The House in the Woods

Tucked away down a dead end road on a cliff overlooking the valley of the Ser and slowly being eaten by the encroaching forest, is what must have once been a very fine and imposing house.

Previously the headquarters of the BTT (Bike Touring Club of Catalonia) it has been abandoned at least for the last six years, and is now showing signs of neglect which before long will probably prove terminal.

I believe it is actually owned by the local government in Banyoles, who like all public services here are strapped for cash, and it doesn't appear to be on their list of priorities.

At one stage it was used as a training centre for stone craft, and dotted about the gardens are examples of arches, fountains and even the remains of an african hut. The skills levels exhibited vary from ramshackle to adequate but I particularly liked the Gaudi type fountain. More here

The house itself has three storey hexagonal turrets at each end with arched windows and nice detail on the roof line. I am no student of architectural niceties but the whole thing hangs together well and has pleasing proportions. Currently it is just a large pigeon coop with evidence of rodent squatters in the downstairs rooms

It seems a shame that no one seems interested in saving what could be a lovely building, if I could think of what to do with it I might even put a bid in to buy it myself. Ideas on a postcard please.