| It has been said that it is given
to few to create a paradise - however at this outstanding home
one could be forgiven for believing this had been achieved.
This tucked away high in the Sierra Morena north of Seville,
at first sight resembles a small white, walled village. It is
built much as a traditional cortijo, the huge main gates giving
on to a tiled courtyard lined with massive and ancient olive
jars. Leading off this are a series of flower-strewn terraces
heavy at night with the scent of lavender, mimosa, rose and
jasmine. It is incredibly peaceful, the silence disturbed only
by the distant tinkling of sheep bells or the cooing of doves
on a bedroom roof.
Built in the 16th Century, this finca was once at the heart
of a large estate and even now is surrounded by a thousand
acres of its own olive trees. Abandoned during the Civil War
it has now been converted and renovated by the artistry and
imagination of the present owner. It provides cool, soothing
and excitingly luxurious accommodation in a style all its
own - a mixture unifying Moorish, Spanish and English. White-washed
walls feature as do Moorish archways, stunning tiles and wonderful
fabrics and artefacts collected from far and wide.
It is little wonder this glorious property has been featured
in numerous magazines - and it is to our delight that you
are able to rent this exceptional home. The family still live
in the main house in the cortijo, but very separately from
the guest accommodation wings, which have their own vast drawing
room, suites and terraces. Cobbled paths lead to olive groves
and oak forests, to a tennis court and to the walled swimming-pool
garden which has a tented seating area for those seeking the
shade and a vine covered terrace perfect for lunch. (The table
here can double as a ping pong table!) There is much to explore,
either on foot or on horse, in the wooded, rolling Andalucian
countryside with its lakes and waterfalls ideal for day outings,
picnics and river swimming. The vibrant local town has numerous
bars and restaurants and frequently stages the colourful and
noisy fiestas so beloved by the Spanish. In the summer there
is a Romeria (a pilgrimage made either on foot or horseback)
and other fiestas in the otherwise sleepy, traditional, white
Andalucian villages which dot the surrounding hills.
This is a haven for those seeking tranquillity - but is also
ideal for family parties, groups of friends or for celebrating
a special occasion such as a wedding, birthday or anniversary.
With advance notice, Painting, Spanish and Tennis lessons
can be arranged as well as Yoga, Massage and Aromatherapy
treatments. The ancient city of Seville, which is two hours
from Madrid by fast train) is only 1 hour away and Cordoba
1 hour 30 minutes.
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