Catalonia, Catalonia, Spain

REFNO:549218. The former sleeping quarters of the Marquesa de Gironella, this characterful apartment oozes old-world charm. We can't get enough of the sky-high beamed ceilings or the huge windows – they truly are as impressive as they look – nor can we take our eyes off those views. Step out onto the balconies (there are three of them) and admire the rolling valley and the estate's verdant garden. One balcony even has a quaint bistro-style table – whether you're enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning breeze or trying the regional wine gifted by your lovely hosts, it's the ideal spot to relax in the Spanish rays. And speaking of the sun, all of the estate runs on sustainable sources like solar panels, which provide electricity, hot water, and underfloor heating. What we love most, however, are the impressive grounds. Enjoy an afternoon dip in the pool, play a game of table tennis, or use a mountain bike and explore the trails leading into the Catalan countryside. The sleepy medieval village centre of La Torre de Claramunt is just around the corner – there you’ll find a few local eateries, a delicious bakery and an 11th-century castle. It's hard to believe that this traditional town is only a fifty-minute drive from Barcelona's city centre – we think it's pretty perfect for those craving a laid-back stay in the heart of Catalonia. Home truths: *Two guests will sleep on the sofa bed in the living area *Cots, high chairs, changing pads, toys and a baby bath are available on request *This home is on the first floor with a lift – wide doorways make it accessible to everyone *You'll need a car to explore the local area – there's free parking on-site *Your host provides a welcome basket with a local bottle of wine, fruit juice, water, olive oil, pepper and salt *This home is set on an estate with other apartments – the entrance is shared with other residents, as are the gardens, swimming pool, playground and table tennis area *Barcelona is about an hour's drive on the A2 – it’s just over an hour by train to Capellades, which is five minutes away from this home