly renovated home.

Here you're guaranteed a comfortable stay, with plenty of natural light, a squashy velvet sofa to put your feet up on and that rare piece of outdoor space – somewhere to people watch over your morning coffee as the bustling neighbourhood bursts into life. The bedrooms are bright and simple, with space for a small family or a few friends. It's an easy walk to the nearby Magic Fountain of Montjuïc for the nightly shows of light and colour, and the Metro station a few minutes from your door gives you easy access to the rest of the city.

Home truths:
*The area can be busy and vibrant – you should expect some noise in the evenings
*There's laptop-friendly workspace at the table
*The building has a shared entrance