La Girada is a large stone-built mountain house in the tiny Pyrenean village of Mantet, tucked into a lost valley in the high mountains south of the Canigou massif.

The house, which sleeps up to 20, is an ideal base for exploring this wild and rugged region of the Pyrenees at any time of the year.

click on photo to enlarge

the house, with rooftop terrace, seen from the lower terrace.

The Girada came about by chance: when we had re-built our house (we were among the first to re-settle the village) friends and relations asked to spend their holidays with us. We added on some rooms, put in extra showers and ... la Girada was born.

Girada is a Catalan expression referring to a shepherd's daily round or circuit in the mountains. For example, there's a place in the mountains near Mantet known as 'la Male Girada' which signifies a poor spot for shepherds: the grazing is no good for sheep or goats.

You can always expect a warm welcome at La Girada in Mantet, respect for the surrounding natural environment and well-organised activities.

The Girada may be rented out by the week or just used as an overnight stop. In high summer it operates as a guesthouse with full-board (great meals!) and guided walks.

Guy Adriaensen, owner and guide, also organizes a yearly trip to the high Andes in Peru and Bolivia. Photos from the last trip.