With superb tapas bars dotted around the city, remarkable architecture here and there, a thriving art and culture scene and relaxing sun-drenched shores, there are limitless options for everyone in Barcelona even for the healthy conscious traveler. Below, you will find our favourite wellness discoveries from sustainable cafes and restaurants, eco boutique stays to artisan shops and earth-friendly activities, proving that staying fit and balanced in this cosmopolitan city is not such a difficult feat.
Eats
Carrer de la Reina Cristina, 12
A vegetarian restaurant where both vegetarians and non-vegetarians can enjoy a satisfying meal. The menu is inventive and seasonal using local produce and ingredients with dishes mostly inspired by Mediterranean cuisine infused with middle eastern, asian and Latin American flavours. The interior is modern yet airy and light-filled with touches of wood and greenery making it welcoming and comfortable enough for a date or group of friends to share a tasty, healthy meal.
Carrer de l’Amirall Aixada, 22
Situated right in the heart of Barceloneta beach, this trendy cafe is a great place for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Think salad and smoothie bowls, wraps, burgers, tacos and fruit smoothies which are best consumed on their patio with views of the beach. They also offer activities such as paddle boarding and workouts to keep you in shape.
Carrer dels Tallers, 74b
With already three locations in Barcelona, Flax & Kale by Catalan chef, Teresa Carles offers flexitarian cuisine of which 80% is plant-based and 20% contain seafood options. With an extensive menu ranging from açai bowls, cold pressed juices to gluten-free pizzas, burgers and healthy sweets, this stylish spot has got you covered with nourishing and sustainable food from brunch all the way to dinner.
Carrer de Jovellanos, 2
Another one from Teresa Carles’ vegetarian food empire, this eponymous restaurant is suitable for vegans, raw vegans and those on a gluten-free diet. The menu changes weekly using fresh fruits and vegetables that are locally grown. And good news for those with pets, this establishment is dog-friendly!
BarcCeloneta Sangria Bar
Carrer de Sevilla, 70
Vegetarian versions of Spanish food may be a rare thing in this city but it does exist in this beachside bar. Both vegetarians and vegans will be delighted by plant-based paella and tapas offerings on the menu which can be paired with a selection of local organic wines. Finish off with a raw, dairy-free dessert to complete your meat-free Spanish meal!
Shop
Carrer d’Avinyo, 7
If there is one thing you must take home from your trip to Spain, it would be traditional espadrilles from La Manual Alpargatera, the go-to place to shop for authentic Spanish footwear. Staying true to tradition, all pairs are still handmade and come in a variety of colours and styles.
Carrer de Ricart, 2
If you are in need to stock up on essentials while travelling, a head over to Granel, a health-centric, whole food store in the hip neighbourhood of Poble Sec. Find superfoods, organic produce, herbal remedies and sustainable products. Make sure to take your empty containers and produce bags which you can fill with your purchases from their refillable station.
Carrer de Ramon y Cajal, 34
Spain is home to big fast fashion brands like Zara and Mango, but that doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice your sustainable lifestyle when it comes to shopping. Sunsais is an slow fashion store with pieces made from sustainable and ethical materials. Shop for clothes, accessories, cosmetics and footwear that does the planet good.
Do
Tres Xemeneies, Saturdays, 10-4pm
Mercat dela Terra is a slow food market where you will find farmers and artisans selling a variety of local and seasonal produce and gastronomic delights such as vegetables, grains, fruits, dairy products, meats, pastries and bread.
Carrer de Magahlaes, 2
Spacious and immaculate wooden floors, stone walls and big right windows, The Garage will definitely inspire you to get your yoga practice going even when you’re travelling. Choose to join classes in a range of styles such s hatha, vinyasa, ashtanga and yin. Besides yoga, the space also offers wellness workshops and even retreats.
Luxury travel meets slow travel in carefully curated, private, eco-boutique experiences for you conscious travellers. Barcelona Slow Travel takes you to unexplored villages, lesser known nature spots, local organic farms and family-run wineries, shops and restaurants for a truly authentic, gastronomic Catalan adventure. There are organic wine and cava tours, cheese and olive oil tours, farm to table cooking and much more.
Carrer de Ramon y Cajal, 32
A next level spa with a commitment to clean and ethical beauty, Vegere is Barcelona’s first vegan beauty centre. All products and ingredients used are chosen carefully, working with brands that are 100% cruelty-free and organic as possible for facials, massages, nail and makeup services.
Stay
Carrer d’Elisabets, 11
Run by the same company behind the Camper shoe brand, Casa Camper is ideally located in the centre within the alleys of Raval, is a fresh, modern and stylish designer hotel with sustainable practices. It runs on solar energy for hot water and runs a water recycling system which allows shower water to be re-used as toilet flush, reducing water consumption to 50%. Apart from this, Casa Camper is equipped with energy saving lights, makes use of eco cleaning products and offers bicycles for guests to explore the city the greener way.
Carrer de les Ramelleres, 27
A place where you can stay green in all aspects. Hostel Grau is an eco boutique hotel designed and furnished using sustainable, natural materials and minimalist decor. Think banana wood side tables, organic carbon paint and coco-mat mattresses. And for a truly relaxing experience, you can make a booking for the Off Room that is free from electromagnetic radiation. To top it off, this hotel guarantees that you have a healthy stay with natural coffee and tea infusions, homemade cakes offered in the lounge and soaps, shampoo, room fragrances and cleaning products are all made using plant-based ingredients.
