Mas Grau - an historic manor

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Manor House |6 bedrooms |Sleeps 18

Estanyol in Girona

From £1488 per week

Short stays welcome

Changeover flexible

Be the first to write a review

Key info  Swimming pool, beach or lakeside relaxation, balcony/terrace, car advised, private garden, may take pets - please enquire

About the home

Mas Grau is another fantastic villa offered in exclusivity by Charlie and Maria at villasbarcelona since 1998. This house is time-tested and true, and all rentals come with a full copy of our 90-page local Guidebook, so that you get the most from your holiday.

Mas Grau is one of the nicest independent vacation homes available in Catalonia (and I've been told by frequent rentors of holiday properties that it is probably one of the nicest vacation houses in Europe - see our Comments or Testimonials page). Set in lush farmlands only 7 km SE of Girona's provincial capital - a fascinating historical city - this venerable fortified farmhouse occupies an priviledged hillside position surrounded by fruit trees and woods, offering marvellous views of the Medieval village below (Estanyol), and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. Mas Grau was built in the 12th century and was the fortress of the Viscount of Cabrera. This entire area is renowned for its pristine Medieval villages, the beauty of its countryside, and the area's gastronomy - whether you eat out at a restaurant or buy local produce from nearby markets - is now rated top-notch, with four 3-star Michelin restaurants within a short drive from Mas Grau.

This magnificent fortified stone mansion, once aptly described by an 8 year old friend of my daughter's as a "museum house", is set in an spot overlooking the hamlet of Estanyol, near Girona on the Costa Brava, a safe (25 km) distance inland from the (often crowded) coast. Set on a huge private estate of over 110 hectaires, with great views out over the coastal plain, the house measures well over 1000m2, with 7 bedrooms and 5 bathsrooms, a private fenced-in 10x5 meter pool, outdoor BBQ dining area seating 15+ under old vines in the patio, & an exercise room with jacuzzi for 4.

My wife and I at villasbarcelona.com have been offering this house in exclusivity since 1998, and it has a perfect track record. The owner, Conxita, ran a luxury hotel in Barcelona for many years and understands about quality hospitality. She is the perfect hostess, graciously greeting guests upon arrival, on call 24/7 for anything guests need, and providing excellent amenities, least of which are the top-quality 100% cotten sheets. Conxita lives 8 kms away in Girona and it takes her about 10 minutes to reach the house.

Here is the detailed bedroom layout:

Ground floor:
1) Lavendar bedroom: double bed (150x190cm) with private bathroom

First floor:
2) Mimosa bedroom, double bed (150x190cm) with private bathroom
3) Margarita bedroom: double bed (150x190cm)
4) Sunflower bedroom: huge room, 45m2, with double bed (150x190cm) + with private terrace + and separate alcove with 2 single beds (80x180cm)

The tower:
5) Lilac bedroom: 3 single beds on first floor and upstairs the
6) Attic room: 2 single beds upstairs + 1 additional bed* for kids

Across the large terrace:
7) Iris bedroom: 2 double beds (130x190cm) + 1 additonal bed* for kids + a private full bathroom

* the additional beds can be moved and there are 3 cots and 3 high chairs for babies

So you see, there are in fact beds for 20 guests in 7 bedrooms, not counting the cots!

The confusion about the number of bedrooms is due to the fact that we didn´t count the upstairs attic or tower room at first, but people seem to love that room and we are now including it in the total!

Facilities

Further details indoors:
The rooms are spacious and set far apart from one another, with plenty of common rooms on each floor, two rooms with private terrace, and outside there are different outdoor sitting areas, BBQ and poolside lounge chairs.

All windows have mosquito screens.

All rooms have closet and cupboard space for your clothes, and lighting for reading, at double beds, on both sides of the bed.

When you email your request, I will send you a detailed description of each room and bathroom.

Further details outdoors:
Next to the old artisian well is the permanent barbecue grill, very easy to use, with three levels for the grill.

Outdoor patio seating for 18+ under vines, lit up for al fresco meals at night.

The unspoiled views are magnificient, and there are no houses in the immediate area surrounding Mas Grau. The owners live in a similar mansion on the other side of the hill, and are on hand if you need them.

I would be glad to send you the Google Earth link for this villa. It gives you a good idea of how huge and gorgeous this property really is! and the distances to villages and access to major roads in the area.

Please read Testimonials and Comments from Past Guests since 1998 in our website.

Further details

One house cleaning and sheet, towel and linen change per week included in the rental fee.

Swimming pool is maintained year-round, and is fenced in for child safety, but there is no life-guard.

There is an electricity counter on the jacuzzi and guests are kindly requested to pay for the electricity used for the jacuzzi apart. This is to avoid situations whereby guests leave on the jacuzzi 24 hours a day during their stay. It only takes minutes for the jacuzzi to warm up.

Other than that, there are no hidden of extra charges of any kind. To the contrary, we can arrange extra services for you, for example, such as having a food shopping at the house and ready for you upon arrival....

Conditions

General Proceedures


1) Deposits:
The standard method for making a reservation is by paying a deposit of 25%, usually directly to the owner´s bank account. This deposit is to guard against no-shows, and the amount received is deducted from the total cost of the rental. The remaining 75% is due either prepaid well ahead of your arrival or in cash upon occupying the property (you will be met at the property by the owners or caretaker).

There are many ways to make the deposit. By far the most common method is by Electronic Bank Transfer, and most of you will simply make a transfer from your online banking account, but in some cases I can make a charge on your VISA or Mastercard or you can send a Banker´s Certified Cheque directly to the owners. I describe these methods in detail in email 2 of 3 on deposits. You decide which method is best for you, or feel free to come up with your own method. European Union bank account holders will want to send bank transfers as there are now absolutely free charges and commissions between EMU countries!



2) Price all inclusive and changeover times
Rental fees quoted in our website are all-inclusive and there are no extra or hidden charges of any kind. All properties are rented clean, with plenty of clean sheets and towels and kitchen linen, etc., as well as your usual cooking utensils, and in many cases some basic start-up foodstuffs, like salt and pepper and olive oil, vinegar, coffee, etc. is there upon arrival. Some houses offer more generous welcome packages of food and drink. Those who rent for two weeks get a house cleaning and sheet and towel and linen change at the end of the first week included in the rental. Additional maid service is available upon request (usually at about 12 Euros per hour, minimum 3 hours). You are kindly requested to leave the house pretty much as you found it at the end of your stay.

There is no damage deposit. We trust you to contact me or the owners if something is broken so that we can fix or replace it before the next guests come in.

