Tibidabo

Tibidabo Review

One of Barcelona's two promontories, this hill bears a distinctive name, generally translated as "To Thee I Will Give" and referring to the Catalan legend that this was the spot from which Satan tempted Christ with all the riches of the earth below (namely, Barcelona). When the wind blows the smog out to sea, the views from this 1,789-foot peak are legendary. Tibidabo's skyline is marked by a commercialized neo-Gothic church built by Enric Sagnier in 1902, a radio mast that used to seem tall, and—looking like something out of the 25th century—the 854-foot communications tower, the Torre de Collserola, designed by Sir Norman Foster. There's not much to see here except the vista, particularly from the tower. Clear days are few and far between in 21st-century Barcelona, but if you hit one, this two-hour excursion is worth considering.

La Venta. The restaurant La Venta at the base of the funicular is excellent and a fine place to sit in the sun in cool weather (straw sun hats are provided). Pl. Doctor Andreu s/n, Vallvidrera, 08035. 93/212-6455.

El Mirador de la Venta. El Mirador de la Venta has great views and contemporary cuisine to match. Pl. Doctor Andreu s/n, Vallvidrera. 93/212-6455.

Mirablau. The bar Mirablau, overlooking the city lights, is a popular late-night hangout. Pl. Doctor Andreu s/n. 93/418-5879.