Casa Olea

Casa Olea, Near Priego de Cordoba, Andalucia, Spain - Explore & Book

"A quintessential vision of Andalucia: undulating olive groves, limestone outcrops topped by Arab watchtowers, eagles wheeling overhead and that glorious sense of space. It's easy to see why English owners Tim and Claire chose to build their Shangri La in this leafy valley in the unspoilt Subbética hills then named it after the olea europaea (olive tree). He worked as a tour guide in Latin America, she with a swish hotel group, and with their shared nous they have fashioned this former cortijo into a remote rural retreat where the beauty is in every detail. First to greet you will be Ruby, a lolloping mutt who's the third member of the Olea triumvirate. Moving inside things feel big and airy, with a spectacular double-height stairwell leading up to the 6 simple, stylish and surprisingly cheap bedrooms. For a large part of the year life gravitates to a river-facing terrace where you're accompanied by birdsong during the day and the call of a Scops owl when darkness falls. It's a perfect base for escapism; Tim has mapped out walking routes and cycle rides straight from the house, and there are fascinating villages on your doorstep for day visits. And we applaud Olea's eco approach, in which recycling and sustainability play lead roles. Highs You're far from the madding crowd in beautiful walking country, yet Córdoba and Granada are within easy driving range The house is infused with a relaxed vibe and Tim and Claire are friendly, caring hosts Dinners, served 6 nights a week, are a celebration of local produce and highlight the best Andalucian culinary creations There's a pool with a view, loungers and hammocks, plus a cosy sitting room with a log fire Underfloor heating throughout the house is a big plus when temperatures drop in the cooler months Lows There are no restaurants within walking distance, so you'll need to drive for meals on the night when dinner isn't served at the casa No children under the age of 6 are allowed, except when the whole house is booked The pool is unheated" - Guy Hunter Watts