"Why book? This family farmhouse, renovated and run by the tastemakers behind Barcelona’s hip Hotel Brummell, attracts both hardcore nature explorers and those pondering what a move to the countryside might look like. It ticks off the checklist of rural fantasies—there are chickens, an equestrian center, a golf course, and sink-into armchairs crying out for a good book. All without scrimping on those key urban essentials: an excellent restaurant and strong Wi-Fi. Set the scene Outdoor pursuits are the thread connecting guests, making Mas Sant Marc somewhere casual, cozy, and the type of place where woolly socks serve you better than heels or dress shoes. The daytime uniform is Lycra-based—from athleisure-wear right up to serious cycle attire—then layered in gilets come nightfall to compensate for that stone-house-in-the-country temperature drop. Lively chatter, particularly over breakfast, thrashes out what hiking route to follow, or who won last night’s battle at the billiard table. In summer, it’s also a popular wedding location. The backstory It's an interesting collaboration between Catalan owner Kiko Morer, whose great-grandfather actually built the farmhouse in the 19th century, and Brummell Projects—the boutique hoteliers who run Hotel Brummell in Barcelona and a couple of vibrant riads in Marrakech. The Brummell group’s vibe is urban and sceney, which you see pop out in discrete touches around Mas Sant Marc, such as the on-site boutique that sells t-shirts by Firmamento, a small Barcelona surf brand, as well as local honey and eggs from the hotel’s hens. The rooms Decorated simply, with a palette of beiges, wood, and a quirky touch via, say, a contemporary wall tapestry (there’s that urban edge peeking out again). There’s nothing wildly memorable about the rooms (of which there are 14, including three family suites, plus one villa that sleeps up to 12). However, squishy beds hit all the right spots, and a silence policy after 11pm ensures that a restorative shut-eye is all but set in stone. Food and drink The restaurant fuels guests and non-guests alike, attracting a stream of locals with reservations. You get why. It’s exceptionally good. In part, it has to be—you’re only a 10-minute drive from the French border, so Mas Sant Marc attracts a lot of French visitors, who, stereotype or not, know their food. A simple platter of cured meats was one of the best we’d ever had—abundant in options and flavors, with a couple of hot pieces of sausage included, too. The sweet potato soup with grilled prawns was original, hearty, and gulp-able. For a nightcap, there’s a well-stocked honesty bar. The spa Massages can be reserved with a physiotherapist, and there’s an outdoor pool whose temperature can politely be described as “fresh”. Ok, you might scream. Those who haven’t adopted the ice-bath trend may be more interested in the hot springs at Dorres, a 20-minute drive away. The neighborhood/area The nearest town is Puigcerdà, which offers good lunch options, but the outdoor landmarks are what you come for. Drive 20 minutes to the slopes of Masella and La Molina, both great for e-biking in summer and skiing in winter. There are as many hiking routes as there are untethered cows along them (yep, this is proper countryside). There’s also an 18-hole golf course beside the hotel. It’s worth noting that you definitely need a car here as there’s not much around the hotel to walk to. The service You’re handed a passport-sized guidebook on arrival, which is an absolute gem (other hotels, take note!). It includes maps of cycle, hiking and horse-riding routes; restaurant suggestions; local sights and excursions. Brilliantly useful. Eco effort The main focus is on ‘km0’ products (which means goods that are produced or harvested less than 100km away from where they’re consumed), and avoiding plastic waste by using refillable bottles. Accessibility Unfortunately, there’s no elevator. Anything left to mention? If you do one thing while staying, book dinner. Bigger picture, Mas Sant Marc makes an excellent overnight stop if you’re continuing up into France. Pack a warm layer for those chilly mornings and evenings, then fill your lungs with mountain air, put your legs through their paces, and drink in the spectacular views." - Gemma Askham
