El Caracol

1 review

Architect-designed off-grid retreat in Catalonia with an infinity pool, river swimming and extraordinary views.

  • 6+2
  • 3
  • 3
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Highlights

  • A truly unique architect-designed off-grid home set within eight private acres of Mediterranean forest, orchards and riverside landscapes.
  • Spectacular domed structure with floor-to-ceiling glazing that perfectly frames the surrounding mountains, forests and rivers.
  • Sleeps up to eight guests across three bedrooms with room for two more on the sofa-bed in the living room, making it ideal for families or groups of friends seeking somewhere extraordinary.
  • Relax in the six-metre infinity pool or bounce on the trampoline before enjoying sunset drinks and wood-fired pizzas on the shaded outdoor terrace.
  • Surrounded by exceptional wild swimming spots, waterfalls, canyons and river pools that are perfect for adventurous days outdoors.
  • Thoughtfully designed with natural ventilation, passive heating and cooling systems, and solar power for a sustainable stay.
  • Perfectly positioned for exploring charming Catalonian villages, vineyards, cycling routes and the magnificent Els Ports Nature Park.
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You should know

  • The property sleeps six in three bedrooms and two more on a pull-out sofa bed in the lounge.
  • Well-behaved dogs are welcome by prior arrangement.
  • A hire car is recommended due to the rural location.
  • Highchair and cot are available on request.
  • Minimum stays vary depending on the season.
  • The property is fully off-grid and powered by solar energy.
  • Various extras can be arranged, including guided activities, massages and private chefs.
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The details

Nestled within eight acres of Mediterranean pine forest, olive groves and orchards, El Caracol is one of those rare places that stops you in your tracks the moment you arrive. Lovingly designed and built by its owners, this remarkable off-grid home feels like something from another world, rising from the Catalonian landscape in the form of a striking domed structure with vast walls of glass framing spectacular views. Set where two rivers meet and surrounded by unspoilt countryside, it's an unforgettable escape for families, friends and lovers of architecture alike.

Inside, the home is every bit as impressive as its exterior. Partially built into the landscape and crafted from steel, wood and concrete, the interiors combine cutting-edge design with a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. The open-plan living space is flooded with natural light, while dramatic steel supports, soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glazing create a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. Gather around the dining table for long, leisurely meals, prepare feasts in the fully equipped kitchen or curl up with a book while admiring the ever-changing scenery beyond the glass.

Sleeping up to eight guests, El Caracol offers three peaceful bedroom spaces and a pull-out sofa bed in the living room. Two ensuite bedrooms enjoy beautiful forest views, including a unique master suite with a curved wall, while the flexible central bedroom area works particularly well for children. Throughout the house, thoughtful design and natural ventilation help maintain a comfortable temperature, making it a relaxing retreat in every season.

Outside is where the magic truly unfolds. Spend your days cooling off in the six-metre infinity pool, wandering through the surrounding orchards or firing up the pizza oven and barbecue for memorable alfresco dinners beneath the dome's shaded terrace. There’s even a boules area for friendly competitions and yoga enthusiasts can arrange private classes on the terrace overlooking the forest and, to top it off there's also a 13ft trampoline for you to use during your stay. As evening falls, watch the colours change across the mountains while sharing a bottle of local wine under the stars.

The surrounding region remains one of Spain’s hidden gems. Bordering the spectacular Els Ports Nature Park, the area offers exceptional walking, cycling, horse riding, climbing and wildlife spotting. The nearby village of Horta de Sant Joan, famously visited by Picasso, is full of charm, while the Via Verde cycle route leads to dramatic limestone gorges and natural swimming pools. Ancient hilltop villages, traditional fiestas, excellent wineries and endless outdoor adventures ensure there's always something new to discover during your stay.

On the map

Detailed pricing info

Low season: €1400 Jan,Feb,March. Longer winter sun lets available. Mid season: €1,800 April, May/Last week in September, October, November. Shorter stays welcome. High season: €2,300 June, September week 1-3. 7 nights or more only. Christmas and New Year and Easter break. The week 8/15 August including the solar eclipse is priced at €3,200. Peak season: €2,800. 7 nights or more only

Availability in El Caracol

Choose your check-in & check-out dates

Reviews

From previous guests
5.0

Based on 1 review

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El Caracol in Lledó is a stunningly designed rural hideaway that blends sculptural architecture with complete peace, giving you that rare feeling of being totally removed from the world. The interiors are cool, organic, and calming, and although there’s no air?conditioning, the house stays naturally cool with fans thanks to its thick concrete structure and clever airflow. Days drift by in a deeply relaxing rhythm, surrounded by silence, mountains, and big skies. Access is part of the adventure: the approach runs across a farm track and sometimes a dry riverbed, so a 4×4 is genuinely recommended for comfort and confidence. It’s a place designed for slowing down, breathing out, and letting nature set the pace.

Coolstays User

Stayed September 2026

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FAQs about El Caracol

How many guests can El Caracol accommodate?

The house sleeps up to eight guests across three bedroom spaces, with additional flexibility provided by a sofa bed.

Is El Caracol suitable for families?

Yes. The flexible sleeping arrangements, outdoor space, swimming pool and nearby nature activities make it a great option for families.

Does the property have a swimming pool?

Yes, there is a beautiful six-metre infinity pool overlooking the surrounding landscape.

Is the house really off-grid?

Yes. El Caracol is powered by solar energy and uses passive heating and cooling techniques to minimise its environmental impact.

Are dogs allowed?

Well-behaved dogs are welcome by prior arrangement with the owners.

What outdoor facilities are available?

Guests can enjoy the infinity pool, pizza oven, BBQ, boules area, terraces, vegetable garden and extensive grounds.

Are there walking and cycling opportunities nearby?

Absolutely. The area is renowned for its walking trails and the nearby Via Verde cycle route offers spectacular scenery.

Can additional services be arranged?

Yes. Services such as guided walks, horse riding, massage treatments, private chefs and bike hire can be organised.

What is there to do in the local area?

Explore Els Ports Nature Park, visit historic hilltop villages, enjoy wine tasting, discover natural swimming spots or immerse yourself in local festivals and culture.

How do I book?

You can contact the owner through the 'Request to Book' button on the Coolstays listing. You can then reach out and enquire about possible dates. The owner will then reply and you can book directly through them.

El Caracol is owned and managed by Eve James.
Ask a question or make a booking request directly with Eve James.