Casa Gomis

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Description

Stepping inside Casa Gomis feels like walking into a thoughtfully preserved piece of history set against the backdrop of lush Catalan nature. Located at the edge of El Prat de Llobregat in Barcelona, Casa Gomis—often affectionately called “La Ricarda” by locals—is a singular experience for architecture aficionados and curious explorers alike. This 1950s residence stands as one of the rare, pure examples of rationalist architecture in Spain, harmoniously blending avant-garde design with the tranquility of a nature reserve. On my last visit, the first thing that caught my eye was the play of colored glass against gentle natural light, revealing how architecture and landscape blend here in fresh, surprising ways.

Casa Gomis isn’t a typical museum comprised of rooms lined with artifacts under glass. Instead, you wander its original living spaces and gain insights into both the bold vision of its architect, Antonio Bonet Castellana, and the forward-thinking spirit of the Gomis family who commissioned the home. Surrounded by pine forests and sand dunes, the house itself is ingeniously designed to bring the outside in through sweeping glass facades and fluid interior spaces. The guided tours, which are the only way to access the property, give you a rare chance to experience mid-century Catalan design along with one of the most tranquil corners near Barcelona’s bustling airport.

Key Features

• Iconic Rationalist Architecture: Designed in the 1950s, the house stands out for its clean lines, modular layout, and creative use of simple materials—hallmarks of the Catalan rationalist movement.
• Glass and Light: Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows open the living spaces to views of the nature reserve, flooding interiors with Mediterranean sunlight.
• Original Furnishings: Every tour includes stories behind bespoke furniture and decor that perfectly complement the house’s structure, much of it designed specially for Casa Gomis.
• Proximity to Nature: The house is situated within the La Ricarda nature reserve, offering a rare intersection of architectural heritage and protected wildlife habitat.
• Guided-Only Access: Entry is exclusively through scheduled tours, ensuring a personal, in-depth experience free from crowds.
• Accessibility: The entrance, restrooms, parking, and tour routes are all wheelchair-friendly, making it straightforward for all visitors to explore.
• Parking: Free parking is available on site, a welcome ease for travelers driving in from central Barcelona or the airport.
• No Restaurant On-Site: While there’s no café or restaurant, restroom facilities are present, and it’s easy to bring a snack or picnic outside the entrance among the pines.

Best Time to Visit

Casa Gomis sits within a fragile ecosystem, so tours are limited and tailored for fewer visitors at a time. Spring and early autumn are ideal seasons to explore, with temperatures pleasantly mild and the pine forest around the house at its most aromatic. I found late morning tours especially atmospheric—the sunlight filtering through trees made the floor tiles glow with subtle colors in each room.

Summer can get warm, though the sea breezes reaching inland here help cool things down. If you’re sensitive to heat, avoid midday slots in July and August. Winter tours are available, too, offering a quieter, more intimate look at the architecture—plus fewer bugs and gentler light for photography.

Keep in mind, because access is only by guided tour, it’s best to check availability and reserve tickets ahead of your planned date. Tours often coincide with bird-watching activities in the nature reserve, which adds a unique background chorus to the visit.

How to Get There

Reaching Casa Gomis is part of the adventure. Though set close to Barcelona’s El Prat airport, it feels worlds away from the city’s urban rush. The most straightforward way is by car: enter “Casa Gomis, 08820 El Prat de Llobregat” into your navigation and follow signs for the La Ricarda nature reserve. There’s a free parking lot right at the start of the walking route to the house. Park under the tall pines and you’re just a few minutes’ stroll away from the entrance.

Public transport is an option, with regional train service from Barcelona Sants to El Prat, followed by a local bus or a taxi for the final stretch. Do note: the final approach crosses nature reserve paths, so light, comfortable footwear is a must. On my last trip, I met a few cycling enthusiasts who included Casa Gomis as a stop on their route through the reserve—a scenic option if you enjoy exploring on two wheels.

If you’re coming straight from a flight, or with luggage, it’s wise to check ahead for taxi or rideshare guidelines, as service can be sporadic in the area—especially on weekends or during local events.

Tips for Visiting

• Reserve in Advance: Only guided tours are allowed, and spots sell out fast—especially for English-language tours or larger groups. I recommend booking at least a week in advance during peak seasons.
• Arrive Early: The tour starts promptly, and you’ll want time to enjoy the peaceful approach walk. If you’re driving, parking can fill up quickly on busy days or during concurrent nature reserve events.
• Dress for the Outdoors: The nature reserve has a wild feel, with unpaved paths and a gentle breeze. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection—there’s little shade outside the house itself.
• No Food Inside: Eating inside the house isn’t allowed, but the picnic-friendly area by the parking lot is a nice spot for a snack or sandwich before your tour.
• Photography: Non-flash photography is generally permitted, so bring your camera for those distinctive glass-and-shadow compositions. Always check current rules when you arrive.
• Consider the Airport: The proximity to El Prat airport means you might spot arriving and departing planes from the garden—a quirky contrast with the quiet setting. Some visitors love listening to the architecture tour set to a soundtrack of distant jet engines. For those sensitive to noise, midweek mornings are usually calmest.
• Accessibility: Casa Gomis is one of the few historic homes in Barcelona area with full accessibility. Ramps and wide doorways make it suitable for wheelchair users or anyone with mobility challenges.
• Combine with Nature Walks: Many visitors extend their tour by exploring the La Ricarda reserve’s bird-watching trails. You might spot herons or even flamingoes depending on the season—binoculars recommended!

Every visit to Casa Gomis teaches me something new—about architecture, about Catalonia’s modern history, and about the quiet intersections between art and nature. Whether you’re seeking a break from the urban sprawl of Barcelona or want an unforgettable insight into rationalist design, Casa Gomis is well worth making time for on your next trip.