Well, what to say about Mariona’s house close to Olot? It provides ample space, with 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 living rooms and a large dining table. The interior is renovated in lovely earth-tone colors and has a fantastic warmth, gentleness and coziness to it. The kitchen is very well equipped. The view to the east over the mountains is simply stunning. The communication before arriving was excellent, Mariona did even buy us some groceries since we arrived late in the evening from Girona airport, perfect score for hospitality! And Mariona and her husband are one of the nicest people you’ll ever likely to meet, providing a warm welcome and useful sightseeing tips.
There was just one letdown for us: the constant presence of dogs every single time we left the house. Either via the front door, or via the back door leading to the private garden: you will be instantly surrounded. Spain will remain my favorite travel destination for a long time to come and I’ve been to Spain on numerous occasions, so I know dogs are always around and impossible to avoid. We do not mind about casual and temporary encounters. But this situation was quite a learning experience for us. I cannot report any major incidents, but some “playful” biting, a lot of barking at all hours of the day/night and a general unpleasant harassment while sitting or dining outside did test our nerves quite a bit. I know it’s very hard for dog owners to acknowledge that not everyone feels at ease in the presence of their dogs, or to generally understand that not everyone likes dogs. But I didn’t feel at ease when on a certain moment 4 dogs were “playing about” in the garden (including some neighbors’ dogs apparently) and our 3 year old daughter was downright afraid. Other reviewers did not seem to mind, so maybe it’s just us (exaggerating), and maybe all of this just wasn’t our thing. But I still consider myself a lucky man I didn’t have to make the pitch-dark 100 meter walk to the car park after sunset (I admit, I’m not that brave. But I shouldn’t have to worry about being brave: I’m not an informal guest but a paying one, looking for a relaxed time)
It would be great (and common courtesy, in my opinion) if guests were to be asked on arrival if they feel at ease with the dogs, since the dogs will be omnipresent for the whole duration of the stay. Just this little sign of empathy would have made a difference. Having said all of this: I would still recommend the place to everyone feeling at ease with dogs, you should have a superb stay.