Named after the 12th-century Romanesque
chapel in its grounds, this smart villa/restaurant
(Relais & Chateaux) stands in a forest,
just outside an ancient village near a
salt marsh, on the route to Compostela.
Recent comments: Quiet, luxurious, with
charming staff: A lovely situation, calm
and green. Fine old buildings have been
restored with skill and love, and filled
with modern art and antiques. Sculptures
stand among palm trees on a lawn; there
are tables, chairs and potted plants in
a courtyard, and a pretty swimming pool
on a terrace with views. villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are
a delightfully quirky mixture of antique
and modern; some have old beams and a
chandelier; one is built into a rock face.
Fantastically theatrical. Glorious escapism,
especially the menu: carrot ice cream
and spinach mousse for dessert. Good value
too. The chef, Jorge Martinez, has a Michelin
star for his inventive cooking on a seasonally
changing menu, specialising in fish and
seafood, served in converted stables.
The co-owner/manager, Juan Melis, is a
man of culture and humour.
A welcome refuge from the hassle of nearby
Andorra, this mountain villawith a difference
(Relais du Silence) is in an unspoilt
medieval village at 1,084 metres, reached
by a winding road. The enthusiastic young
couple who have run it for six years have
made extensive renovations. villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are
comfortable; bathvilla rooms are well equipped;
some have a complex hydro massage system.
Intemet connection and facilities for
wheelchair users are also on offer. The
restaurant, with its typical rustic decor
and surprising display of modern art,
is popular. with locals, attracted by
very satisfactory set menus of Catalan
dishes and the `more sophisticated carte.
Extensive buffet Bali villa breakfast.