The Middle of Somewhere August 19, 2009

 

We first visited Archidona nearly 10yrs ago. The desire for me to escape the hooplah of London Town was strong and we needed a central base to explore the many corners of Andalucia. We chose Archidona and a small, family-run hotel called the Escua. Many kilometres and many weird and wonderful viewings later,  Archidona was to become the place where we eventually decided to lay our sombreros. 

Surprisingly, the owner of the Escua and his family generously integrated us into their own extended family and during our first faltering months here, their selfless support and kindness provided a solid foundation for our andalucian adventure. Our friendship has blossomed over the years to where we are now looking to extend our own support and kindness by offering the family’s traditional andalucian lodgings to the UK market.

Many of our own friends and family have enjoyed the local hospitality whilst staying here in Archidona (a number have even been inspired to buy their own bolt-hole) so, if you too, would enjoy immersing yourself in an authentic corner of Andalucia, check out Luis’ various accommodation options in Archidona. It truly is the Heart of Andalucia. 

http://www.themiddleofsomewhere.com

Amazing Andalucian Venue for hire September 16, 2008

 

Looking for a venue that can provide an authentic and unique back drop for family gatherings? celebratory dinners? corporate away days?  weekend retreats?  development workshops?  Talk to us – the possibilities to create something memorable are endless……..

 

This traditional andalucian cortijo is set in the grounds of a 300-acre working olive estate. Fully renovated to provide a self-contained venue with 8 en-suite twin bedrooms, large refectory-style dining room, kitchen, huge, yet comfortable lounge, downstairs cloakroom, courtyard and swimming pool. There is a further 50ft room which looks out onto the inner courtyard and is ideal as a formal or informal workshop space. An atmospheric breakout room is also available.

 

 

The cortijo is situated 2kms outside of the historic town of Archidona, in the North of the Malaga province and just 45 minutes from both Malaga and Granada airports.

Check out the website at http://www.themiddleofsomewhere.com For further details email kerry.talkthetalk@telefonica.net 

Special rates for people we know? You bet!

 

 

It’s a Dog’s Life September 7, 2008

     

 

This is a valuable tip for resident ex-pats who, like us, have made several additions to the family since moving to Andalucia - dog-shaped additions. The challenge which followed was to find great boarding kennels where we could happily check in our brood so we could head out and explore the nooks and crannies of Spain. 

We worked our way through the advertised options but didn’t personally feel comfortable with any of them. And then we heard of Paws and Claws, a totally different kind of dog lodgings, run by a remarkable woman called Doreen Cage.

Here, the dogs receive home from home treatment. No sterile pens, no rotated play times. All the dogs live together with Doreen! They have free reign to parts of the house and lots of interesting land to explore. There are even sofa’s and beds where they curl up at night. There is something magical about Doreen. I say she’s an unsung Dog Whisperer. Mutts of all shapes and sizes live in perfect harmony – it’s a total joy to see and our boys love her. You only have to say ‘Doreen’ and they form an orderly queue at the front door.

Paws and Claws are located in the countryside in the north of the Malaga province between Iznajar and Villanueva de Algaidas, 40mins from Antequera.

You can email Doreen on bbirding@wanadoo.es or call landline 952745028

Beautifully Restored Palace Hotel September 7, 2008

 

        

 

Were you one of the many BBC viewers who followed this roller-coaster restoration project? Nick and Lesley Vallance bought a crumbling 18th century palace and turned it into a beautiful boutique hotel in the town of Velez-Malaga, on the eastern side of the Costa del Sol. 

When we went to check it out, we couldn’t have been more impressed. The 8 en-suite bedrooms are  set around a wonderful central courtyard and are large, light and sumptiously decorated. The style is contemporary moorish with an indulgent palate of chocolate browns, reds and deep cerise against a crisp white backdrop – the overall effect is strangely dramatic yet calming. Infact, when you walk through the main doors, it is like going through the wardrobe in the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, into a whole new world.

Although we were only popping in to be nosey, Nick and Lesley could not have made us feel more welcome – what a warm and friendly couple. I was so pleased to hear they were fully booked for the coming 3 months. These two deserve success.

