Casa Anamaria Hotel, Nr Girona, Spain - Explore & Book

"Situated deep in the Catalan countryside, framed by the Pyrenees mountain range, this honey-coloured patrician villa appears like a mirage as you approach via a dusty driveway, past acres of green. A dramatic fountain at the entrance sets the tone for an opulent stay. Inside the main hotel, 16 contemporary-style rooms are spread across two floors; there’s also a central courtyard and a spa. But it doesn't end there. Steps away is Villa Maria, offering more traditional country-style rooms within the original 14th-century farmhouse building, while neighbouring Villa Ana features a modern studio and a family room. Vintage ornaments are peppered throughout all three buildings, courtesy of the French owner, Olivier Mitterand (nephew of ex-president, François). A stay at Casa Anamaria Hotel is the perfect antidote to busy urban life: birdsong was the soundtrack to our days here, and perfectly manicured gardens feature plenty of shaded nooks to sit and relax in; it's impossible not to take in the tranquillity of it all. With a pool, tennis court, restaurant and 22,000sqm of gardens, it’s tempting not to leave the hotel - and many guests don’t - though medieval towns, the Costa Brava’s prettiest coves and world-famous cycle routes are a strong pull. You're among Catalonia's greatest treasures here but you're safely tucked away from the crowds. Highs All the green space: over 60 acres of gardens, woods and fields, plus pine and oak trees lining a shimmering saltwater pool Option of booking the spa for private 1-hour sessions - and i-escape guests get 50% offStaff are as friendly as they are helpful: you feel very welcome hereThe fine-dining restaurant, which serves Catalan dishes with a modern twist and veggies grown in the gardenThe location near Costa Brava beaches, medieval towns and Salvador Dali hotspots Lows The restaurant doesn’t feature light, inexpensive options, though the pool bar does (open in summer only). The nearest alternatives are a 20-minute drive away (not so easy with young kids)You’ll need a car – or a bike – to get here and explore the surrounding areaRooms in the villas have a different look and feel to the main hotel rooms - no less attractive, but more rusticThis area is known for the Tramuntana wind, so you get higher than average windy days" - Clemmy Manzo