In the summer high season, most properties try to not to lose a day between rentals, and rentals are back to back, so incoming guests are kindly requested to occupy the house in the afternoon starting as of 5 pm and depart relatively early on the last day, usually before 10 am, so as to give time for a thorough cleaning between rentals. This is standard everywhere in the villa rental business. If you want to show up early, please check with me first. We can try to arrange for you to leave your things somewhere safe in the house and come back later when the cleaning crew has finished. Do not go into the house and please stay out of the way of the cleaners, gardeners, and pool maintenence staff or they might not finish their jobs! I get a lot of complaints from owners about guests who show up early and interrupt the cleaning. If you are arriving late in the day when shops are closed at 21:00h or on a Sunday, or on a holiday, I can arrange to have the owners do a shopping for you.



3) Balance due
The balance due for all rentals must be either prepaid well in advance of your rental (see email 2 of 3) or handed over in Euros cash upon arrival and getting the keys for the property from the owners. Payment at the end of the rental is not acceptable. Owners do not want to be in the position of having to chase after their guests for payment. In fact I advise owners not to hand over the keys until they have full payment.

It is up to you to make sure payment in full is made prior to arrival or be prepared to pay in cash upon arrival. Don´t leave this to the last minute as local ATM machines will not give you more 500 Euros per day, and local banks will not accept more than a few hundred Euros worth of traveller´s cheques due to massive fraud in that sector.


While you are here, house owner´s and/or their caretakers are always on hand in case you need them, as am I (Charlie). I'll be sending you an email asking for all your arrival details. Let's work together to make things go smoothly for all concerned. To a large extent, this sector of the "hospitality industry" depends on mutual trust and respect between owners and their guests. I can always be reached so feel free to call me or have the owners call me with any questions you may have, whether it be ahead of arrival, when you are with the owners, or during your stay.

Sincerely,
Charlie at villasbarcelona

Photos

 

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Aerial shot of Mas Grau

 

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The pool with village church in background

 

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Central hallway with atrium

 

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The two dining rooms

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Manor House rental accommodation in Girona

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The Costa Brava/Catalonia region

What can one say about the Costa Brava?

Often considered a blend of the Côte d'Azur & Tuscany but with a Spanish flair for fun, the Costa Brava is rightfully famous as one of Europe's premiere holiday destinations. Why?

From the breathtakingly beautiful coastline, where wide beaches of golden sand and crystal clear waters alternate with rocky promentories and little coves backed by sheer cliffs topped with pine and oak forests, the Costa Brava boasts 150 blue-flag, top notch beaches. The interior of the Costa Brava is every bit as stunning as the coast (and far less touristy, of course!), with pristine medieval villages set in typically Mediterranean landscapes on the coastal plain, looking very much like Tuscany, and quickly ascending to typically Alpine landscapes as you work your way up into the Pyrenees, with trout-filled streams feeding environmentally protected lakes - like the one in Banyoles - offering a welcome alternative to the coastal beaches, yet only half an hour away by car.

There is always plenty to do. My 90-page guidebook describes 10 routes you can take on daytrips throughout the region. From village to village and including historical sites, recommended beaches, local festivities and folklore, restaurants, market towns, etc -- the guidebook in indispensable for gettting the most of your holiday and steering you clear of the worst tourist-traps in the area. Included are info on the 14 golf courses on the Costa Brava, numerous aquaparks & go-carting circuits, and every town seems to have a horseback-riding club & bicycle rental.

... but of course the main reason for coming to this part of the world is for the good weather, the laid back and friendly local atmosphere, and the excellent and very affordable food and drink. My guidebook explains local dishes, recommends restaurants and cafés, markets and specialty shops, and includes a guide to Spanish wines and cavas. By the way, my favorite local prix fix lunch menus cost about 10 Euros for a 3 or 4 course meal, including wine.

While I am being asked to talk about the Costa Brava, most people enjoy a day trip or two to Barcelona, city center is only one hour away by car or local commuter train. Many guests will also make their way to the Port Aventura amusement park, two hours due south, just off the AP-7 highway, just a few kms from the house. Day trips into Southern France are also recommended, the French border is just a 40-minute drive due north.

When you book your rental villa with me, I will send you a copy of the Guidebook as a .pdf file.

To sum up in one quick phrase, the Province of Girona and Costa Brava is often described as "a quintessentially Mediterranean experience". After only 23 years living here, I couldn't agree more!

The Girona / Estanyol area

Again ... where to begin?!?


Mas Grau is just 8 kms from the regional capital, historic Girona, 25 kms inland from the coast, 90 kms north of Barcelona, and a short drive northwest to the Pyrenees and France.

This area is one of Europe's great playgrounds. I often jokingly refer to it as Disneyworld for adults! Whatever is of interest to you, whether it be art, archeology, folklore, sports, gastronomy, wines - you name it! - Girona has it all and in abundance. An example: the province has over 2000 Romanesque churches and chapels!

There are three 3-star Michelin rated restaurants within 25 kms of Mas Grau... but my favourite restaurants and the ones I recommend to guests in my guidebook serve prix fix menus, first dish, main dish, dessert, salad and bread and wine - all for just 10 Euros! and the food is excellent! Just try to get that anywhere else in Europe.

There are 140 registered blue-flag, top notch beaches along the coast, each cleaned and controlled by the local tourism authorities. Their website includes photos and a list of amenities at each beach. I live a 5 minute walk from the beach in Barcelona so I prefer getting away to the mountains. If you are near Girona, if you drive half an hour to the east, you reach any number of excellent beaches, but if you drive half an hour inland, you are in the low-Pyrenees, with gorgeous alpine landscapes and historic villages that have little changed in a thousand years. Oh, and the food in the mountains is even cheaper and better than on the Coast!

Skydiving is best at Empurias (40 minutes away) and hot air ballooning best at Santa Pau (also 40 minutes away).

So much for the Costa Brava as a whole. Now back to Mas Grau. This house is situated about 300 meters outside of the tiny hamlet of Estanyol, just two kilometers on the bike path to Aiguaviva (where there is an excellent little supermarket with everything, including fresh fish, butcher, and local produce), and 8 kms southwest of lovely historic Girona - a must see. The house and large grounds are completely private and you have no neighbors nearby. The pool and the tennis wall are under pine and holm oak. There are very good restaurants in the area (you can walk to an excellent restaurant and terraced café in Estanyol in minutes) and you can choose to shop in small specialty shops in nearby villages (Vilobí d'Onyar is famous for its excellent meats/butchershops), or go to the big supermarkets in the shopping malls 6 kms away outside of Girona. The house is also located only a short drive away from half a dozen quality golf courses.

