“The Priorat is a stormy, cataclysmic country, of impressive geological violence. The geology of the area seems like a drunkenness, an internal, disordered and powerful force that rattles the earth, a force of sumptuous colors, of dense exudation, of swellings and agitated swellings, of dust,” is how Josep Pla described the region in 1971. A rugged territory full of ravines and steep slopes where, in the 12th century, the Carthusian monks dared to cultivate vines, attaching their roots to the slate soils of the mountain slopes of Monstsant.
And between curves, crop fields and mountains stands a farmhouse from 1797 that was owned by the Bruno family, one of those who for decades were in charge of working the vineyards of the monks in the Torroja del Priorat area, in Tarragona, and which, since this May, houses a five-star hotel that bears his name.
The Gran Hotel Mas d'en Bruno building has been rehabilitated respecting and integrating architectural elements that have survived the passage of time, such as the façade with its stone lintel with the engraving of the year of construction, the wooden beams at the entrance and the spa area, which was an old wine press. A reform that has managed to link tradition and modernity, harmoniously, in the same space.
Isolated, without light or noise pollution, the environment is perfect to disconnect and let yourself be carried away by your senses. For this, it has 24 suites, ranging from 120 square meters, plus a private terrace of 30 square meters in Bruno's Suite, to 55 square meters in the Junior Suite, decorated in neutral colors, in which natural wood predominates. , red marble and white stone, colors without great contrasts to facilitate a peaceful sleep between powerful stone walls.
It's easy to relax in the outdoor infinity pool surrounded by private cabanas and hammocks overlooking the vineyards, just as in the privatized spa you can enjoy a heated pool, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, and hot and cold water jets. The tailored treatments are carried out with Natura Bissé products, which allow you to pamper yourself to the fullest. There is also a boutique store that offers exclusive items, crafts and local gastronomy products, and a library where you can spend long and relaxing moments.
Gastronomy is another of the hotel's attractions. Two restaurants and three bars invite you to enjoy cuisine connected to the land, created by Tarragona chef Josep Queralt especially for Mas d'en Bruno. There is actually only one restaurant, which transforms depending on the time of day. It is Tarraco at midday, ideal for tasting Italian-Mediterranean proposals, and Vinum at night, with tasting menus prepared by the chef and paired with an extensive wine list.
The Wine Bar, one of the most private spaces, allows you to taste the best wines from the land and the world, and is the ideal place to learn about the DO with a tasting or a masterclass. Bruno's Bar serves signature cocktails, and Bistro, on the terrace overlooking the pool and vineyards, offers a selection of tapas and Mediterranean dishes made from fresh and local products.
The experience transcends the walls of the hotel. There are various proposals that range from electric bicycle routes to yoga sessions, olive oil or wine tastings, a picnic among vineyards and stargazing with an expert who reveals the secrets of the Milky Way.
