Escape to Paradise: Montseny's Dream House with Pool & Games!
Escape to Paradise? More Like… A Chaotic Delight: My Review of Montseny's Dream House!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans (and maybe some sangria) on "Escape to Paradise: Montseny's Dream House with Pool & Games!" This place… well, let's just say it's an experience. It's a glorious, slightly-off-kilter experience, but an experience nonetheless. And hey, that's what we want, right? Not just a bland hotel room, but a memory you can actually feel.
First, the Basics (and the Breath-Taking Bits):
This place is up in the Montseny mountains, which means… breathe. Seriously, the air is cleaner than my conscience after a particularly good nap. You're surrounded by nature, views that make your jaw drop, and the sheer possibility of forgetting your phone even exists. The accessibility is a mixed bag, to be honest (I'll delve deeper later), but the views? They're universally accessible to everyone with eyeballs and a pulse. Speaking of which, there’s a car park [free of charge] on-site, thankfully, because trying to navigate those mountain roads without a car would be… well, a nightmare. There's also a car park [on-site], just in case. Plus, airport transfer, because getting lost in the Spanish countryside on your own isn't my definition of paradise.
The "Dream House" Vibe (and the Imperfections):
The "Dream House" part? That's a bit of a stretch, but in a good way. It's not sterile or overly polished. It feels… lived in. Like a really nice (and well-maintained) house, someone actually lives in (or at least, wants you to feel like they do). There's a quirky charm, a slight air of "we're doing our best!" which, honestly, I loved. They're definitely aiming for that "boutique hotel meets cozy hideaway" feel, and they mostly nail it.
The internet situation, though? Okay, so you’ve got Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! which, woohoo! Except… it's mountain Wi-Fi. Think sputtering, occasionally disappearing, and definitely not enough for streaming uninterrupted Netflix binges. I'm not complaining (much!), but pack a book, people. They also offer Internet [LAN] - so bring your own cable, if you have one!
Things to Do (and the Temptation to Do Absolutely Nothing):
Okay, let's talk about what the brochure says they have… because it’s a lot.
Pool Time! The Swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous. The Pool with view, is just…wow. I spent a good chunk of my stay staring at it, contemplating the meaning of life (or, you know, what to order for lunch). The Poolside bar is a godsend for those moments. They also say about foot bath? Didn't see it. But hey, you've got a pool, and that's the primary goal.
Relaxation Station: They've got the works! Sauna, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, and a full Spa. I did indeed indulge in at least one of these, and I felt like a new person when I emerged. They have body scrub and body wrap as well. Honestly, after that, I basically just wanted to sit in the sun and be a potato. They also have massage and Gym/fitness to try (I might take a look at the gym, maybe… later). And can't forget the Couple's room, very nice for couples, you know?
Activities: They have Games! I believe it's a billiard table, which is awesome, so you better bring some friends with you.
For the Kids: They claim to be Family/child friendly. I didn't bring any kids, but I did see a lot of them running around and having an absolute blast, so I'd say it checks out. They have a Babysitting service too, a lifesaver for the adults. Also, Kids meal is a definite plus.
Food, Glorious Food (and the Occasional Hiccup):
The food situation…this is where it gets really interesting. They've got a solid lineup:
- Restaurants: You have several options, including a Vegetarian restaurant. I didn’t eat there, but good to know! There is a Bar, and a Coffee shop, and a Snack bar, if you just want some quick bites.
- Dining: Of course, they feature restaurants with Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, and International cuisine in restaurant. They have a Breakfast [buffet] and Breakfast service! (Which seemed like an upgrade to me, very convenient).
- The Good Stuff: The Breakfast [buffet] was surprisingly good, with fresh pastries, and a decent selection of local cheeses and meats. The A la carte in restaurant menu offered some delectable plates, but I wasn’t the biggest fan of the Soup in restaurant. Also, the Bottle of water that arrives in your room is very welcomed. They also have a Happy hour!
- Room Service: Room service [24-hour] is a godsend when you're feeling lazy (which I always am on vacation).
- The Maybe Less-Good Stuff: The Coffee/tea in restaurant was… well, it existed. The Desserts in restaurant were good, but not mind-blowing.