My guidebook is 90 pages long and includes a village by village description of 10 of the most interesting routes on the Costa Brava, Province of Girona. It also lists restaurants, shopping, & local festivities. I describe how to check the local papers for listings of festivals in nearby villages, one of my favor passtimes when I stay in the area. Locals and visitors are often found at these fiestas eating and drinking and dancing till dawn. Along with the beautiful landscapes and the excellent & inexpensive food and drink, I really think the fun-factor is what sets the Costa Brava apart. I have received hundreds and hundreds of testimonials from past guests to our many houses over the last 15 years of doing this rental business, and if there is one word that comes up over and over, it is fun. This area is lots of FUN.

How to get there

Mas Grau - an historic manor What's nearby: Attractions Restaurants Click map icons for more information

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Mas Grau is a five minute walk to the lovely historic hamlet of Estanyol, with two restaurants, and a bike path leads 2 kms to the village of Aiguaviva, where you have several stores (butcher, baker, etc) and a supermarket. The huge supermarkets at 8 kms away, at the shopping malls at the entrance to Girona town.

- Fly to Girona Airport (15kms) with budget airlines like RyanAir, or
- Barcelona Airport (100kms) with British air or EZ Jet, or
- Perpignan Airport in France (70kms) with British Midlands and other budget operators, or
- Reus Airport near Tarragona, about 2 hours drive from the house

Info on local car hire available upon request.

The house is about 35 minutes from the French border, 70 minutes from Barcelona, and 10 minutes from Girona airports. I´d be happy to send you Google GPS coordinates and Google Earth photos for you to explore the unspoilt area on your own!

Activities near Girona

Guestbook for Mas Grau - an historic manor

----- Original Message -----
From: Sabia Morrison
Sent: Sunday, September 04, 2011 4:14 PM
Subject: RE: directions to Mas Grau for those flying in to Girona airport

Hi Charlie

We have just arrived back from a wonderful 12 days at Mas Grau - the house was amazing and we were all truly blown away with the stunning property and setting. We all thought that, actually, your website pictures and description did not do it justice and it far exceeded our expectations. Conxita was also wonderful - charming and friendly. She even cooked a stunning paella for us one evening, as well as popping round with homemade tortilla and gazpacho another night. Yesterday, as there were no incoming guests she also kindly let us stay on in the house for the day as our flights were not until later in the day - please send her our enormous thanks for her fantastic hospitality.

With best wishes
Sabia Morrison





----- Original Message -----
From: "Rob Oubridge"
Sent: Monday, August 02, 2010 3:11 AM
Subject: RE: Mas Grau

Hi Charlie

Just wanted to say that we had a great time at Mas Grau and Conxita was incredibly welcoming and helpful. We visited her restaurant 'El Batlle' and it was absolutely first class - I can't think why you don't give it a plug in your emails and guide! Thank you for all your help with our booking and our trip, we will certainly be recommended you and the property to our friends. Does Conxita have an email? We didn't see her on our leaving day and called her but no reply - we'd like to pass on our thanks.

kind regards
Rob Oubridge
Managing Director-
Aqueduct



----- Original Message -----
From: ROBERT BROWN
Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2009 9:31 PM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau - The Browns

Hi Charlie,

Our family had a terrific time in Catelonia, with Mas Grau as our base. Our group, originally to be twelve, ended up at eight as my youngest son and family were not able to come at the last moment. Needless to say, we had more than enough space for eight (or twelve for that matter)! The house is amazing - many rooms, many places to eat (kitchen, TV room, dining room, outside terrace), a beautiful pool, a short walk (relatively) to town. The location, in the countryside but close to larger cities such as Girona and to the sea, was perfect. The local grocery with a real butcher fit the bill - we never did get to the larger grocery stores. We toured in every direction from Mas Grau. Our interest in art was filled with Dali, our interest in food was filled at a number of really good restaurants and at home on the BBQ, our interest in scenery was filled everywhere, our interest in relaxation was filled at a number of beaches. We had two weeks of perfect weather - in the mid-20s to the low 30s. We were fortunate to see the Tour de France as it went past St. Feliu at an amazing speed.

I hope this email finds you well. Please say "hi" to Conxita and her sister.
Cheers! Bob
P.S. You can use this email as you wish. ----- Original Message -----
From: Scott Kollins
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 1:34 PM
Subject: Mas Grau comments

Hi Charlie-

We are back from our vacation at Mas Grau and I wanted to write with some comments. Overall, it was absolutely fantastic. We were travelling with 4 couples, one of which had a 7-month old infant. With this size group, we were all able to have our own room and bath. Everyone found the house to be charming and more than adequate for our needs. The house itself and the property are so interesting and lovely, a lot of us spent time just walking around and admiring the scenery. Six of our 8 adults were also there to do some cycling and Mas Grau was an excellent starting point for a number of good rides.

One of the highlights of the trip was the food prepared by Lee Pennington. Charlie, thanks so much for this recommendation. Lee cooked for us for 5 of our 6 nights and the food was incredible. He spoiled us and we were already saying that when e go to Italy next year, we may need to get Lee his own room so he can stay and cook for us. His services are worth far more than what he charges.

All in all, it was a splendid vacation and I appreciate how easy you made everything. Aside from my cell phone not working very well, things went incredibly smoothly. Mas Grau will hold a special place in our hearts.

Best,
Scott Kollins
North Carolina, USA



----- Original Message -----
From: "Myrna Sayers"
Sent: Thursday, August 07, 2008 3:19 PM
Subject: Mas Grau

Hi Charlie - we got back, from nearly 5 weeks away, on Monday evening. Thank you for the information that you sent to me on 11th July.

The house was very well equipped with nice linen and towels - and a generous supply of both. Conxita told us to make ourselves completely at home and use everything. All the beds had been made up - more than we needed - but as you know, there were thirteen of us and it was good to have such flexibility.

I haven't asked my family if they have any comments to add - we all had such a great time. I know that one huge plus - with small children around (we had four aged between 2 and 4) was the big, secure courtyard.

We are seeing some friends this evening who are very interested in renting Mas Grau next year - so I will show them your website.

Let me know if you want any further input - it will only be good! Regards - Myrna



----- Original Message -----
From: "ClaireHenderson"
Sent: Monday, October 22, 2007 12:48 PM
Subject: feedback

Hi Charlie,

Just to let you know we had a super time in Mas Grau and Conxita was so helpful. Hertz had provided a car with no petrol so she kindly led us to the petrol station on the first day. That could have been tricky!

The house was wonderful and we really enjoyed the sense of history. If I had any suggestions, it would be a large electric kettle and teapot. Well, we are English!!!! The quality of the sheets and towels was great.

