Believed to be of fifteenth century origin owing to the fact that the original front door had an upside-down lock, and the metal spike situated on the gable end. Both these were designed to stop witches entering the house, the spike to catch the witch’s skirts as she flew away....

We bought Mas Pallagourdi in 2007 as a semi-derelict building. We have lovingly restored her to life, using original techniques and materials where possible, and using ecologically friendly methods. Our water is heated by solar panels, and heating in winter is provided by woodburning stoves (a plentiful supply of wood is provided by storm-blown trees). Our vegetable plot and almond orchard are totally organic, and all kitchen waste is used to become compost.

Foxes, badgers, eagles, wild boar, genet, woodpeckers and hoopoes are some of the abundant wildlife in this area, not to mention the diverse and numerous butterfly species which grace our gardens in summer. It is possible to walk directly from our woodland to the GR10, or stroll along thyme scented paths to the picturesque village of Maureillas.