Cold as Ice

In their 2003 smash ‘Hey Ya’, Outkast hit the nail slap bang on the head. “What’s cooler than being cool?” they asked. “ICE COLD” was the emphatic reply and how right they were.

Imagine a bar which is made of ice! The chairs, the walls, the tables, the glasses, the bar - all ice. As far fetched as this concept may sound, this is just the ‘cooler than cool’ experience on offer at Ice Barcelona.

Nestled between nightspots Sotavento Beach Club and Shoko on the prestigious beachfront strip Playa de Barceloneta, Ice Barcelona’s location is inspired. The juxtaposition of having an Ice Bar next to a beach is as actually as practical as it is picturesque.

When strolling along the walkway that separates this privileged cluster of bars and restaurants from the white sandy beach, you cannot help but gawp enviously at those sitting smugly on the glamorously decorated terraces sipping alluring cocktails while they sit gazing out towards the sea.  

With nothing but a beach of scantily clad sun worshippers obstructing the view from the terrace to the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean, this is a truly special spot on a summer’s evening.

Ice Barcelona’s outdoor seating area is served by their ‘Terrace Bar’, where you can enjoy this striking location al fresco from 12pm to 3am. It is however, (no disrespect to the lively and charming terrace bar) the indoor area that is the brightest of the sparkling jewels in this bar’s crown. 

Located at the rear of the terrace bar is an intriguing frosted glass window, providing a teasing glimpse into the chilly world that exists beyond. Little is identifiable however, barring a generally icy feeling of what lies inside. 

Adjacent to the window is a sizable wardrobe, housing rows of thick navy gloves and identical chunky silver puffer jackets, each lined with a fetching fur hood. The necessity of this clothing only hits home when taking a glance at the digital temperature gauge above the window that temptingly broadcasts the temperature beyond the glass to those sweltering in the summer sun on the terrace bar. And with the thermometer sporadically fluctuating between minus 12 and 13, taking advantage of the arctic clothing provided would be a wise move before venturing inside. Next to this wardrobe lies a large industrial looking metal door, featuring an oversize handle resembling something used to close the door of an aeroplane – this is the entrance to the Ice Bar. As this heavy duty door is swung open you are greeted by an initial blast of icy cloud that briefly obscures your view of what lies beneath. Once this ‘Narniaesque’ cloud of mystery has subsided and you begin to recover from the dramatic change in temperature, you’re eyes will begin to digest the small but spectacular interior.  

Immaculately sculpted giant bears and impersonation Gaudi lizards watch over you as you move through this cave-like venue, while cow skin seat covers make sure your backside doesn’t stick to the ice and become a permanent part of the frozen furniture. Stunning ‘ice bauble’ curtains hanging from the roof and crates of beer frozen into walls all contribute to the vast character that this bar has in abundance.

Once inside this fantasy land, as your glove wraps around your glass made with ice to take a chilling sip of ice cold refreshment, you forget that you are actually just a few feet from 35 degree temperatures on one of Spain’s most popular beaches. However, one imposing reminder of your whereabouts is the masterful floor to ceiling replica of the Sagrada Familia - undoubtedly the most striking piece of craftsmanship on offer inside this enchanting bar

Unfortunately this refreshing respite from the summer sun must end sooner rather than later, as it is advisable to stay inside the freezing temperatures for just 45 minutes. But when you leave the chilly interior behind, this brief reprieve from the heat does just enough to leave you with a renewed respect for the summer sun.

Ice Barcelona’s respected neighbours may share the same stunning location and funky terrace vibe on offer, but it is this truly unique, teeth chattering experience that puts this bar in a league of its own. This niche does not just set the bar apart from the local competition, as this is an experience that very few venues can match on an international level.

Some cynical visitors to the city could argue that if they wanted to be cold they would have stayed at home, but these gloomy individuals are missing the point. This is not just a bar, this is an attraction, a real must see, and a truly deserving member of ‘Summer Essential’ status.

If you know of any homesick Eskimo’s in Barcelona, be sure to point them in the right direction.