One restaurant I would really recommend is Restaurant Bonay in Peratallada where we had excellent Pollastre amb samfaina, and Vedella amb bolets. We took your information with us everywhere and it became known as Charlie's bible. When we were planning an outing someone would say 'What does Charlie say about it?' It was much appreciated.

All in all, a lovely holiday. Thank you very much. I hope Conxita's father is recovering.

Regards,
Claire Henderson



---- Original Message -----
From: Joan Wright
Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 12:40 AM
Subject: RE: Wright reservations for Mas Grau September 29 through October 8

Charlie,

We had a wonderful time at the villa.
There was enough room for all 5 couples to relax and enjoy ourselves.
We met Conxita and she was charming.
Lee Pennington was wonderful.
He cooked fabulous meals and he was very helpful about the area and great restaurants.
The area is lovely and we took many daytrips.
Your book was very helpful.
Especially with directions into Barcelona.
Thanks for all your help.
Regards,
Joan Wright



----- Original Message -----
From: Paul Daly
Sent: Tuesday, August 09, 2005 6:30 PM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau July 30 to Aug 20, 2005

Hi Charlie

Everything is great at Mas Grau. No problems whatsoever. What is the booking situation for the equivalent weeks next year?

I will check my e mails next week or you can give me a call please on ...
Thanks
Paul



----- Original Message -----
From: HOPE RAYMOND
Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2005 6:37 AM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau - June 30 to July 14, 2005 - how was it?

Hi, Charlie,

How nice to hear from you!

We all loved Mas Grau--everything about it! Even my grandkids, who might have seen it as "too old" thought it was "really cool". And, as I had expected, they made good use of the beautiful pool for hours every day. In fact, they loved being there so much, it was hard to get them organized to go sightseeing.

One thing that especially impressed me--and which I had not heard from other visitors there--was how magnificently the house is laid out for fifteen people. And the rooms were all tastefully and appropriately decorated for the age and style of the home. Privacy was never a problem, nor was the noise level (even with 8 busy grandchildren). The only time I was ever aware of how many of us there were was at dinnertime when we all ate together in the dining room. But even then there was space at one of the tables for everyone, so it didn't feel crowded.

Something that bothered my children (more than me) was the laundry facilities. Though they were certainly adequate under ordinary circumstances, we had lots of children's clothes to be washed, so at least one load of laundry was always waiting to be washed.

The one drawback was that Mas Grau set such a high standard, I will never be able to rent another vacation home that will match up!

Best to you!
Hope Raymond



----- Original Message -----
From: Clive Coverson
Sent: Saturday, September 24, 2005 5:35 AM
Subject: RE: Mas Grau in June, how was it?

Charlie

Property was fine - we had a great week

Thanks and regards
Clive


Go back to Mas Grau


----- Original Message -----
From: Katrin Komm
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2004 1:03 AM
Subject: RE: Mas Grau - how was it?

Hello Charlie,

We had an absolute wonderful and unforgettable stay at Mas Grau. This place truly is a dream come true and it would be the ideal backdrop for the adaptation of some romantic novel. It has been one of the most wonderful and relaxing vacations ever. The house itself with its thick walls has so much charme and character, it really takes you back in time. The surrounding landscape is a feast for your eyes. Just sitting outside and letting your eyes wonder was a treat. The view was just as spectacular during the night with a starfilled sky. We also tried the restaurant in the village a couple of times and enjoyed the food quite a bit. One of our most favorite places in the area was Begur. It is so charming. Our favorite beach was La Fosca, we went there many times. A walk (in both directions along the coast) presents you with some wonderful views. Attached two of my favorite fotos of this truly stunning place.

Best wishes
The Komm Family

----- Original Message -----
From: clarke family
Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2004 10:14 PM
Subject: Mas Grau August 2004

Hi Charlie,

I can tell you we had a SUPERB time at Mas Grau. We had a truly international group of English,Irish,American and Canadians and all loved the villa. It's location and views and peace were wonderful. One needn't have strayed away from the villa,gardens and pool for the whole 2 weeks but of course we wanted to explore the area. We had an entertaining evening in the Hostal D'Estaniol where the proprietor was very welcoming and accommodating and " mimed " the menu for us as none of our group spoke Spanish well. (We talked French to Conxita's Father as he had no English and we only poor Spanish!).

The teenagers fought over the attic room and with fans and the windows and drapes closed during the day it was more than comfortable. The villa acommodated our, at 1 time , group of 15 more than easily! My brother and his family of 4 did not want to move on after the first week as they were having such a good time!

We found the coast too crowded for the time of year but loved the inland areas such as Besalu and Pals but didn't venture as far as the Pyrennees. We were just too happy at Mas Grau!

One gripe however was that the kitchen was not well served for a large group. The oven was temperamental and only 2 of the 4 stove rings worked and the kettle did not work. The Bar-B-Q was lovely though.

All in all I would wholeheartedly recommend Mas Grau as a great holiday destination.
(sorry for rambling on)
Oonagh Clarke



----- Original Message -----
From: elliedunn
Sent: Tuesday, October 19, 2004 10:09 PM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau

Hi Charlie--We had a grand time at Mas Grau--Yes, we did meet up with Colleen, family and friends--They came to Mas Gras for a wonderful dinner prepared by Jools. Memorable----- We enjoyed dinners at the restaurant behind the church--and several restaurants in Gerona--Many thanks for your help

--Sincerely,
Ellie Dunn



----- Original Message -----
From: Sherry
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2004 2:29 AM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau, how was it?

Dear Charlie:

I am sorry that I didn't write to you sooner, because I wanted to tell you how much we loved the house and the location. Conxita was a fabulous hostess..staying around just long enough to give us a thorough introduction to the house and responding immediately to our every need and request, but otherwise leaving us with the run of the property. There was ample room, the pool was spotless with a beautiful view, and the house has been beautifully restored. Our only minor complaint was the heat at night, but we bought several additional fans and that helped enormously. There is no longer a garden at the house, so you should delete that from your information on Mas Grau. Everything else lived up to and surpassed our highest expectations.

A few things that I haven't seen mentioned in your packet (which was extremely helpful, by the way) or in the other comments....we like to run and walk for exercise, and there is a beautiful bike/walking trail through Bescano. One can walk all the way to Banyoles and beyond! We never went that far, but the trail takes you through quaint farmland, by a lovely stream and through beautiful groves of trees. There is a brand new supermarket in Bescano, and we found that very helpful for stocking up on staples.

On my niece's birtrhday, we staged an elaborate scavenger hunt through the house and into Bescano. The townspeople were so cooperative and fun, and we involved everyone from the woman at the heladeria to the people in the bar on the plaza to the woman who owns the candy shop.

