Niu Dels Falcons Xalet.
Font Moreu, s/n, La Molina, (Girona).
Just about as far from the usual picture of a Spanish hotel as it's possible to get, Niu Dels Falcons is a mountain chalet set high in the Pyrenees. Just one kilometre from the pistes at La Molina, this hotel is an ideal location for skiing in winter and walking in summer. Of course, lovers of skiing, mountain biking, walking and climbing come here in abundance (well, as much abundance as you can get with only seven rooms) but if your objective is just to relax, rest, read, write or simply do nothing you will find this a lovely spot to do it.
Nestling amongst the pine trees, the chalet is surrounded by the magic of the mountains. It is built in the traditional "alpine" style, of stone and wood, with a cosy interior that is a perfect restorative after a day amongst the mountains. As well as the charming mine hosts and their two dogs, you will be welcomed to the hotel by the resident turkey and a gaggle of geese, who turned up one day and just decided to stay!
Lluisa, the owner of Niu Dels Falcons, is a self-confessed mountain addict. One day she got tired of city life and took to the hills. Inspired by the chalets of the Swiss Alps she created her own little project here in Cataluña, where she seeks to offer the best, in her own most personal manner. Lluisa is not just the chef of the establishment, but also very knowledgeable about Scotch malt whiskies, so you will be sure to be offered a dram after dinner as the evening melts away in pleasant conversation.
The guestrooms are warm and comfortable, and beautifully presented. As well as the four double rooms, there are two junior duplex suites with beamed ceilings and if you are fortunate enough to stay in the principal suite you will have the pleasure of a hydro-massage bath to soothe away the aches of an active day in the mountains. Every room offers views over the garden, to the pine forest and the mountains beyond.
It's important to note that prices at Niu Dels Falcons include breakfast and dinner.
We Say
The name says it all: Niu Dels Falcons = Falcon's nest. High up in the Pyrenees this is a world apart from the rest of Spain. If you have enjoyed skiing in the Alps or walking in Scotland, you really should try this.
A Word from the Owner
As a member of the Society for the Appreciation of Scotch Malt Whisky, it will be my pleasure to introduce you to some of my 20 different whiskies that are always available in the bar. To make the experience complete, I even have water direct from Scottish rivers to best "open" the flavour and aroma.