Hispanic Hygge

Hispanic Hygge: Catalonia

This gorgeous home in the tiny mountain town of Salardú shows that Spain can do chalet-style homes that are up there with the very best in Europe.

Wander about the three floors and you'll find all the hallmarks of cosiness, from faux fur throws and a fireplace to a few cushioned window ledges on which you can sit and admire the rugged scenery. While there's a definite preference for wood in the furnishings and finishes, the interior is actually a lot more contemporary than it might appear at first glance. The sleek white kitchen, for example, wouldn't look out of place in a city apartment.

The architect was clearly aware of the majesty of the surroundings as there are plenty of large windows, which also have the added benefit of bathing the interior in natural light. If you want to feel the sunshine on your skin while you gaze out at the landscape, there's a small garden with enough of a small seating set-up to enjoy a morning coffee in the open air.

When you can no longer resist the call of the snow-capped peaks, you can drive over to Baquiera in only seven minutes to catch a lift up to the slopes. If you're heading here during the warmer seasons, you're not short of hiking routes and vantage points in the surrounding Aran Valley.


Home truths:
*The home is spread over three floors with no elevator, although there are three bedrooms on the ground level
*There's parking available on the premises and guests also get a parking space at the foot of the slopes with a ski storage box
*There's ski storage available at the home, too