Do NOT try the riding stables on the way into Bescano. The horses were a bit wild, and the owner just sent out children off on steep, narrow paths with no helmets and no guidance. In other words, this is only for the strong hearted, experienced rider.

We would all love to go back to Mas Grau. We had many a wonderful family dinner around the big dining room table, and the sunsets in the afternoon were unforgettable.

Thank you so much for helping us to rent this wonderful place!
Sherry
(P.S. It is absolutely fine to use whatever portion of my comments you wish on the website)



----- Original Message -----
From: Dan Gattis
Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2003 5:06 PM
Subject: Mas Grau Stay

Hi, Charlie. Sorry to be so late with comments on our trip to Mas Grau in late July/early August...the midst of the heat wave. What a great place to stay!

The house was most comfortable for our group. Friends from Atlanta had the ground floor suite; my kids had the two front rooms on the 1st floor and shared the bath off the east room; my suegra had the small en suite room in the rear off the stairs; Val and I had the master across the way. The dark room in the rear and the upstairs attic were unused since our friends from London had to miss the trip. That's an especially dark room and, with the heat, it was way too hot due to lack of windows and circulation. Just as well they had to cancel. The rest of the house was reasonably comfortable for the rest of us since we're all from the South. We're used to heat and humidity so it wasn't a big deal. We did have to go out and purchase additional fans which we left as a gift to the house. With the fans and adequate mosquito repellant, we were just fine after the sun went down and the house cooled. Sr. Feliu came up to the house a couple of times to check in on us and his daughter and son-in-law were up from Barcelona the middle weekend. I enjoyed meeting the "Don" and chatting with him on a range of topic including his view of driving regulations. Didn't know he was a race driver in his youth. Quite a guy. He also kept apologizing for the heat wave as though it were something he could control.
Charlie adds (making excuses): the summmer of 2003 was the hottest on record just about everywhere in Europe!

We moved the dining room table out to the "patio" since we were a party of 11 and spent our midday, cocktail hour, and dinner (when we ate in) outside. The grape vine over the patio provided protection from the sun and a lovely setting. We used the outdoor grill a couple of times and stocked the laundry room 'fridge with the overflow of beverages. The swimming pool was most welcome given the heat, although one had to go early or late as midday was insufferable. I ran each day in the early morning, as did Val and my daughter Rayme and her friend Pam, past Sr. Feliu's house, out to the main road, and right up over the hill toward Anglés for a total of about 14 km. It was important to start early and the trip back downhill was the best part. We played tennis a couple of times, but there always seemed to be other things to do. All in all, I'd go back to Mas Grau in a heartbeat.

We did get into Girona a couple of times for some sightseeing and meals, but we left that mainly to the kids (I say "kids" but they're in their 30s) who went in several times including evenings to some dance clubs. We did find the Supermercado in Anglés the best place to buy food (also open on Sunday) and table wine. There's also a bike shop that had some necessary repair equipment for Val's bike.

One question...I noticed a couple of modern looking houses on the right as you go up over the hill to intesect the road to Anglés. Are they for rent?

Tried to rent a plane at the Girona airport, but the rental Cessna 172's owner was on holiday. Too bad. It looked like it would have been fun to see the area from a couple thousand meters.

We spent most of our time in the immediate environs. We ate at the Hostal de Estanyol in town a couple of times...handy, but nothing special,except for the escargot they served our first night. We did especially enjoy a leisurly Sunday lunch at Mas Casilda in Bescanó. A couple of others were Cal Ros in Girona and Hostal Can Xabanet in Banyoles. Also had a delightful lunch at Les Ostres in Barcelona just down the block from the Hotel Claris where we spent the night before our departure. Had dinner atop the hotel and found it a lovely venue with OK food. One note for American martini drinkers...order a "Vodkatini" if you want Vodka. Saying Vodka martini doesn't seem to get it even in BCN.

Most money spent was in Cadaqués where my wife and daughter found an especially compelling ladies dress shop..Boutique Pepa. They had a sale in progress and we came away with what the ladies described as "incredible bargins." I suppose it depends one's perspective. It was a beautiful location and an enjoyable drive from the Mas. The kids went to Sant Feliu de Guíxols (I think) a couple of times and we went over to join them for lunch and a little beach time. It was the town at the end of that spectacular drive you recommended that hugs the coast for about 40 km.

Your guidebook was a godsend. My kids and mother-in-law would pore over the guide each day and plan their travels for the next. Your restaurant suggestions were very helpful and we appreciated your candor in noting the not-so-good places to go and things to do. My mother-in-law kept a detailed diary of each day that I look forward to reading when she's here for Christmas.

Trust you've adjusted to fatherhood and are getting a bit of sleep these days. Hope your family is well and happy. I look forward to working with you again. Perhaps next time we can meet in person.

Best regards....Dan
Daniel Gattis
Chief Executive Officer
The Richard Harrington Company



----- Original Message -----
From: Pete Schueller
Sent: Wednesday, January 29, 2003 11:44 AM
Subject: Fabulous time at Mas Grau!

Hi Charlie,

Just a quick note to THANK YOU so very much for helping us arrange our vacation in Spain. The fact that we could trust a person and a website over the internet says a lot for trust in mankind, as we traveled 13 hours by car from Belgium and the rest of the family arrived by plane from the US, all based on a dozen email exchanges. I have already countlessly recommended your website & guide book info to many friends around the world. (Do you have a site like this for Italy, too???) Mas Grau was the most amazing and magical place we have seen so far. Very rustic in the heart of Spanish countryside, yet equipped with all the comforts of home - 3 ovens, stovetop - gas & elec, microwave, dishwasher, washer & dryer, what else could we need?. We grilled over the wood fire several nights and sat around it almost every night. We felt quite safe after we would "batten down the hatches" at night. The pool was quite chilly for the weather we had, but would have been perfect on a really scorching day.

Please give our regards to Conxita. She's a lovely person and said some wonderfully profound words to us... something to the effect that "we are all here for a brief time. "Some parts of thishouse have been around for 900 years, long before us, and will be here long after we are gone." She welcomed us back in the future and hoped that one day our children may someday return to this house.

A huge thanks also to Jo G. for helping the guys arrange everything for golf! They had spectacular views on the Mediterranean and some amazing golf at PGA Catalunya. He was so kind to meet us in Barcelona to give a map of directions and some other recommendations.

Thank you again,

The Schueller Family from near and far.

Attached is a picture of us all sitting around the fire on the terrace at Mas Grau.


