Six places to get away from it all

Early in the morning, the wind caresses the treetops, creating a harmonious symphony that eventually wakes us up. We are neither at home nor at work. We are in one of the exclusive tents at Glamping Vall de Codó in Terrades, Alt Empordà, a new facility that guarantees a comfortable stay that engages all your senses. Here, a few hundred meters above sea level, on a plain beside the Shrine of La Salut, surrounded by forest and with views of the Canigó massif, it is easy to perceive the powerful force of life. That is what makes this the perfect destination to get away from it all and reconnect with yourself, a goal that is guaranteed whether you choose quiet contemplation, a walk or bike ride along the surrounding paths or one of the yoga and meditation sessions and retreats they organise here.

These kinds of activities are also offered at Clos Serra Blanca, a 17th-century farmhouse located at the foot of the Albera mountain range that has been restored with natural elegance. In addition to rural accommodation, it has more than 200 hectares dedicated to organic farming and a community farm with organic, ecological and local products. They are committed to community and healthy lifestyles, so you can do everything from mindfulness activities to show cooking or workshops that start in the garden and end at the table.

We could also add other memorable experiences to these ones. A stay at Cala Jóncols for example, the first hotel restaurant on the Costa Brava to hold Biosphere certification and one with a firm commitment to sustainability. Located in an exceptionally beautiful cove in the middle of Cape Norfeu, between Roses and Cadaqués, a few years ago the owners revived an old vineyard that had been abandoned years before as a result of a grape phylloxera infestation. Any of the activities they offer, whether at sea, in the vineyard or in the restaurant, will nourish your well-being.

In Baix Empordà there is another much sought-after seaside spot. It is Hostal Restaurant Sa Rascassa, located in a century-old summer house in Aiguafreda cove in Begur which, they assure us, has not succumbed to the excesses of tourism. People come to this small cosy hotel to escape the hustle and bustle and find a dose of calm, a quiet corner to read, a walk on the coastal path, a restorative swim, a good meal and a deep and refreshing rest. They come seeking the joy of being alive.

“A leisurely, conscious, serene and full rhythm. Animals and nature are a mirror to understand how to live the present”. This is the message on the social media account of ECOHotel Rural & Spa Can Buch in Sant Aniol de Finestres, Garrotxa, and it represents them one hundred percent. Can Buch is a farmhouse in a dream setting, rebuilt with clay, wood and stone, and completely self-sufficient. A nature reserve where you can attend a meditation retreat or swim in the natural pool, which contains neither salt nor chlorine. In 2022, they received two awards from the Terres Travel international film festival in the best audiovisual shorts in the field of hospitality category; one of these was the ‘Tourist Hosts’ Special Award.

You will also receive a warm welcome from the great team at Hotel Mas La Ferreria, another perfect place for a lively, healthy and comforting stay. This farmhouse dates back to the 14th century and has dozens of little stories waiting to be told while enjoying the best services, facilities and rooms. They are a delight! Welcoming and overlooking a garden that blends seamlessly into the surrounding meadows and the mountains of La Vall de Bianya that shelter it.