Alemanys 5

The 16th and 21st centuries collide in these dazzling architect-designed apartments in central Girona (sleeping 2-10)

Architect Anna Noguera redesigned this 16th-century house in the shadow of Girona’s cathedral to be her weekend retreat from Barcelona, and now lets it for visitors to the city. It’s as special as that would suggest: an oasis of modernist calm in a building still ringing with ancient delight, including the original rainwater collection system in the courtyard.

Inside you’ll find curved lamps, Eames chairs, exposed stone walls and warm lighting. The house is split into 2 apartments, El Jardi ('The Garden', sleeping 2-4) and El Badiu ('The Veranda', sleeping 2-6), and these can be booked separately or together to sleep a maximum of 10 people. We especially loved the small rainwater-fed pool in the garden and the views of the narrow, Moorish streets of the Jewish Quarter from El Badiu's roof terrace. It’s the ideal base for a stylish long weekend in Girona, eating out, perhaps, at El Celler de Can Roca, one of the best restaurants in the world, as well as exploring the city's architectural treasures and cycling through woodland to secret beaches.

Highs

• It’s as stunning to look at as the photos suggest: clean lines, wonderful lighting and a beautiful combination of ancient and modern
• Housekeeper Montse speaks lots of languages and will look after you really well. She is the wife of a local chef and can offer a bespoke concierge-style service for meals and activities
• A fantastic location in old Girona, within walking distance of everything
• State-of-the-art kitchens for self-catering, plus lovely dining areas
• Perfect for 1 or 2 couples or families holidaying together: El Badiu has 1 double room and 2 single rooms, El Jardi has 2 double/twin bedrooms. Both can fit extra beds and baby cots

Lows

• Driving around the city’s narrow streets (which confuse Sat Navs) can be complicated
• El Badiu has no access to the garden and pool
• A 6-night minimum stay June-September
• Although El Jardi works well for 2 couples, you will have to share a bathroom