Short break in Catalonia

Its rare for me to get the chance to revisit filming venues but sometimes the temptation is just too great. Ever since we filmed in Catalonia last May, I have been waiting for my chance to check back in to the Castell D'Emporda as a guest rather than for work. Fortunately, this is an easy one to arrange. Just wait for the Ryanair price to be right (in our case just £36 for 2 return tickets) and no excuses necessary. A 2 hour flight and 30 minute drive is all it takes to be transported to this Catalonian gem.

The images speak for themselves - enjoying the most idyllic rural setting, mid way between Gerona and the coast, this splendid 800 year old castle has been lovingly restored and extended by its Dutch owners. Located just outside La Bisbal, a quirky little town famous for its ceramics, the hotel stands at the end of quiet road in lovely Mediterranean gardens including water features, a shaded walk through the woods and a well stocked kitchen garden. The castle centres around a large open courtyard - perfect for al fresco dining - and then you go down a level to the swimming pool, surrounded by individual and double loungers.

What's so clever about the restoration is how they've managed to seamlessly combine the ancient and modern. Careful use of glass, contemporary styling and luxurious soft furnishings perfectly compliment the original features of the building and mellow ancient stone. There are rooms within the original castle but we stayed in a garden suite, in a newly constructed block sunk into the hillside with views out to the surrounding countryside. The rooms are spacious and well considered. The style is quite simple with wooden floors, neutral walls but the lavish velvet and silk soft furnishings add a real sense of luxury. The bathrooms too deserve special mention - its rare indeed to have a bath big enough for two and a view!

As everywhere in the region, the food here is excellent. In line with economic pressure I noticed the evening set menu has been pared down from a 48 euro gastronomic affair to a more affordable 29 euro, 3 course 'market menu' (plus a la carte options). Regardless, my tuna carpaccio followed by tender lamb kebabs and a heavenly strawberry and cream cheese dessert were delicious!

The hotel works hard to get creative and keep guests coming back. They are just coming to the end of highly successful Jazz concert series (held in the very funky basement bar which opens out to gardens) and are hoping to repeat that in the Autumn. And they also do well with groups - wedding parties (who can make use of the small private chapel), private parties and family gatherings.

For me, I need no other inducement to return - the Castell D'Emporda is already way up there on my list of favourite short break spots.

Click here to see our video on the Catalonia region and special offers at the hotel