In the heart of La Garrotxa, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, Mas Pineda is a testament to the power of vision, resilience and a deep connection with nature. The centuries-old estate, with over 800 years of history, has been transformed into an oasis of regenerative tourism, offering visitors the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and the environment.

The first time her husband brought her to Mas Pineda, she discovered it while her in-laws were already working on its renovation, in the midst of the 12-year restoration process. She fell in love with its charm and potential, and together with her husband, they continued restoring the house while respecting its heritage. The original stone walls have been preserved and symbolise a commitment to sustainability and authenticity.

The process was not easy. It took three years for the paperwork and permits to be finalised, followed by a period of trial and error, testing the concept with friends and family. Today, Mas Pineda is a growing retreat that combines history with modern, regenerative practices.

Sustainability is at the heart of Mas Pineda’s work. Locally sourced materials and labour were used in the renovation, and the 200 hectares of the estate are actively maintained to prevent forest fires. The property has solar panels for water heating, recycling programmes and a farm-to-table philosophy. Everything, from meals to workshops, is sourced from the estate or from local suppliers. Collaboration with local artisans and small businesses further strengthens the regional economy.

The estate offers forest bathing, workshops on traditional crafts such as ratafia and jam making and guided hikes. These activities are designed not only to bring joy to visitors, but also to convey a deeper understanding of the connections between nature, culture and personal well-being.

Mas Pineda has become a sanctuary where guests can slow down and socialise. The owner recalls a touching moment when a departing guest said: “Your energy and passion are the soul of this place.” Such feedback emphasises how important it is to create meaningful experiences that go beyond aesthetics.

Forest bathing is one of the estate’s most impressive offerings. Visitors are guided through the forest to experience the calming effect of nature. Walking slowly, touching the earth and listening to the sounds of the forest can reduce anxiety and provide a deep sense of peace.

The vision for Mas Pineda is to deepen the focus on retreats and group experiences. By creating spaces for silence and self-reflection, the team hopes to facilitate transformative experiences while providing attentive and unobtrusive care for guests.

When asked for some advice, Laia, the owner, answers wholeheartedly: “Do it with your heart. If your motivation is purely financial, it won’t work. Passion and authenticity are important to create something meaningful.”

The story of Mas Pineda is one of perseverance, love and commitment to leaving the world better than they found it. By combining tradition and innovation, they have not only created a destination, but also a movement for a regenerative way of living and travelling. Their journey serves as inspiration for others who want to make a difference in the tourism industry and beyond.