CASA DE ALMENDRAS

CASA DE ALMENDRAS was lovingly restored in Spring 2015. The house is a typical Alpujarran design with chestnut beams, white washed walls and hand-made terracotta floors. We've added some modern touches like air-con in the living room and a well equipped, hand-made kitchen.

The gardens provide plenty of opportunity to relax and recharge. Spacious and beautifully landscaped with internal dry stone walls and orange, lemon, almond and olive trees. There are several large shady terraces of over 150 metres, with comfortable seating areas and a 6 by 4 metre swimming pool filled with fresh mountain spring water.

THE CORTIJO has amazing views, nestling in a rural and private location but not isolated. A 10 minute stroll will take you into the bustling market town of ORGIVA where you can find a good choice of banks, supermarkets and restaurants. A bohemian, international community makes this traditional Spanish town come alive, especially on Thursday market day when everyone is trying to sell their hand-crafted wares. It's also a great location to base an exploration of this unique and unspoilt region.

THE PROPERTY is south facing, with breath-taking views of the SIERRA LUJAR mountains to the front and the SIERRA NEVADA to the rear. As late as April you can sit in the sun next to a tree dripping with lemons and in the distance see the snow capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. A place of extremes, in the Spring some ski on the GRANADA slopes in the morning and drive 40 mins back to swim in the pool in the afternoon (though we have yet to try it!).

In addition to the house there is a utility room near the pool area with a second large fridge for drinks and ice, along with a barbecue for el fresco dining.

The property has 3 bedrooms; one double with a kingsize bed, another double with two single beds and a third bedroom with a daybed that converts into a large double or stays as a single.

** We only allow four guests, as we have just one bathroom. It does mean though that friends or siblings can have their own room.

Please note the swimming pool is not fenced off and there is no shallow end.

THINGS TO DO

LAS ALPUJARRAS is an unspoilt region of Andaulcia with plenty to keep you occupied if you tire of sunning yourself by the pool. For those who want to abandon the car there's plenty to do right on the doorstep. The area is famous for its hiking, biking and horse riding trails. We can put you in touch with the best local guides and businesses in the area.

If you want to venture farther afield there's plenty to explore. There are too many great places to mention here but the highlights are;

- A 20 min drive up the mountains to the famous white villages of Pampaneira, Bubion and Capileira where artisans keep alive centuries old local crafts. There's lots of independent shops selling their wares, excellent restaurants and beautiful mountain walks.

- In the opposite direction, drive for 35 mins to the Costa Tropical and eat barbecued sardines on the beaches of Salobrena, swim and watch a spectacular sunset. Explore the quieter more secluded coves where it's a snorkelers paradise.

- The city of Granada is a mere 40 min drive away and well worth a visit. Wander around the Albaicin's maze of ancient streets, sample the tapas, visit the Alhambra Palace and indulge yourself at the luxurious Arab Baths.

GETTING THERE: The nearest airport is MALAGA and it takes just under 1hr 30 mins to drive. ORGIVA is 8 miles off the main E15 highway travelling north from MALAGA. It is clearly signed off the main road from both directions.

CAR HIRE: We use MALAGA CAR and book through the internet. They're good value for money and reliable. They run courtesy buses from the airport and are just 2 mins away. We can pass on their contact details.

MEET AND GREET: Guests will be greeted by SERGIO and CELIA - a young Spanish couple who look after the house in our absence. Sergio is in charge of the garden and general maintenance and is available if there are problems during your stay. Celia is the house-keeper and will do any additional cleans during your stay. She can also do a food shop in advance of your stay.

Casa de Almendras is a licensed and legal tourist let - which means it has met the standards set down by the Andalucian Tourist Board.