Castell d'Emporda

High on a hilltop, within sight of the sea, there is an imposing mediaeval castle called Castell d'Emporda. 700 years ago the castle belonged to Pere Margarit, a sea-captain who sailed with Christopher Columbus. Today it is a unique hotel, stylish but casual, owned by Albert Diks.

Thick stone walls and ancient timbers are everywhere at Castell d'Emporda, and nowhere more so than in the bar, that is formed in the ancient cellars of the castle. This is a relaxing and unique spot for enjoying fine wines, elegant cocktails and cigars.

All 35 rooms are individually decorated, featuring silks from India and furniture imported from Italy, Morocco, Africa and China. Every one has a lovely view. The Castle Rooms are located in the original part of the castle. They are tastefully decorated with Indian silk curtains and pillows in red, blue and mother-of-pearl colours, Chinese wood panels and hand-made bathroom tiles from Marrakech, all of which combine harmoniously with the rustic mediaeval stone walls. The views over the rolling pine-covered hills are breathtaking. The Garden Rooms are in a superb new building constructed in sympathetic style alongside the castle. It is situated next to the pool and has its own roof garden. All these rooms have antique oak floorboards, silk curtains, Italian and Chinese furniture, and private balconies from which one can enjoy stunning sunsets.The Tower Rooms are located, unsurprisingly, in the tower. These are intimate rooms, just right for romantic lovers. The Pere Margarit Suite is found right in the heart of the castle. This was the original master bedroom that has been beautifully restored with stained glass windows, Victorian bathtub and yet more Indian silks. New for 2007 are the large Garden Suites, specially decorated by the renowned interior designer Cristina Gabas in a style that is contemporary, yet with classical touches.

Castell d'Empordà is the ideal place to discover Catalonia. The rolling hills and picturesque villages are a pleasure to explore. There are outstanding walks, hikes and bike routes, as well as a wide range of possibilities for sports and culture. The Pyrenees are just around the corner and the area is a golfers' paradise with 9 golf courses on hand. And don't forget the beaches! All the swimming, sunbathing, relaxation and watersports of the Costa Brava are just 20 minutes away.

Meals

The restaurant at Castell d'Emporda is a focal point for hotel guests and connoisseurs of good food from around the area. Chef Abel Cardozo and his team like to surprise their diners with special dishes always made from the freshest ingredients. Each dish possesses the ultimate castle feeling: the rich cuisine of the Mediterranean, either grown in the hotel's own garden or brought in daily from the neighbouring farms and fishing villages.
Every day guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks and a romantic dinner at Castell d`Empordà, either in the restaurant or outside on the spacious terraces.

Out and About

Beaches, walking, cycling, golf.
Llafranc, Calella, Aiguablava and Begur are only 20 minutes away, which are known as some of the best beaches of the Costa Brava.
There are outstanding walks and cycle routes all around the Emporda area, usually not too demanding as the terrain is rolling rather than rugged.
For golfers, there are many excellent courses to choose from. Castell d'Emporda has special arrangements for its guests with:
Peralada
Emporda
Girona
Serres de Pals
Platja de Pals
Mas Nou d'Aro
Costa Brava
PGA Catalunya
Torremirona

Places to visit:
The mediaeval villages of Emporda
Girona (or Gerona): mediaeval city with its old bridges, the beautifully restored Jewish quarter and the widest Cathedral in Spain.
Figueres: full of historical and cultural interest, with monuments and museums, such as the famous and bizarre Dalí Theatre Museum.
Barcelona: 1¼ hours by car.

Located in the tower of the castle, these rooms have spectacular views. They are intimately decorated and are the ideal choice for romantic couples. The bathrooms are equipped with a shower.

This is a spectacular new building that was constructed on the eastern side of the castle. It is situated next to the pool and it has a roof garden. All these rooms, decorated with antique oak floorboards, silk curtains, Italian and Chinese furniture, also have private balconies from which one can enjoy stunning sunsets. Room 16 has balcony doors overlooking the medieval village.

These rooms are located in the original part of the castle. They are tastefully decorated with Indian silk curtains and pillows in red, blue and mother-of-pearl colours, Chinese wood panels and hand made bathroom tiles from Marrakech, all of which harmoniously combine with the rustic medieval stonewalls. The views over the Emporda's rolling pine hills are breathtaking.

Decorated in a contemporary style with classical aesthetic references. Light colours with a mediaeval touch and natural materials such as antique oak, teak and natural stone keep in touch with nature. There is a separate living area and bedroom. The bathroom is inspired by a Turkish hamman. Both bathoom and the bedroom have balconies overlooking the amazing landscapes of the Ampurdan.

Located in the heart of the castle, this was the original master bedroom that has been beautifully restored with stained glass windows, Victorian bathtub and Indian silks.