LAGO DE LINYA is situated on 60 hectares of breathtaking land in the heart of Solsona, known locally as the ‘Land of the Sun’, for its stunning landscape and optimum Mediterranean weather. This ideal location nestles in the Pyrenees Mountains between Barcelona — arguably the most cosmopolitan city in Spain and Andorra — a tiny country boasting resort tourism all year round. It is protected from the severe mountain cold by beautiful cascading hills and features mystical green valleys and a sparkling, crystal-blue lake. Inside this region, the charming medieval village of Linya centers harmoniously around a beautiful valley surrounding a crystal-clear lake, making it the perfect location in which to construct an Eco-Luxe Resort with aspirations to become the finest in Europe. Furthermore, LAGO DE LINYA’S enviable climate, exquisite landscape and proximity to some of the best areas in Western Europe, make it an intriguing option for those looking for a second holiday home to spend glorious summers in or even for those seeking a new year-round adventure in an untarnished and peaceful environment.
A Fascinating History
Solsona is part of the region of Solsonés in Lleida, Catalonia. The area combines a vast tract of forest with tall mountain landscapes. There are six surrounding villages scattered around this territory, spotlighting some impressive examples of medieval architecture dating back to the 15th century. To this day, these charming towns, including Solsona, retain many of their folklore traditions — by celebrating year-round events and festivals. Skeletal remains found in Solsona suggest that life existed in this area as far back as 3000 B.C., during the Neolithic period. Ancestors of the current residents can be traced back to the 10th century, when a cathedral and a monastery were built despite the fact that the city was not officially recognized until 1594. It was at this time that King Philip II inaugurated it as the Diocese of Solsona.
To this day, three of Solsona’s five entrances — remnants of its former existence as a walled – in city — remain intact. Additionally, the streets and some buildings of the old town provide visitors with a visual reminder of its ancient past. Of these structures, the 10th century Gothic Cathedral (consecrated in 1163) –arguably the most representative remains of a medieval past — features a stunning Baroque altar dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Unlike traditional Madonnas, this figure does not wear a veil to cover her face. Instead, she is adorned by long feminine braids and is being pointed at by Christ — as an indication of “the way” — instead of the other way around.
In the year 1200, this precious statue was hidden in a well of the monastery , Santa Maria de Solsona, in order to protect her from the infamous Cathars, who felt that the figure did not merit the representative embodiment of such a holy being. The statue was eventually restored and today is honored with one of Solsona’s liveliest celebrations: the Fiesta Mayor –held every September — and showcasing several parades, folk dances and a traditional religious procession.
The Cathars — an extinct southern French religious group that first appeared in Europe during the 11th century — have enjoyed a rise in popularity during the last few decades, largely due to Dan Brown’s book and subsequent Da Vinci Code films. Their controversial beliefs included chastity to avoid reproduction, the existence of two Gods –one good and one evil — as well as the rumored possession of ancient scrolls containing the lost teachings of Christ that contradicted the gospels. Their brave and bloody end came forty years after Pope Innocent III commanded his crusader army to invade their homeland that bordered Languedoc and the Pyrenees, in 1208.
Other notable buildings include the Episcopal Palace which houses the Diocesan Museum, the City Hall and the Llobera Palace — a 15th century Gothic structure. Some events worth mentioning include the Carnival of Solsona — an important festival celebrating the entire Solsonés region — which highlights the delightful “Bojo” giants and colorful regional costumes and the San Isidro Fair — an agriculturally-themed weekend featuring livestock and traditional crafts dating back to ancient times.
Solona’s Inviting Surroundings
The aforementioned surrounding villages also have a great deal to offer visitors; there is a large selection of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, river rafting and rock climbing available. There is also wonderful local gastronomy , as well as vineyards and olive oil mills creating some of the finest artisan products in the region. Moreover, the neighboring town of Cardona invites travelers to visit their salt mines — a 2 million year old mountain formation — known today as the Salt Mountain Cultural Park, which promotes leisure activities using salt-related resources as well as a museum exhibition of the mining shafts and machinery. This town also boasts a unique structure: an impressive fortress dating back to 986 A.D, reincarnated as a 4-star Parador hotel. Just four kilometers from Solsona, travelers will find the spacious park of La Mare de la Font, the Castell Vell, a stunning 15th century sanctuary featuring magnificent panoramic views of the region.Golfing enthusiasts will appreciate the close proximity to golf clubs, just a short 30 minutes drive away while culture lovers might indulge in a day trip the nearby cities including Lleida, Gerona, Andorra, and of course, Barcelona.