“Excellent hotel. Horrible location.”
Let me start with the hotel itself: clean, modern, new, friendly concierge, free internet / wifi. The hotel is definitely 4stars in quality. The swimming pool at the top floor is extremely nice, albeit cold. It is not a heated pool.
Now the location: it is roughly 45mins away from the city center. If you plan on driving, it probably isn't an issue, but if you are taking the train, it does affect the experience - negatively. In June 2010, there was construction in the Metro/Train system so the "easy" 1 transfer ride to Moncada ended up being 2 chaotic transfers.. from Train to Metro to another metro and then back to train. Add to that your heavy luggage, up and down on the stairs, and limited english of the locals, then it becomes a hassle. If you are a tourist that is only in Barcelona for a few days, then stay in the city center. The experience is so much better when you are right in the city center. Sercotel is a nice hotel, but is definitely far from the action.