Go back to Mas Grau


----- Original Message -----
From: O'Loghlin, Peter
Sent: Monday, December 01, 2003 5:33 PM
Subject: RE: Reservation Request

Charlie,

How are you keeping ....great to hear from you. ( a man indeed not too far from my thoughts at present on next years holidays...see below. ).

I must confess to being greatly embarassed by your mail..no - not your request ( delighted to assist )...but for the fact that there is a faded post-it note on my desk since I came home, simply titled ' mail to Charlie Williams ' !!!! Well now I have the opportunity. Give me a couple of days and I'll get a reply to you. I can honestly tell you it was one of the best holidays that we had and I would heartily recommend both your site and the location. We met with Conxita on the day we left and she gave us the tour of Mas Roca and it too is breautiful ( had not realised she owned both....handy catch there for some fella what !!! )

On another matter ...we are considering returning next year....

Sincere best wishes
Peter



----- Original Message -----
From: Phil George
Sent: Tuesday, September 03, 2002 9:44 PM
Subject: Mas Grau

Hi Charlie

I hope you had an enjoyable time in Galicia. Just a quick line to say how much we loved Mas Grau. The house was a delight, the setting idyllic and yet beautifully positioned for Girona (which is fast becoming one of my favourite places in the World.)

So thanks so much for pointing me in the direction of this lovely home. I have referred and recommended a couple of colleagues to you. Mark Anderson who I believe is interested in Can Cunill and Liz and Bob Ogilvie. Mark may already be in touch. Liz will shortly.

As for us I am not sure what our plans hold for next year. I would dearly love to return but am not sure who we will be vacationing with. Jacqui and I are seriously contemplating maybe buying a property in the area (Not, unfortunately on the scale of Mas Grau) so who knows?

All the very best
Phil


From: Tom Wolden
Sent: Thursday, October 10, 2002 3:57 PM
Subject: Next summer

Hi Charles

I'm sorry I haven't sent you some comments to our stay in Mas Grau last year. But I can assure you that we all enjoyed the stay very much. It was exactly what we were after, the silence during the evenings, BBQ under the grapes with some good sea food, the atmosphere of the area and the house and the climate. We also appreciate your help and the fact that everything went so smoothly from our first contact with you, until departure.

We (the same people as went to Mas Grau) would like to go to Spain again next summer and again I would like you to look into the possibilities for us.

Number of people: 6 adults and 7 kids (8 - 15years)
Period: July, first half preferably. 14 days.
Area: the house and the surroundings plus swimming pool plays a major role. Short distance to a small picturesque village with some good food available would be a plus. Distance to the sea is secondary, but not more that 30min. (Unless you have some good deals)
Best Regards
Tom Wolden


----- Original Message -----
From: Marie Allan
Sent: Sunday, July 21, 2002 11:16 PM
Subject: Mas Grau

Hello Charlie

Finally got round to letting you know how the holiday went!

First of all I was totally unprepared for how lovely the surrounding countryside is and the house is just amazing. Conxita told me some of its history which made my day.

Mas Grau is a wonderful house in a most beautiful setting with superb views to the mountains. Everyone was extremely comfortable and enjoyed the total privacy and the peace and quiet. The pool area was very popular but my favourite place was sitting in the courtyard under the vine. I could have sat there for another month at least. The parking area for two cars became the boules court and the kids all found loads of places to play Hide and Seek and ball games in the evenings. We all loved it.

I've attached a letter which I shall be grateful if you will pass to Conxita and I've mentioned that we thought we could have done with some more outside seating and/or sun loungers. We folk from the northern climes of Scotland (why did she think we came from Manchester?) love to sit outside at the slightest hint of sunshine! In fact, we were only indoors to eat and sleep and during the spectacular thunder and lightning on our last night when we lost the electricity.

We never did find the vegetable garden nor the shop in Estanyol but nobody cared anyway.

This was a fantastic holiday made even more enjoyable by your own care and attention before the event and by the relaxed and friendly attitude of Conxita especially and her father. The services of Catalan Tourism Net is absolutely first class and will be recommended to all my friends. Thank you all so much and I look forward to doing business with you again soon.

I leave you to edit this as you see fit.

Best regards and thank you again.
Marie

Go back to Mas Grau


----- Original Message -----
From: Ian James
Sent: Sunday, July 21, 2002 11:08 PM
Subject: Mas Grau, June 3 to 10, 2002

Hi Charlie,

We all had a fabulous time and the villa was superb. We may be back again one day...

The only thing I'd say is that the directions for getting to Mas Grau could possibly be better - we had several confused conversations with some locals (our Spanish was worse than their English) as a result :-)

We would definitely recommend it to anyone thinking of going.

Thanks and all the best
Ian James.



----- Original Message -----
From: dnr harris
Sent: Monday, October 22, 2001 2:05 AM
Subject: Mas Grau (17 Sept to 18 Oct, 2001) Dear Charlie, We returned safely to the USA, and now that we've unpacked, well, sort of...we want you to hear our happy feedback.

Mas Grau surpassed our pre-trip expectations, which were high to begin with. "Spacious", "comfortable", clean", "beautifully laid out and furnished", and "commanding a lovely vista of the rural countryside" are some of the descriptors that come to mind. We also learned that this lovely old fortified farmhouse is strategically located so as to enable us to explore Catalunya from sea to mountains in comfortably doable day trips.

We fell in love with Mas Grau from the first time we spied it from St. Andreu's in the little village of Estanyol. Our month's stay was pure joy. Our only sadness was saying goodbye to Mas Grau as we drove down the dirt road through the little grove of cork trees on our last day.

A large part of our joy there was getting to know Conxita, who has made "landlady" one of the most beautiful words in the English language, and her charming "Papa", Don Manuel. They took us into their home and their hearts with unsurpassed warmth and generosity.

We must also cite here another "Charlie"---"Charlie El Gato" (not your namesake, we've been assured), Senior Cendra's acrobatic cat. (You must ask Don Manuel to put Charlie through his paces, if you've never seen Charlie's big act.) What's more, Charlie can count,...well, at least to tres.

And speaking of numbers, for the record there are 4 not 5 bathrooms at Mas Grau. This proved no inconvenience to us as things turned out. Only 5 of the people we had invited showed up. Illness stopped some; others were gripped by an icy fear of travel after the disaster of September 11th. Those who managed to get there loved Mas Grau and Catalunya.

Your guidebook was a huge help. I had resolved to edit and update it for you, but was having so much fun, I never got around to it. Rest assured, any of my suggestions for changes would have been small.

Thank you for all you did to make our stay so pleasant.

Anyone looking for a magnificent vacation rental in the heart of Catalunya will find Mas Grau just the place.

Consider this letter an unqualified and enthusiastic endorsement of Mas Grau. You may quote us as you wish.

