Key Takeaways
Best Coffee: Nomad Coffee Lab & Satan's Coffee Corner. Best Architecture: The Mies van der Rohe Pavilion (The temple of minimalism). The Ritual: An early morning swim at Barceloneta before the city wakes up. Where to Stay: Casa Bonay (Creative hub) or The Hoxton Poblenou. Munich is where we find our focus. Barcelona is where we find our energy.
There is a reason we shot our Swimwear Campaign here. The light in this city hits differently. It is a place where the chaos of the city meets the calm of the Mediterranean. For the modern creator Barcelona offers a unique rhythm. A balance between intense work sessions in world class cafes and the immediate release of the ocean.
Here is how to navigate the Catalan capital the HACOY way.
- The Coffee (and Work)
Barcelona has one of the best specialty coffee scenes in Europe. These are not just places to get caffeine but spaces to think.
Nomad Coffee Lab: Tucked away in a small passage this is for the purists. The coffee is exceptional and the vibe is serious. There is no Wi Fi which makes it perfect for writing or sketching in your notebook.
Satan's Coffee Corner: Located in the Gothic Quarter. It is loud, unapologetic and brilliant. Great for a quick espresso break when you need to wake up your nervous system.
- The Architecture (Inspiration)
You cannot walk through Barcelona without looking up. But beyond Gaudi there is a quiet minimalism that aligns with our philosophy.
The Mies van der Rohe Pavilion: This is the holy grail of modernism. Glass, steel, travertine and water. It is a masterclass in "Less but Better." Go here when you need to clear your visual palette.
Fundació Joan Miró: Perched on Montjuïc this museum is a stunning example of white concrete and Mediterranean light. The walk up the hill is a workout in itself.
- The Ritual (The Sea)
The superpower of Barcelona is the beach. But do not go at 2 PM with the tourists.
Go at 7 AM.
The sunrise swim at Barceloneta is a ritual for the locals. The water is cool, the sand is empty and the horizon is clear. It is the perfect cold plunge to start your day. We designed our Swimwear Collection for exactly this moment. Quick drying and comfortable enough to wear from the water straight to breakfast.
- The Food
Dinner here is late and social.
Bar Cañete: Sit at the counter. It is fast, noisy and the seafood is incredibly fresh. It feels alive.
El Nacional: A beautiful culinary space that feels like a 1920s theatre. Perfect for a business dinner or celebrating a launch.
- The Stay
Casa Bonay: A hotel that feels like a friend's apartment. The lobby is a co working space by day and a cocktail bar by night. The lighting is warm and the design is impeccable.
The Uniform for Barcelona
The weather shifts quickly here. You need layers that breathe.
The Linen Shirt: Essential for the humidity. Wear it open over your swim shorts. The Swim Shorts: In Barcelona these are not just for the beach. They are daywear. Pair them with a Linen Shirt and you are ready for lunch. Enjoy the light.