An Appetite for Life

An Appetite for Life: Catalonia

You might find it hard to believe that this home is only an hour's drive from Barcelona. Wander about the six hectares of virgin forest on which this 17th-century country home sits and you'll feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Taken over by chef Sophie Ruggles in 2017, the Australian chef converted the property into an eco-friendly gastronomic travel destination in which people can hold private events, enjoy personalised culinary experiences or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the Catalonian landscape. If you're in that latter group, there are plenty of ways to do just that, whether you're paddling about in the natural pool, lounging on one of the terraces or sitting around the fire pit once darkness descends.

The home's interior leans on the region's rustic architectural traditions, as seen with the wooden ceiling beams, exposed brickwork and terracotta tiling, but is otherwise marvellously contemporary, particularly the stylish bedrooms and sleek bathrooms. There's a modern kitchen in the house in case you fancy cooking for yourself, but there's another larger space in the converted barn in which Sophie can organise cookery classes, wine tastings or private chefs.

In the surrounding region of Alt Penedès, you'll find a wealth of walking routes, quaint hilltop towns and historic castles to visit. If you're craving a day by the seaside, however, the coastal town of Sitges is only fifty minutes away by car and offers a large range of sandy spots and coves to explore.

Home truths:
*The home is spread over two floors so it might not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility
*Due to the location of this home, we recommend hiring a car to get the most out of your stay
*The home isn't suitable for children under the age of sixteen