Esperit Roca offers stunning views, luxurious rooms and exceptional dining, making it a perfect retreat, writes AKANKSHA DEAN
Nestled amidst the serene slopes of St. Julia Mountain, Esperit Roca emerges as a new masterpiece by the Roca brothers, renowned for their three-Michelin-star restaurant, El Celler de Can Roca. This enchanting retreat blends breath-taking views, sumptuous accommodations and extraordinary dining experiences, promising an escape that tantalises the senses.
Ah, the sun-kissed summer of 2024 – a time when culinary magic meets tranquil sanctuary, all thanks to the illustrious Roca brothers. As I approached Esperit Roca, their latest gem perched regally on the St. Julia Mountain, I felt like an adventurer stumbling upon an enchanted land overflowing with dreams, flavours and breath-taking views. Picture this: Away from the bustling city, the Roca brothers – the artisans behind the world-renowned El Celler de Can Roca – have conjured a countryside retreat that is more than an escape; it’s a grand tale waiting to be lived. With three Michelin stars gleaming atop their flagship restaurant and accolades echoing like ancient tales across the globe, it’s uncanny how they continue to surprise us. It’s as if these culinary wizards decided that resting on their laurels was too pedestrian and instead invited us to frolic through this New Haven.
Serenity And Culinary Magic Unveiled
Entering the hotel was like slipping into a luxurious embrace. The atmosphere was steeped in serenity, a stark contrast to the fluttering heart of Girona just a stone’s throw away. Each of the only fifteen exquisite rooms unfolded into its own narrative, complete with private balconies and lush gardens. Imagine winding down in a freestanding tub, indulging my senses as I gazed at the verdant landscape stretched before me. Nestled up against the remnants of a 19th-century fortress, history whispers through the enchanting corridors, while contemporary design dazzles the eye, an unexpected blend reminiscent of a James Bond lair, perhaps? When it came to dining, I ventured into the main restaurant, a true culinary arena bursting with innovation. Here, the Roca brothers have curated two tasting menus, each more enthralling than the last. I seized the opportunity to indulge in the whimsical twist, a spectacular journey that led me from savoury delights straight into a dessert wonderland. The Sweet Spirit Menu is a culinary gem that seamlessly blends creativity with tradition, offering an exceptional dining experience. From the moment I settled in, I was captivated by an array of thoughtfully crafted dishes, beginning with the Boletus Pinicola brioche, a delightful appetizer that sets the tone for the meal with its earthy flavours encapsulating the essence of autumn. This iconic dish, an ode to the artistry of El Celler, transported me directly to the French countryside, rich with foie gras and seasonal truffles.
The menu deftly navigates various influences, showcasing its range through exquisite starters, a highlight being the ‘Pumpkin with Eel’, which harmoniously unites creamy pumpkin and succulent eel, elevated by candied grapefruit and pumpkin seed oil. As I approached the dessert course, my anticipation peaked. The ‘Chocolate Anarkia’ boldly showcased the restaurant’s ethos with its layers of textures and intense flavours, intertwining chocolate that made my taste buds sing. Infused with chili oil and complemented by an array of chocolate-derived elements, ice cream, foams, and nougat, this dish encapsulated indulgence in every bite. Conversely, the ‘Orange Chromatism’ offered a refreshing contrast, a vibrant array of flavours and colours that swayed on my palate. The carrot compote mingled beautifully with refreshing citrus elements, the addition of the ice cream providing a stunning balance to the vibrant fruit landscape. The Menu offers a culinary journey that honours seasonal ingredients while showcasing techniques, creativity and passion, making it a remarkable destination for any food enthusiast.
Culinary Retreat Of Dreams
Every moment at Esperit Roca is a revelation. I felt like a character in my own culinary fairy tale, where each dish is not merely consumed but experienced, savoured and remembered. For those looking to escape, whether from Barcelona for a weekend jaunt or a blissful retreat into nature, this enchanting sanctuary promises more than a bed to lay your head, it offers memories crafted by the hands of culinary geniuses. So, if your heart yearns for an indulgent getaway, where gastronomical greatness fuses with serene sanctuary, let Esperit Roca be your next chapter.
FACT Sheet
Where: Esperit Roca, Carrer Major, Entrada 1, 17481 Sant Julià de Ramis, Girona, Spain
Website: esperitroca.com