They promise Alternative meal arrangement, but I'm not sure what those are. Also, I did see Salad in restaurant!
Cleanliness, Safety, and the "COVID-Era" Stuff
Okay, so they're trying. They’ve got the whole shebang: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment… the list goes on.
The rooms themselves felt clean and fresh. It seemed like they were taking things seriously. So, A+.
Accessibility (The Slightly Messy Truth):
This is where things get a little less utopian. They list Facilities for disabled guests. However, I'm not going to pretend to be an expert on disability access. What I can say is that the layout of the “Dream House” is a bit of a maze, with some steps and uneven surfaces. Finding the Elevator might be a challenge. The exterior corridor makes it easy to get to your door. I recommend that you check directly with the hotel about your specific needs before you book. Transparency is key!
The Rooms: Your Personal Fortress of Comfy-ness
Let's talk about your temporary digs!
- Goodies: Air conditioning is a must in the summer, and it's a lifesaver. The Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Coffee/tea maker, the Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Hair dryer, Free bottled water, In-room safe box, Linens, Mini bar, Private bathroom, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Wake-up service, and the Wi-Fi [free] are all appreciated. Also, the Additional toilet, and Extra long bed are perfect.
- The Not-So-Perfect Stuff: The Blackout curtains really do the job, but I got the impression that they would be useful to block the sun, and not for any other activity.
- The Really Nice Stuff: The Bathtub is a real treat. The Closet and the Desk are also very useful. Also, the Socket near the bed is incredibly convenient!
- The “Meh” Section: Carpeting is there, but it could use some attention. The Mirror works. And the Reading light is a good thing.
- The Missing Pieces: They have Ironing facilities, but I'll still be using my worn-out clothes.
- The “You Get Used to It” Section: The Desk is also useful.
Overall Verdict – And Why You Should (Probably) Book:
This place isn’t perfect. It's got quirks, a few bumps in the road, and an internet connection that sometimes makes you want to throw your phone across the room. But… it’s also charming. It’s got a soul. This place feels like a
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Seafront Villa in Pizzo, Italy
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your glossy travel brochure itinerary. This is the real deal: me, a house in Montseny, Spain, and a whole lotta messiness. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Montseny Meanderings: A Week of Glorious (and Slightly Chaotic) Spain
Day 1: Arrival & The "Oh God, Did I Pack the Right Adapter?" Crisis.
- Afternoon (ish): Fly into Barcelona. The flight was… a flight. You know, the usual cramped legroom, questionable air quality, and the guy in front who reclined his seat the second we left the gate. I swear, some people treat planes like their personal recliners. Anyway, we made it!
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Pick up the rental car. Praise the travel gods, it's actually a real car and not a glorified tin can! The drive to Montseny is supposed to be scenic. I'm relying on the GPS, which, as far as I can tell, thinks I'm an alien trying to navigate the Spanish countryside. "Continue straight, then veer dramatically left, as if you're entering a speed-eating contest" is the gist.
- Evening: Arrive at the house! It's even more stunning than the pictures. The air smells of pine and something… fresh? The pool looks inviting, the garden is bursting with color. Pure bliss. Except… where's the adapter?! Oh, the humanity! My phone is dying!!!! This is a disaster. I can't document my life unless it's on Instagram! (Just kidding… mostly.) After a frantic search, and nearly throwing my luggage out the window in frustration, I find it! Victory! The first crisis is averted. Now, wine. And tapas. Definitely tapas.
- Night: Dinner on the patio. The stars are incredible. We attempt to use the BBQ, which results in (surprise!) a minor fire-related incident. Nothing major, but the charcoal smell is clinging to everything. Lesson learned: I am not a pyromaniac chef.
Day 2: Hiking, Hummus, and Mild Existential Dread.
- Morning: Hike in Montseny Natural Park. We start off all gung-ho. "Look at us, conquering mountains!" Four hours later, we're stumbling back, sunburnt, sweat-drenched, and questioning our life choices. The views, though… absolutely worth it. I took about a million pictures, most of which will probably look exactly the same. I'm officially obsessed.
