This splendid property is, in fact, one of two adjoining villas. However, it's possible just to rent 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.
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All more-or-less on one floor, one enters to a pretty, rustic style living / dining room, casually comfortable with a sofa and easy chair, a glass fronted wood-burning stove in the corner, a dining table (for six) and TV / DVD and music players. A furnished sun terrace runs along the front of the living room. At the far end is a decently equipped kitchen which, in turn, leads through to a little, furnished side terrace under a cane awning. This is one of the few parts of the property which actually could be overlooked, as there is a neighbouring cottage approx. 150 metres away across the fields. But with so many other, completely private outdoor spaces to choose from, it's not a significant problem.
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Three steps up from the living room takes one through to an attractive little sitting area (with another fabulous antique wood burner and a beautiful mosaic tiling). A bathroom and a twin bedroom lead off. Three more steps up will take you to the master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, another twin bedroom and another bathroom. As elsewhere in the property, warm colours and pretty furnishings have been used. Each of the rooms has its own character, colours and style but each is equally attractive.
At the front, it opens to the swimming pool and surrounding sun terrace. 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.
To the side of the pool area is the extensive lower terrace area with a wooden table (which will comfortably seat twelve) under its grapevine covered canopy providing a wonderful al fresco dining area. 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.
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 (apart from the little cottage that has a view of one side of the villa) 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 (two doubles and one twin), sleeping six, click here. Or, for a larger group you can rent both villas together, click here for more details.
