Can Borrell

Kirsten Foster

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Experience the best of the Catalan countryside – great views, relaxing tranquillity and delicious produce – in this warmly welcoming farmhouse hotel in the foothills of the Pyrenees.

The quiet Catalan Pyrenees village of Meranges has been likened to a living nativity scene, a picture of serene rural charm. A drive of just over two hours will take stressed-out travellers from Barcelona (Easyjet) or Girona (Ryanair) airports to this tranquil spot 1,550m above sea level.

Most visitors come here especially to stay and eat at the Can Borrell guesthouse, a cosy, squat stone building with eight simple rooms, two of which have mezzanine sleeping areas with fantastic views of the valley. All the rooms in the 200-year-old farmhouse are un-fussily decorated with white walls, traditional solid wood furniture, patchwork quilts and antique-style lamps.

The restaurant is the hotel's big selling point; chef Oliver Verdaguer uses local products, mostly from Meranges itself, in traditional dishes enhanced with his own special creative touch. Specialities include locally caught quail baked in vine leaves, jugged hare and trinxat, a kind of Catalan bubble and squeak. The rustically decorated dining room looks out over the valley, and while you gaze at the view the three deer trophies mounted over the open fire gaze at you.

There are lots of opportunities nearby for walking, climbing, rafting, skiing and riding, and after all that you're guaranteed a good night's sleep in this utterly tranquil spot – until the cocks start crowing and the cows demand to be milked in the morning that is. Get up early and make the most of Can Borrell's hearty farmhouse breakfast.

Room rates : Double €73–85; Suite for two €121–145. Breakfast is included but 7% tax is not.

Rooms to ask for : The double rooms are the best value. Can Borrell's selling point is its homely comfort, there are no luxurious upgrades to be had here; the suites just offer a little more space. Room 4 has great views.

Number of rooms : 8

Phone : 00 34 972 88 00 33

FAX : 00 34 972 88 01 44

Address : calle Retorn 3, 17539 Meranges, Gerona, Spain

Website : www.canborrell.com

Map : link to Multimap

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