Sincerely,
David and Ruth Harris


----- Original Message -----
From: Cait McCarthy
Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2001 7:29 PM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau, 26/8 - 2/9/01

Dear Mr. Williams,

Thank you for your recent e-mail.I am happy to tell you our week in Mas Grau is one my daughters and I will long remember. As we approached the house we wondered if that could possibly the one for us, and we were absolutely delighted to discover it was indeed. The house is really lovely, so spacious and everything one could wish for.

We dined out in the restaurants you mentioned and had no complaints. The house is in such a lovely setting I was happy to sit and relax, but the younger folk were on the move. We toured quite a lot but would have needed more time to see more of the area.

I wish to mention in particular our last night there when two local women came in to cook our supper, and it was a splendid meal. Cooked with such good humour and under difficult conditions as there was a thunderstorm which left us in the dark for quite a while.Their attention to detail was superb, and we all enjoyed the meal very much.
We could recommend them to anyone.

Thanking you for making the hol. possible, and wishing you continued success in the future.
Cait McCarthy
Dublin
Ireland


----- Original Message -----
From: Elebert
Sent: Sunday, October 14, 2001 3:35 AM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau, 26/8 - 2/9/01

Hi Charlie. My name is Catherine & I was there with the Vaughan party this Aug. I'm sorry but I had no idea that there was a comment book. otherwise I would have written about how wonderful the house was. I traveled over from Ireland to be with my cousin Patricia Vaughan, who organised the whole thing. I have just a few things to say about Mas Grau. It was just wonderful, a very beautiful setting, very clean, & so full of character, that I really didn't want to leave. I have spoken to many people about it since I came home & have already passed on the web site address to them. One friend in particular is organising for a group to go there next Sep. So as for my opinion "It was wonderful, a must for a family gathering. I really hope to return there very soon"

Yours Catherine Elebert


Go back to Mas Grau

----- Original Message -----
From:Doug Mitchell
Sent: Saturday, October 13, 2001 5:42 PM
Subject: Re: Mas Grau

Charles -

Thanks for reminding me to comment. I intended to send a note weeks ago, and forgot.

Mas Grau was great! Our group of 11 adults liked instantly the 'feel' of the ancient and massive stone construction, and appreciated the space and privacy afforded by the layout of the villa. The kitchen, dining room, and vine-shaded 'courtyard' at the main entrance served us well at the beginning and end of each day.

The location was perfect: a marvelous view over the countryside, and very easy access to Girona, Barcelona, medieval towns and sites, seaside villages of the Costa Brava, the lower Pyrenees. I don't believe we have ever had a better location from which to enjoy such disparate daily interests. We put a lot of kms on the autos, yet were never far from Mas Grau.

Our only disappointment was that the week passed far too quickly; we should have booked a two-week stay. We don't often return to the same place for our villa rentals; we think, however, Mas Grau will be the perfect site for a family reunion in a couple of years.

The restaurant Hostal d'Estanyol was fine. There we had a first-night group dinner, with the owners selecting the menu, from appetizers through dessert. It was priced very moderately and a great start for our holiday.

Charles, I have a favor to ask, regarding Hostal d'Estanyol. I paid 34,875 ESP with a credit card. However, I have never seen the billing come through on the credit card statement. Therefore, it appears Hostal d'Estanyol was never paid by the credit card company. If true, I want to get payment to them. When you have the opportunity, please check with Hostal d'Estanyol, and advise me. (Date was 28 May. Billed amount = 31,875. Added 3,000 tip.)

Best regards,
Doug Mitchell

----- Original Message -----
From: paul+jayne
Sent: Monday, September 18, 2000 1:43 PM
Subject: Thank you

Dear Mr. Williams,
This is just a short note to say thank you for all of your help and to let you know how much we enjoyed our stay at Mas Grau. We have included an attachment which we hope you will pass onto Conxita and her father.
Once again thank you, and if you collect guest comments we would wholeheartedly recommend Mas Grau as a beautiful and peaceful place to stay, whilst being close to so many places of interest and beauty.

Yours Paul and Jayne Kennedy. -----Original Message-----
De: Spiegler, Howard N. and Jayne Cohen of New York (her cookbook published by Scribner)
Fecha: martes 14 de septiembre de 1999 0:28
Asunto: Mas Grau

Sorry I haven't written sooner but things were a bit hectic after we got back. I just wanted to let you know that Mas Grau was wonderful as was Conxita. It was the nicest house we have ever rented anywhere in the world! The area was terrific, especially Girona and one of the small beaches you recommended on the Costa Brava. Your guidebook is extremely detailed and was very helpful. My wife studied it more carefully than I and has a few comments that I will pass on soon.
... thanks for everything. I've already started recommending you to friends. And I hope we will back in Catalonia very soon.
Howard Spiegler and Jayne Cohen
Go back to Mas Grau

----- Original Message -----
From: Sadler & Whitehead Architects
Sent: Saturday, July 22, 2000 1:12 AM
Subject: Re: Mailing address for Mas Grau?

Dear Charlie

This is a quick note to you to say what a wonderful time we had at Mas Grau. We could not have been happier. The house was perfect for us. The pleasure of seeing and chatting with Sr. Cendra (or is he addressed as Sr. Feliu de Cendra?) every day was a rich pleasure. The fresh lettuce filled our nightly salads.

Your guide book doesn't mention either the Hostal d'Estanyol or the Mas Casilda (in Bescano, just over the hill from Mas Grau), but both provided excellent meals at very reasonable prices. Once we got to know Alphonz (at Hostal d'Estanyol) he arranged for my daughter to get her hair dyed in Girona and he took us to tour the stables of Andalusian stallions where his horse is trained. Sr. Cendra took us on a tour of the Modernista house in Angles where he and his children were born. He also arranged for a house call from a local family physician when my son was laid low with the flu (I haven't had a house call from a doctor in 40 years....and I'm 45). His hospitality was extraordinary.

I'm sorry we didn't have a chance to meet you. Thank you for your thoughtfulness in stopping by the Mas Grau (we were visiting Barcelona; staying in Conxita's hotel). Having your guidebook for the last few days was very helpful AND entertaining. The menu descriptions were especially useful. We'd like you to know that the Fortress in Hostalric is closed on Tuesdays (rats!!).

We hope we will be returning (if possible) to Mas Grau either next summer or the following summer; we can't conceive of not staying there again. I look forward to contacting you to secure those future reservations. I hope all is going well with your business and that you are prospering during the height of the summer season.

