My wife and I stayed at the Castle for two weeks during the fall, 2010. The location is absolutely wonderful with plenty of activities close by. Walking or biking through the Spanish countryside exploring small towns, a large outdoor market in La Bizbal every Friday, and the beaches a short drive away. Many ruins from Iberians and Romans are easily accessed from this location. With the wifi we were able to research places to go on our laptop and within an easy morning drive explored mountains, beaches, museums and small towns.
La Bizbal is the larger town nearby for shopping. La Biz, as it is called by people in the know, has a super market (the Orangutan) that has excellent selection and good wine and great seafood market. Within the town there are also several good restaurants and small shops and bakeries. The local dirt road makes it fun with no traffic to either walk or bike with a little daypack for shopping. Follow the well marked trails, market with either signs or the = trail marker to La biz or to an early Roman church less than a mile from the castle.
Girona is moderate drive (35 Minutes) and is a wonderful city to explore, be sure to go to the Archeology museum and see the sarcophagus of the Count de Cruilles and other items from what could possibly be this very castle.
Our favorite nearby small town was Torroelle de Mont Gris, a 15 minute drive, and the starting point to hike up to the ruins of the castle on Mont Gris. This town has a wonderful shopping district, excellent sidewalk cafes in the Central Plaza, and very friendly people. Although we didn’t travel with children, the area is super kid friendly.
The accommodations date to the 13th century, and as such are a bit rustic when compared to those in a modern American home, however, they are functional, and add to the charm of staying in a medieval village. We shopped and cooked in many nights and enjoyed happy hour on the terrace overlooking the panoramic country. Climb the watch tower and imagine using the archer’s windows to defend the village.
I would highly recommend this rental to the adventurer who is seeking an authentic experience in the beautiful Spanish countryside. I can’t wait to return.