- Lunch: We locate a charming little restaurant in a nearby village. They serve the most incredible hummus I've ever tasted. Like, life-changing hummus. I'm seriously considering moving to Spain just to eat that hummus every day.
- Afternoon: Back at the house. Lounging by the pool. I had a moment of quiet reflection – and mild existential dread. What am I even doing with my life? Am I worthy?? Then I had another glass of wine. Problem solved.
- Evening: Games Night! We attempt to play some board games in the games area. This quickly devolves into heated arguments and accusations of cheating. The competitive spirit is strong in this family. I am winning.
Day 3: Market Mayhem & Accidental Paella.
- Morning: Visit a local market in a nearby town. The smells! The colors! The chaos! I wander around, completely overwhelmed but loving it. I buy far too much fruit, some questionable cheese, and a ridiculously large straw hat.
- Lunch: We decide to attempt making paella. I'm not a cook. I'm more of an "open a jar of something" kind of person. The result is… well, let's just say it's edible. A lot of the rice is burnt. The seafood is… mysterious. The paella is so much more than a meal, it is an experience!
- Afternoon: Pool time (thank God for the pool, seriously.) The wine is flowing. Things are improving.
- Evening: We are going to attempt to make paella again, but this time, we are going to go to the local expert and learn the right way to cook it!
Day 4: Castle Craving & Photo Frenzy!
- Morning: After the paella expert helped us, we are going to the castle. This is the Montseny village castle!
- Lunch: Back at the house.
- Afternoon: Just taking pool photo after pool photo!
- Evening: Now, more games!
Day 5: Day Trip Debacle (and Delight).
- Morning: Decide to take a day trip… to somewhere. We pick a random town on the map and go. It’s charming! Full of cobbled streets, hidden cafes, and the obligatory church. The journey there is a comedy of errors. We get lost. The car starts making a weird noise. We argue. But eventually, we make it.
- Lunch: A cafe with the most amazing coffee. We have to order two of them.
- Afternoon: We are heading back… the car makes a weird noise, again, and the tire goes flat!
- Evening: We are at the house! The car has been fixed! The stars are incredible.
Day 6: Pool, Relaxation, and a Tiny, Existential Crisis (Again).
- Morning: Seriously considering just moving into the pool. It’s glorious. I’m pretty sure I could live off of sangria and sunshine.
- Lunch: I am going to attempt to use the BBQ. This time, with a real recipe.
- Afternoon: More pool! I'm reading a book. Except I'm really just looking at the cover. Another glass of wine. And a momentary sense of, "Is this all there is?" But then the sun hits my face and I remember, oh yeah, life is pretty good.
- Evening: Last night! We are having amazing paella!
Day 7: Goodbye (Sniffle) and Barcelona.
- Morning: Pack. Sigh. This is the worst part. Spend time staring at the house, trying to memorize every nook and cranny.
- Afternoon: Drive back to Barcelona.
- Evening: Check into a Barcelona hotel. A last, delicious dinner. Reflect on the week. Laugh at all the craziness. Feel a pang of sadness at leaving. Promise myself to come back.
- Night: Sleep! After all the joy, and chaos, I definitely need this.
Final Thoughts:
This was, hands down, the best worst vacation of my life. Messy? Absolutely. Imperfect? You bet. Memorable? Undeniably. I wouldn’t trade it for all the perfectly curated Instagram feeds in the world. Montseny, you beautiful, infuriating, and utterly charming place, I'll be back. And next time, I'm bringing a better adapter. And maybe a paella masterclass.
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Noves Holiday Home with Private Garden!
Escape to Paradise: Montseny's Dream House – Let's Get Messy with the FAQs!
Okay, so "Dream House"... is it *really* dreamy, or just another Airbnb with questionable Wi-Fi?
The pool. Is it as picture-perfect as it looks? Because those Instagram photos ALWAYS lie.
Let's talk games. What's the game situation like? Is it just a dusty chess set and a broken Uno deck?
Montseny... the mountains! Tell me everything! What should I expect?
The kitchen. Is it a fully equipped chef's paradise or a glorified microwave nook?
Anything else I should know? Any hidden gems, or… warnings?
