Driving down into Falset you get a good view from the road of "Mas Fontanals". The area is very active in wine production, with its own "university" of viniculture. Called the Priorat, this region is famous for the strength of its wine, both in flavour and in alcohol content. In the past it was exported to France to boost the quality and taste of the wine lake. Recently though new varieties and methods have been introduced and the wine is an altogether more refined product, but if you search hard you will find those still producing in the old style.

The area is perfect for walking, cycling and bird-watching. Black redstarts, golden orioles, eagles, buzzards and hoopoes are all there and can be spotted by the untrained eye. Pick your own wild asparagus in the spring and rovellones (the mushroom lacramita deliciosa) in autumn.

The nearby town of Reus was the home of the architect Gaudi and has several important buildings of his. One of his disciples lived and worked in Falset and some of his work can still be seen there.

clickhere to see a plan of the flat

Falset has many good restaurants and every year holds some really good festivals. It even boasts its own castle. In the summer it has a swimming pool

The real joy here is travelling around the area sampling the different wines and olive oils. The region as a whole seems to becoming aware of its own culture and increasingly you can find locally produced olives, olive pastes, cheeses, sweets and nuts as well as the wine for sale.

the bedroom

Mas Fontanals is on the outskirts of Falset surounded by vinyards. Colin and Judith have lived there for so long they are part of village life. They have converted their granny flat into a self contained two person apartment. Their little finca is home to several dogs, a lot of cats and ducks and geese, none of which are a problem. The flat has its own little garden for sitting out in and is surrounded by fruit and olive trees, but should you wish to visit at colder times of the year it is also centrally heated. There is hard standing for a car and the village is a twenty minute walk away, quicker if you fight your way down the old drovers road.

In the flat you have a kitchen with cooker, oven and fridge, a living/eating room and a bedroom with television. The furniture is "old fashioned", no Ikea here just comfort. In the secluded garden surrounded by Colin's sculpture you will have a little peace and space to relax.

Colin or Judith, or both of them, will be on hand to direct you to whatever you want to do to enjoy your holiday.