This splendid property is, in fact, one of two adjoining villas. However, it's possible to rent just this one; the other property will be closed, guaranteeing you complete privacy and exclusive use of the pool and grounds.
The villa is just below the pretty village of Comares, which perches in spectacular fashion on top of its fortress-like rock face. A short, if rather bumpy, three minute drive down a secluded track from the village brings you to this haven of peace and tranquility set within its own 2½ acres of grape, almond and olive producing land. The views from this fabulous vantage point are superb, taking in broad sweeps of mountain terrain both to the east and west; the mountain ranges are separated to the south by a broad stretch of the Mediterranean coastline.
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South facing, the villa opens to the inviting swimming pool area, a huge dining terrace and to the splendid panorama of mountains, sun and sea which unfolds in front of you. It's a very special location and the property offers quality to match. The English owners have both imagination and style and it shows everywhere. With their inherent good taste and quality craftsman's skills they have carefully created a really lovely home, one which is very comfortable and fully functional yet retains all its Andalusian countryside charm.
The villa is on two floors. Steps down from the private parking area above the property bring you along a neatly planted back terrace which leads on to the first floor entrance at the back of the house. One enters directly to the spacious, fully equipped kitchen / dining room which has a calm and tranquil feel to it, the lovely natural light enhancing the room's soft colours under its high, beamed ceiling.
Furnishings include a splendid, antique wood-burning stove and beautifully crafted dining table and chairs. A large window looks down over the swimming pool and double doors open to the shaded verandah / terrace which runs along the entire length of this first floor . . . just one of many places here where the magnificent, 180 degree vista opens up around you!
From the kitchen, a passageway leads on to the three bedrooms. There are two doubles (both with en-suite bathrooms) and one twin bedroom. They are all pretty, subtly colourful and cheerful, all tastefully decorated and furnished. The master bedroom (with king-sized double) also opens to the first floor verandah and has its own en-suite full bathroom. The other two bedrooms share a large bathroom (with built in shower, no bathtub) between them.
Stairs go down from the kitchen to a spacious (9 m x 5 m) and very welcoming living room on the lower floor. With its beamed ceiling, terracotta floor tiles and its dark, cherry-red and white walls its a delightfully calm and comfortable space. Three matching sofas are gathered around a coffee table in front of the fireplace and the room is finished with some attractive antique furnishings, satellite TV, a music/CD system, books and games. It's all very tasteful.
Double doors open to the lower terrace area in front of the house. This is another extensive space, with bench seating under the shaded terrace which runs the length of the property, opening to an al fresco dining area with a wooden table (which will comfortably seat twelve) under its grapevine covered canopy. There's a barbecue at one end; at the other the terrace leads round, past a huge palm tree, to the swimming pool and sun deck with its loungers and sunshades.
The pool is 8 m x 3 m, easily accessed by wide steps at one end. It has a salt filtration system, so no chlorine is used. There's plenty of space all around to soak up the sun or to find a bit of shade if and when you prefer. The whole terrace area is either walled or railed so is completely safe. And beyond is that wonderful view, down to the coast far below.
In such a beautiful spot as this its inevitable that there are other properties around, dotted about here and there on the surrounding hillsides. But there's nothing which overlooks the property. Here your privacy and seclusion is guaranteed. And there's no passing traffic to spoil the tranquility.
You will be tempted just to stay home, self-cater and relax around the large sun-soaked pool terrace. But there's plenty more to do from here. A 20 minute walk will take you up to the village of Comares, little changed over the years, still quiet and far enough from the coast to remain properly Spanish. It's a village with authentic character and spectacular views, one which caters for basic everyday needs: you will find a supermarket, post office, pharmacy, restaurant, tapas bars and a couple of banks within its narrow winding streets.
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Further afield, the world famous La Alhambra in Granada is a must visit (pre-booking is essential) and the city itself is not to be missed, either. Along the coast is Nerja, its heart being the spectacular Balcon de Europa, a magnificent promenade with sweeping views of the Mediterranean and small coves and beaches. Nerja boasts 16 kilometres of beaches with powdery sand and sparkling clear water. All major water sports are available here, including water-skiing, scuba diving and sailing.
Another great day out and a favourite with many guests staying here is the Water Park at Velez Malaga, only 30 minutes drive away. To the east of the property is the Natural Park, Las Sierras de Tajeda, dominated by the 2,080 metre high Mount Maroma. This is superb hiking country and its numerous steep crags make it ideal for aspiring rock climbers.
So, there's something for everyone around here! All the thrills and spills of the Med, meadows and mountains as far as the eye can see, little white-washed pueblos where life carries on in timeless tradition. Not to mention the culture and mesmeric history of Andalucia's great cities. Wherever you go, you will delight in returning to the beautiful views and peaceful tranquility of this lovely holiday home in the hills.
The other (adjoining) villa is also available on the same terms and for the same price. Whichever one you choose, the other will be closed. For details of the other villa, which also has three bedrooms (one double and two twin bedded), sleeping six, click here. Or, for a larger group you can rent both villas together, click here for more details.