Gratefully yours,
Mimi & Camden
-----Original Message-----
De: Dagfinn Nygaard (Norway)
Fecha: miércoles 4 de agosto de 1999 19:37
Asunto: Grateful for Mas Grau

Charles!
We had a marvellous stay at Mas Grau, it was indeed a nice place to stay! Great house, bedrooms, living rooms and all + nice restaurant(s) next door (almost), decent distance to sea and everything else, what more could you ask than for nice weather and that is safe thing in Spain - when it not rains on the plain.
We also all appreciated the warm welcom of Conxitha and "Papa" - we found them both very nice. Conxitha asked her to visit, but you know 2 weeks passes too fast. We also had hoped to say a proper good bye to Papa, but left early in the morning and did not get around to do that. Would you give them both our best regards?
I was also sorry not meet you, when you came by. Thanks for the loan of your guide book, I trust that Papa has returned that to you.
At some point of time, we will return
Dagfinn N.
-----Original Message-----
De: Robert Ballantyne (U.K.)
Fecha: lunes 16 de agosto de 1999 0:30
Asunto: Re: Mas Grau

Just a quick note to say that we thought Mas Grau was great - amazing building in a superb position. We really enjoyed our time there. Conxita and her father were very pleasant and helpful - thanks to them.
We were sorry to leave and hope to return someday.
Yes got the guidebook - found it very useful.
regards
Rob
-----Original Message-----
De: Kwa, BooTion (Hong Kong)
Fecha: martes 31 de agosto de 1999 6:26
Asunto: Thanks for Mas Grau
Just a short note to say that we thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Mas Grau in July. The owners were charming and the property was wonderful, albeit a little large for us. Still, it was nice to be away from the crowds and to have the little village below with its excellent restaurant. We plan to come back next year, and would like to look for a similar type farmhouse--though one smaller and thus easier to keep clean. Many thanks for your help. We'll look up your website later to try to book something much further in advance than we actually managed to do this year.
Cheers,
Tion Kwa


-----Original Message-----
De: Erik Aapkes (Dutch living in Canary Islands)
Fecha: viernes 13 de noviembre de 1998 20:47

Dear Charles,
First of all my apologies for reacting that late. Hope your doing well, we still remember with pleasure the beautiful days we´ve spent in Mas Grau. No problem if you give your contact my E-mail adress and I´ll give them positive information about your services. You can bet on it.
With kind regards,
Erik
-----Original Message-----
De: Keim, Jennifer (Atlanta, GA.)
Fecha: lunes 5 de abril de 1999 16:38
Asunto: Moltes gracies!

Charlie -- we made it! Sorry we missed your call on Thursday. We were wandering the streets around the Cathedral & got back to the room at 10:15. We really enjoyed Mas Grau. The landscapes are beautiful (much greener than here at this time of year). I was surprised to find Girona so hilly! ... Here's an abreviated outline (excuse the butchered spelling & improper puctuation!):

Friday - Arrived in Barcelona -- Drove to Mas Grau Saturday - Explored grounds around Mas Grau; Roger's family came & prepared dinar (paella with black rice); Explored "old Girona" (Jewish Ghetto; Cathedral)
Sunday - Visited family farm in Sant Marti Sacalm (spectacular views)
Monday - Drove to France (to say we did it) -- Palau dels Reis de Mallorca; Back to San Pere de Roda (closed); climbed to Castelle de San Salvador (nerve wracking with a 4 year old who has no fear); visited El Port de la Salva (found a playground on the beach for the kids)
Tuesday - Visited Empuries, then L'Escala, Begur & Peratallaba
Wednesday - Lunch at Castell Follit de la Roca; then Olat & Volca Santa Margarita; watched Els Manaies in Girona
Thursday - Shopping & lunch in Girona; drove to Barcelona (no problem finding the Gutenburg, however it took 20 minutes to get our big, American van down the ramp & into the underground parking garage!)
Friday - Barcelona - Sagrada Familia, Casa Ballo, Casa Mila, Cathedral, Placa del Rei, Placa de Sant Felip Neri, Las Rambles
Saturday - Departure (only took 10 minutes to get the van out of the parking garage!)
Overall, we were impressed by how old everything is (nothing here is more than 300 years old), and I missed my Diet Coke (I don't drink coffee, I'm a Diet Coke for breakfast girl!). I guess the fat-free, low-calorie obsession isn't the same there.

I would definitely go back (without kids?). Although we appreciated the location of the Gutenburg (walking-distance to many things & a Metro stop right outside), we wished we had been able to stay at Mas Grau the entire time. The kids needed a "decompression" day -- we kept them going for too long. They just wanted to "hang out" & play but we didn't have time. By the time we got to Barcelona, neither of them wanted to walk anymore. And we did find some "colorful" people at the little grocery store around the corner from the hotel, but it just reminded us of the Tender Loin district in San Francisco. 
Go back to Mas Grau

I'm anxious to do more research on-line (now that I have some small basis of knowledge). 
Gracies per la seva ajuda. Li estic molt agrait. 

Rental prices

Prices for group size 18
Period	From	To	Weekly	Nightly rate		Minimum  stay
				Weekday	Weekend
Christmas and Easter	23 Dec 11	4 Jan 12	2255€ 2255	0-	0-	1 Week
Low season	4 Jan 12	20 May 12	1785€ 1785	0-	0-	1 Week
Mid season	20 May 12	24 Jun 12	2255€ 2255	0-	0-	1 Week
High season	24 Jun 12	1 Sep 12	2520€ 2520	0-	0-	1 Week
Mid season	1 Sep 12	1 Oct 12	2255€ 2255	0-	0-	1 Week
Low season	1 Oct 12	23 Dec 12	1785€ 1785	0-	0-	1 Week

NB: Prices may be subject to change at the advertiser's discretion.

We like to have a day between rentals to properly clean and air out this huge house, so flexible changeover days all year round.

I repeat, this is not a Friday to Friday or Saturday to Saturday rental. You can come in any day you like and pay only for the nights you stay!

Prices are all inclusive and there are no extra or hidden charges whatsoever.

Low-season weekend rates: 825 Euros (2 nights) + 200 Euros per extra night.

Availability

See below for next 9 months' availability - to see the next 24 months click here

Contact the manager

* Required fields Please check the following errors: First name * Last name * Email *   Did you mean ""? Yes / No Phone number Arrival date Departure date   Ignore calendar - enquire anway No. of adults No. of children Message * Email me special offers and holiday ideas T&Cs

8 years listed You are contacting Charlie And Maria Williams Villas Barcelona (property manager) Landline +34 93 268 2300 Mobile +34 656 364 960 Payment accepted Credit cards accepted Languages spoken The property manager is based in Spain and has advertised with Holiday Lettings since 2003. This manor house has so far received 0 reviews.

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