Four rural houses for a sustainable break

What do you look for in a rural house? A natural setting? Somewhere comfortable? A place where you can switch off? With a fireplace or a spa? If your answer to any of these questions is “Yes!”, you’ve come to the right place. What’s more, we can recommend some rural houses that, in addition to all of this, are fully sustainable, with a net-zero (or close to net-zero) energy footprint, so you’ll be looking after the environment during your stay as well. Now all you have to do is pick one!

 

 

All these houses have two things in common. The first is that they hold the Biosphere seal, a certificate that guarantees the place you visit is sustainable. The second is that each house is a project backed by people who believe it’s possible to live differently. These individuals strive daily to create sustainable tourism that doesn’t negatively impact the villages, towns, mountains and landscapes you love to visit. They love what they do and where they live, and they do their part to change the world. You too can do your part by choosing them.

1. Masia Spa Can Pascol

A small rural house dating back to 1800, nestled among high vineyards and holm oak and pine forests in the municipality of Pontons, the highest spot in the Penedès region. Although it’s small, it contains a surprising big luxury: an exclusive spa to relax in with your partner or family, and where, if you wish, you can order meals from the hostess, Sílvia, a professional chef. She’s the soul of the house and the person behind the project, with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Not only does she strive to make the house more efficient every day, but she also wishes to set an example to raise awareness among all her guests, with the added bonus of helping them save on their energy bills. Accompanying her on this adventure is Eduard, a jazz musician, who provides the soundtrack to the house and their life. Additionally, the house features a courtyard with an outdoor pool, a hammock underneath a vine-adorned pergola ideal for naps, and an enclosed barbecue area with all the charm of Nordic-style wooden constructions.

2. Els Plans de Cornet.

Plans de Cornet, in Sallent, is the place to go for an authentic experience. The accommodation is part of the farmhouse. In fact, it was originally the old stable where pigs, chickens and rabbits slept, now transformed into a comfortable apartment for four people. You can choose from various activities and plans for an action-packed weekend: wineries of the DO Pla de Bages, mountain biking, hiking, cultural visits, and exploring the many hidden corners of the region. Alternatively, you can take the opportunity to switch off and experience what a typical day on the farm is like for country folks. You’ll get to know the farming roots of this family, who, by vocation, continue to live off the land and livestock just as their forebears did.

3. Can Morei

Whether you want to get away with the family or a whole group of friends, this sustainable luxury option in the heart of the Anoia region will take your breath away. It’s a refurbished farmhouse with eight spacious apartments offering spectacular views of Orpí Castle. Can Morei was renovated with sustainability in mind: it has a biomass energy system for heat production, a rainwater collection system, and the materials used for the renovation are wood and stone. During your stay, you can also enjoy the pool, Jacuzzi, and numerous terraces perfect for sharing good times. An authentic sustainable holiday in Landscapes Barcelona.

4. Rustic Vilella

This accommodation in the heart of nature oozes sustainability from every pore. Every element is designed to ensure a zero-energy footprint: the biomass boiler, the solar panels.... Attention is paid to every last detail, leaving nothing to chance: an electric car to supply the accommodation, charging points for guests, recycling, composting, purchase of local products... Everything is aimed at enhancing your enjoyment of the incredible views and nature of the Berguedà region in all its glory.

When you arrive at Rústic Vilella, you’ll have a job deciding whether you want to have a sleep in a treehouse, go horse riding or mountain biking, take a dip in the heated pool, or enjoy some calm space to reconnect with yourself. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to work up an appetite, and then it will be time to savour the exquisite local dishes on offer.

These are just four sustainable accommodation options in the regions of Barcelona, and here you can find more. You’re sure to find one that suits your needs and, what’s more, you'll discover that there’s a way to travel that matches your lifestyle.


More information:

Masia Can Pascol
Rustic Vilella
Can Morei
Els Plans de Cornet
Sustainable tourism in the regions of Barcelona
Bergueda Tourist Board
Penedès Tourist Board
Anoia Tourist Board
Bages Tourist Board