The Serres Carbo el Boix National Park is located around one hour's drive south of Barcelona, past fields of peach and orange trees and charming medieval villages. Casa de les Arques is accessed via a 4 km long dirt road lined with almond and olive groves. Hidden and partially covered by earth and grass, this distinctive holiday home in Catalonia blends perfectly into its natural surroundings. An eco friendly property, it was constructed with the environment firmly in mind; the electricity is solar powered, the underground accommodation, which stays cool in the summer and warm in winter, makes air conditioning unnecessary, and a bath and dishwasher have purposely been omitted in order to save water. Yet, with its generous, light-filled space, stylish decor and lovely furniture, Casa de les Arques is an exceptionally comfortable holiday home nevertheless.
The layout of Casa de les Arques
The front of the property features three expansive, arched glass doors. These provide direct access to both the living area, which is furnished with a comfortable sofa and relaxing armchairs, and the open plan kitchen with large dining table. A cosy wood burning stove offers additional warmth in winter and makes for a charming setting during summer. Guests can relax with their choice of music via the iPod Docking station provided. At the centre of the property is a hallway with a stunning 4 metre high ceiling that bathes the interior in natural sunlight. The hall leads to two bright bedrooms, each with double beds, and a bathroom with shower, toilet and wash basin.
The holiday home is surrounded by 150 olive trees; in fact, the English owners produce their own olive oil, which is also available for purchase. The pretty terrace is enveloped by nature and overlooks the verdant valley below, making it the ideal spot in which to relax and unwind. Guests at Casa de les Arques can spend their well-earned break with a good book in one of the comfortable armchairs, enjoy an extended lunch around the dining table or while away balmy summer evenings over a delicious BBQ and a chilled glass of wine. The friendly owners live nearby and, with a young son themselves, have thought of everything to keep your little ones entertained. Searching for unique holiday accommodation in the heart of the Spanish countryside, which is far enough from the madding crowds, yet still close to a number of medieval villages and lovely beaches? Then Casa de les Arques is the perfect choice!
The property is 100% off-grid and runs entirely on solar panels. Keep in mind that during cloudy or low-sunlight days, appliances like the washing machine, hot water, heater, and hairdryer may have limited or reduced usage.