A COZY CASA RURAL + CHIC BED & BREAKFAST

A couple of winters ago I was scouring the web to find a cozy, romantic locale for a long weekend near our home in Catalonia. I sifted through a ton of casa rurales until I landed on Can Campolier. Located an hour and a half outside Barcelona in Porqueres near Banyoles Lake, this cozy Catalan estate was just what I had been looking for.

*BOTH OF THE ACCOMMODATIONS INCLUDED IN THIS POST ARE ON MY “WHERE TO STAY IN SPAIN” LIST!

CAN CAMPolIER

We were the only guests at Can Campolier that winter weekend, and had Can Benet cottage all to ourselves (it sleeps 10 so there was a lot of room!)

The first night we arrived, er drove to a grocery in town for provisions and we grilled sausage on the outdoor pit. We cozied up by the fire inside. We watched The Holiday (Now every year when I watch the scenes from the Cotswolds ottage I think of our Catalan cottage!)

Staying at Can Campolier is a great idea for anyone but especially so for cycling enthusiasts (which I am not, but I do my best!) They are fully equipt with bike rentals and gear far fancier than I am used to. They are true pros. (No really, the owner is -was?- on a pro cycling team!)

The first day we took a short ride into Banyoles and rode around the lake. The following day, after breakfast in n the main house, we were a bit more adventurous and rode the 16 km to Besalú, a charming medieval town. The route was very scenic and just challenging enough for yours truly. The final day rich rode to Doskiwis, a brewery 30 km away while I rode into town with my book in search of a good cappuccino.

LES HAMAQUES

Our next stop was just 40 minutes toward the coast in the tiny town of Viladamat. Though the term “hidden gem” is a bit overplayed, I wouldn’t hesitate in describing Les Hamaques as such.

Les Hamaques is helmed by the warm and welcoming Johan and Sandy. The design is modern and warm.

Located a mere 15 minutes from the beaches of Costa Brava, we rode into L’Escala to explore. My favorite part of this trip though was sitting by the fireplace in the cozy chic common area followed by a delicious meal in the enchanting greenhouse.