Are you tired of the same old boring hotels? Fed up with your annual trip to the Costa's? Why not try staying somewhere a bit more exhilarating. The three places that I am about to talk about will require you to do a bit more than just work on you tan.

Catalonia

Catalonia is a region of Spain that sweeps down from the Pyrenees along Spain's eastern coasts. To the average tourist Catalonia means the Costa Brava, but there is so much more to this beautiful part of Spain. From the snow capped mountains of the Pyrenees, to the orange tree covered vallys of the central plain, to the rugged coast line with its sandy coves, Catalonia has something for everyone.

Admiring the scenery is one thing but why not become part of it? Experience it first hand in the two places I am going to tell you about.

Casa Guilla

Casa Guilla is a converted farmhouse, parts of which are estimated to be 1000 years old. However, it is not the age of this guesthouse that is the talking point, it is its location, a location that will literally take your breath a way. Casa Guilla is perched high up on a rocky crag, this lofty vantage point gives the guests at Casa Guilla unparalleled views of the countryside below. To see a picture of Casa Guilla go to casaguilla.com.

Breakfast and a four-course dinner are included in the price of the room, and believe me when I tell you, you will not go hungry.

There are plenty of activities on offer in the area including; White water rafting and kayaking, winter and summer skiing, rock climbing and hang-gliding, Richard and Sandra Loder who own Casa Guilla can give you details on other activates.

Address - Casa Guilla, Santa Engracia, Apartado 83, 25620 Tremp, Lerida, Spain

For details on hotels in Estartit, Costa Brava, click the link

Can Cuadros

Can Cuadros is a 1000 year old castle that has been lovingly restored and is now an 8 bedroom hotel. However, to call Can Cuadros a hotel seems a little belittling, this building is so much more. Everywhere you look in this magical place reminds you of its history; even the bedrooms are filled with fascinating artefacts.

As for the food, well that is a memorable as the building. Every meal you eat here will be made with the best local ingredients and virtually everything is organic including the wine.

The owners of the Can Cuadros organise several courses including Medieval Cookery, and Furniture Restoration.

If you were looking for a walking holiday in Spain, the Can Cuadros would make an ideal base.

Address - Can Cuadros, Major3, 25211 Palouet-Massoteres, Lerida, Spain