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.
Hidden Gems in Andalucia 