If you are seeking a fabulous weekend break or a birthday or anniversary treat, look no further than Southern Spain and Mallorca. We can recommend some delightful small hotels and haciendas which we have hand-picked for atmosphere, interesting architecture and their proximity to areas of interest. Stay for a long weekend or as part of a longer holiday and enjoy the sunshine!

 Fiona’s ideal places to stay

Andalucia

In Andalucia, think Hacienda de San Rafael. Situated about 40 minutes’ drive from Seville, this beautifully restored former olive mill is set in the heart of sunflower farmland. The cobbled yard and bell tower are just some of the original features, with thoughtfully decorated rooms built around the courtyard in Andalucian style. Gorgeous garden casitas and a luxury villa with private pool await those looking for extra privacy. Spend your time riding, exploring or simply relaxing by the pool and end the day with a spectacular dinner served by candlelight in the old whitewashed barn. Close by, and worth a visit, are the Royal Andalucian Equestrian School and famous sherry houses of Jerez. The Sierra de Grazalema and Coto Donana National Park are superb for hiking and birdwatching respectively.

Another option is the magnificent cortijo (farmhouse) of La Posada Del Torcal which sits boldly on a hilltop with far-reaching views down to the coast at Malaga a few kilometres away. Each boutique bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and finca style decor. La Posada is a good base for hiking or cycling in the nearby El Torcal National Park, birdwatching, golf, riding, kayaking or simply relaxing round the pool. More energetic guests can make a day trip to Cordoba and Granada. 

Corral del Rey is located in the heart of Seville, in the old quarter of Barrio Alfalfa, five minutes walk from the Cathedral. The original 17th Century Casa Palacio has been meticulously restored and converted into a small private luxury hotel, with a vibrant bar and restaurant.  Situated around the galleries of the central courtyard are six bedrooms, each with creative design and state-of-the-art sound and vision system.  There is a roof terrace, plunge pool and art gallery.  Relax with a massage or beauty treatment or book a private guide and visit the best sights of Seville.

There is much for the visitor to see in Seville, most notably its immense cathedral, one of the largest in the world; La Giralda, the adjoining 12th century tower (originally the mosque’s minaret) and the Torre de Oro on the banks of the River Guadalquivir — one of the city’s major landmarks.  Make time also for the Alcázar (fortress) from the Muslim-era (dating from AD 913), the spectacular Plaza de España with its fountains, mini-canals and tilework representing all the provinces of Spain and the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza — Seville’s bullring.

Mallorca

 Mallorca’s luxurious boutique Valldemossa Hotel is built on the old estate of S’Olivaret with truly magical Spanish ambience. It has stunning views of the Tramuntana Mountains, valleys and olive groves below, and the historical Valldemossa Monastery is close by. The hotel has beautiful rooms and suites, indoor and outdoor pools, terraced gardens and an excellent fine-dining restaurant.