Located in an unspoilt seaside town, Grazia headed to the swanky new hotel ME Sitges Terramar to explore it and the gay-friendly beach town capital of Sitges.
Where to stay
Situated on the Catalan coast, the newly opened hotel ME Sitges Terramar is a tranquil, luxurious hotel that's - in our eyes - the only place to stay when holidaying in Sitges. The hotel has 213 exquisite rooms (70% of which have sea front views, while the remaining 30% have breathtaking mountain and hotel garden views), all of which boast sophisticated decor that captures the essence of the Mediterranean.
The cool colour palette and spa-style bathrooms - which come complete with natural Apivita amenities - make for a very comfortable stay indeed. The floor to ceiling windows in the Sea Room views are truly breath-taking, and allow you to enjoy sweeping views of the stunning Mediterranean Sea, which you can see from both your bed and the balcony. If you're celebrating a special occasion and want to treat yourself or your loved one, you can opt to stay in the Suite Me, which is located on seventh floor and is the hotel’s most extravagant suite. Complete with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, a private terrace, a private social lounge, state-of-the-art technology, fully automated mood lighting system and a dedicated Aura Manager who is available 24 hours a day, this suite definitely doesn't disappoint.
The hotel pool is another thing to marvel at: surrounded by sun loungers and bali beds, it also has it's very own pool bar which comes complete with DJs. Soft towels and water spray bottles are provided to you to keep you comfortable while you relax in the Mediterranean heat. And if you prefer the beach, there's one with golden sand and warm water just a stones throw away. No really, we literally mean a stones throw away - just opposite the hotel, in fact. This beach, and the ones further up the strip, offer a variety of water sports from paddle-boarding to dinghy sailing, so there really is something for everyone.
ME Sitges Terramar also has a state-of-the-art gym and spa offering a range of relaxing treatments like massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, so be sure to squeeze in some extra 'me' time and unwind.
What to do
When you're not relaxing by the pool, you can take part in the hotel's daily yoga classes or try your hand at the hotel's golf course, which is a leisurely 25 minutes walk away.
Definitely find some time to head into Old Town, which you can get to by cab or by a 30 minute stroll along the beach front. When there, you can explore the maze-like streets cobbled and take in the town's historic architecture. For a little slice of culture (and for those who are into art and sculptures), book a tour at the Museu Maricel and Palau Maricel - the latter of which has sights that will leave you in awe.
While in Sitges, be sure to visit Vivero Beach Club. This modern space features a restaurant and sunbathing area, and overlooks one of the most popular beaches in the town. And if the views of the beach aren't enough to blow you away, then the delicious seafood menu will be.
Where to eat
For ease of dining when you're having a relaxing pool day, have lunch at the the main restaurant in the hotel, Beso Sitges. Your tastebuds will go wild for the Mediterranean-inspired dishes on the menu, which are inspired by local cuisine. Our favourite was the mixed seafood paella, which can be shared with a group of friends.
When you're heading into town, book up a table at Al Fresco Restaurante. Here, you'll be treated to delicious Spanish food in a romantic, tranquil setting. Think pretty plants, flowers and hanging candles which light up the restaurant.
If you want to explore the town a bit more in the evenings, then dine at Restaurante Can Laury, which offers an incredible view of the marina and serves up some of the best seafood available.
Where to drink
Before heading out into town, we recommend having a drink at the ME Sitges Radio Rooftop located on the 8th floor of the hotel. It offers breath-taking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, and you can chill out to music and sip on delicious cocktails (the espresso martinis are to die for!). Alternatively, sit and drink at the Oyster Bar in the lobby, which offers a fresh selection of oysters, crab and seafood, which you can enjoy while sipping on a wine or champagne from the bar's extensive list.
In town, Sea You Chill Out is a great choice for after-dinner cocktails. It overlooks the marina which is beautifully lit up at night, and has a laid-back yet fun atmosphere - perfect for when you have a full stomach but still don't want the night to end. The gay-friendly beach town capital of Sitges also has lots of bars you can explore if you're after more of a party scene.
To book your stay at ME Sitges Terramar, visit www.ME-by-Melia.com. Room rates start at £200.