The villa
This noble 14 th Century Catalan mansion offers the best of both worlds with sumptuous and sophisticated accommodation in a stunningly serene location.
A grand and imposing property, Mas Guadalupe stands proud surrounded by peaceful countryside where uplands of dense forest contrast with verdant, flowering meadows to create a real - life oil painting. From the large, first - floor sun terrace, views of the sparkling azure Mediterranean stretching out into the distant horizon are a magical reminder that this essentially rural setting is just a short drive away from from some of most picturesque and unspoilt coastal beauty spots to be found along the Catalan coastline, including Aigua Blava, Tamariu and Llafranc (to name but a few).
As you'd expect from a property that has been lovingly restored over 24 years, great care has been taken to retain all the original features. Rib - vaulted and Baroque style painted ceilings, mullioned windows and exposed stone all subtly combine with an exquisite mixture of traditional and contemporary decor and furnishings to create a stunning masterpiece that cannot fail to delight!
Spanning three floors, Mas Guadalupe is an impressive property that exudes comfort and quality. Equipped with the most up - to - date of fittings and appliances, the layout of the interior offers an abundance of beautifully furnished rooms that open out of each other. Each bedroom enjoys en suite facilities and air conditioning, whilst a selection of beautiful sitting rooms, a snooker room, TV room and library afford a level of intimacy for all, making this an ideal venue for large groups of family and friends.
Relax and re - energise in the indoor spa area, home to the indoor pool with incorporated Jacuzzi, alongside the Finnish sauna and the gym zone.
Outside, explore the impeccable gardens, sun terraces and shaded nooks and crannies which surround the outside swimming pool (which can be heated if desired, at an additional cost). Relax in the poolside pergola, play a few sets of tennis on the tennis court, or enjoy a meal with friends and family on the terrace using the barbecue.
Golf, sandy beaches, cycle routes and walking trails are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed in the surrounding area and even the 4km drive down a rustic track that leads from the property to the local supermarket is a pleasure as one takes in the delightful, ever changing vistas of “mar y montaña” and savours the faint scent of pine, wild broom, lavender and rosemary.
Stretching north from the town of Blanes and almost to the French border, seafronts are seldom as picturesque as the one hugging the Costa Brava. Holidays here are the ideal way to enjoy this sun and sea destination, which offers history and culture in the form of idyllic fishing villages to complement the beautiful weather.
Mas Guadalupe is in a charming Costa Brava province called Girona. Head to Palafrugell (5 km) and explore its narrow streets and ancient fortifications. Visit St. Martí's 11 th century church, or go to Calella de Palafrugell. Llafranc (10 km), is an area loved by artists such as Salvador Dalí and Ernest Hemingway, an offers the opportunity for a nice stroll along the sea. Go to the stunning secluded rocky coasts near Tamariu and Begur to enjoy a dip in the crystal clear water, considered the purest of the region.
Enjoy the marvellous views of the enormous vertical cliffs going down into the sea and covered with pine trees. Touch the medieval architecture of Peratallada and breathe the scent of herbs in the air during its Herb Festival. Move on to L´Escala to visit its port full of small ships. Pass by Ampurias’ ruins or get closer to the arts in Figueres, where you'll find the Dalí Theatre - Museum. This contains a broad spectrum of works covering Dalí's career, and is a real must for visitors!
And of course, only 125km away from Mas Guadalupe is gorgeous and cosmopolitan Barcelona with its Gaudí buildings, the Temple of Sagrada Familia (his masterpiece and architectural jewel) or Casa Batlló, a major landmark of Modernist style. Also worth a visit is Barcelona's magnificent theatre opera house, the Gran Teatre del Liceu, opened in 1847 on Barcelona's famous Rambla. One of the key landmarks of Barcelona, it has been a major centre for culture and the performing arts for over 150 years.