Touching the Clouds: The history and splendor of Gran Hotel Bali
The Gran Hotel Bali is more than just a place to stay; it is an architectural icon that redefined the skyline of the Costa Blanca. Standing tall at the end of Poniente Beach, it remains one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in Europe.
Designed by architect Antonio Escario, the Gran Hotel Bali was a monumental project that took nearly a decade to complete. Construction work began in 1988, but the hotel didn't officially open its doors until May 17, 2002. Upon completion, it was the tallest building in Spain (surpassing the Torre Picasso in Madrid) and the tallest hotel in Europe. It held these titles until 2006 and 2011, respectively.
The building stands at 186 meters tall (approximately 610 feet) and consists of 52 floors. Its design was specifically engineered to withstand the strong Mediterranean winds. The Gran Hotel Bali is a four-star superior establishment designed to cater to both leisure travelers and large-scale conventions.
The Famous Glass Elevators: One of the hotel's most thrilling features is its set of high-speed panoramic glass elevators. They whisk guests up the exterior of the building, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. The Lookout Point (El Mirador):
For a small fee (often discounted for guests), visitors can access the rooftop viewing platform.
On a clear day, you can see as far as the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe and the entire bay of Benidorm. Pools and Leisure: Pool Island, a massive lake-style pool complex featuring a tropical island, waterfalls, and a dedicated children’s area. Wellness Center: A full-service spa offering massages, saunas, a gym, and a jacuzzi with sea views. Events and Conventions: With several large multi-purpose rooms, the hotel is a hub for international events, most notably the Benidorm Chess Festival and the Base Jump Extreme World Championship, where daredevils jump from the very top of the building. The hotel boasts 776 rooms, including 12 luxurious suites. There are precisely 914 steps to the top—a popular challenge for athletes!
The "New" Bali: It replaced the original "Gran Hotel Bali" (built in 1970), which was a much smaller building nearby. Did you know? Because of its height and unique shape, the hotel has been used as a filming location for several Spanish movies and TV shows, often standing in for futuristic or high-luxury settings.