Check out flights to Malaga now (30mins from airport) and secure a booking for a weekend escape in the Palacio now. I promise you this is a special place to stay and will score big brownie points with the other half. 

http://www.palacioblanco.com

Working the Charm Offensive August 2, 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

The Hotel Fuente del Sol has only been open 2 years and has already secured its place in the prestigious Domus ‘Hotel with Charm’ Guide.  After our first visit today, we can confirm that it truly oozes charm. The location offers the most incredible far-reaching views – as far as Malaga coastline apparently on a non-38 degree, high swelter-factor day. There’s an elevated outdoor pool and an indoor pool + spa, both of which have been strategically placed to take full advantage of the surrounding vistas. The 8 rooms are elegant with huge pitched ceilings and the 6 suites are suitably indulgent with private terraces.  The inspiring restaurant menu persuaded us to secure a booking for no other reason than because we’re worth it. I just know it’s going to deliver a serious scrum factor score.

 

If you’re looking for an indulgent weekend escape, check out the offers currently showing on their website. http://www.hotelfuentedelsol.com/hotel-en.htm I only live 30mins away but have decided to book a 2-night Autumn package at only 75 euros a night with a massage, horse-trek and bottle of wine thrown in! That’s the easy bit – I just need to find someone charming to share it all with now!

Affordable Luxury in a Hidden Valley July 21, 2008

              

  

             

 

 

CASAS CRUZ

For the space & peace we all crave

 

Nestled in a secret valley hidden between the quaint andalucian pueblo of Villanueva de Tapia and the hilltop delight that is Fuente de Conde, there sit Las Casas Cruz.

 

Captivated by the undisturbed location in 2005, English owners, Phil and Gemma embarked on their goal to make this corner of the world their new home. They renovated additional properties on their land to create a secluded haven to share with guests in need of tranquility and private space. The guest accommodation has been carefully renovated to blend with nature whilst providing a discerning level of comfort. Small details will surprise you and a large private pool is a welcomed treat.

 

 

Despite a panoramic backdrop with hills that create an illusion of total seclusion, main routes to each vibrant city of Andalucia are less than 15mins drive, as is the precariously perched white town of Iznajar, surrounded by its crystal blue lakes. Local markets offer fresh produce and rustic eateries tempt with traditional andalucian dishes.

 

 

There is of course one draw back – you’re not going to want to leave.

 

Check out their website http://www.casacruz.info

‘The Middle of Somewhere’ May 10, 2008

   

La Cartuja De Cazalla, Seville

This former Carthusian monastery is about an hours drive north of Seville, in Cazalla de la Sierra. It is one of the most unique and life-affecting places I have ever visited.

 

It was found by the indomitable ‘Carmen Ladron de Guevara y Bracho’ when she was in her early 20’s and she has made it her life’s work to restore this mammoth site into a Centre of Contemplorary Art & Culture with accommodation. She is one of the most inspirational women I have ever met and once told me ‘When I found this place, it was in the middle of nowhere and I wanted to make it the middle of somewhere’. She has more than accomplished her mission. This has been her project for over 25yrs now during which time she has valiantly battled with red tape and corruption. Her tale is gripping. She is Spanish but speaks perfect English, has an incredibly dry sense of humour and loves to debate world topics over breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

The buildings themselves and their surroundings will mesmerise and inspire in equal measures. The sunsets will touch your soul. The fresh water pools will hold you captive.  During my last visit, whilst out walking one day, I was accompanied by a herd of baby wild pigs. They ran alongside me and played like puppies. I felt like a character in a Sylvanian forest tale.

 

There are 2 types of accommodation here. The renovated coaching lodge has small but unique double and single rooms, each decorated with materials from the surrounding land and with original art from one of the many resident artists who have spent time here. There are also 4 suites in the old cloisters and if you’re travelling with friends, one of these can be very economical as they consist of two rooms, one with a double bed and the other with 2 sofas that convert into single beds. All have amazing views and are decorated simply and tastefully with local materials.

 

This is a perfect weekend retreat where you will create memories and go home with tales to tell. Check out flights to Seville now.

http://www.skill.es/cartuja

The Only Brit In The Hamlet May 9, 2008

 

         

 

Book a stay at Cerro Limon (Lemon Hill) 

A London-based buddy of mine bought and tastefully restored a cute cottage in the heart of a very traditional, white-washed hamlet just 30 mins north of Malaga city.  She uses it for periodic escapes but is happy to let others enjoy the space too.  The views are breathtaking, the opportunities for uplifting walks are limitless and the neighbours will treat you with warmth and generosity. It’s ideal to kick back and chill or use as a base to explore the whole region.  Oh, and if you’re looking to brush up on your classroom Spanish, this delivers true immersion!

 Note: April 2009 This cottage is now for sale. Contact me for full details.

http://www.cerrolimon.com