Set in beautiful countryside on the very southern tip of Spain, "Huerta
Las Terrazas" is a tranquil and resplendent country house
situated on the edge of the vast Los Arcornocales Natural Park.
Its a superb location, high on the coastal hills with views directly across
the Straits of Gibraltar to the Rif Mountains and coastal beaches of Morocco.
The Mediterranean is at its narrowest point here, with just 14 kilometres
of sea dividing Europe from Africa. Morocco is so close that you feel that you
can almost reach out and touch it. The ever-changing palette of light and colours
just adds to what is already an inspirational view.
They
offer three ensuite double bedrooms on a bed and breakfast basis. The ground
floor room has its own entrance and a secluded reading area outside. The two upstairs
rooms look out to open skies and, of course, to the continent of Africa.
All three rooms are furnished in a comfortable manner, using calm colours,
soft fabrics and traditional furniture. Water supplied to the rooms is freshly
drawn from the property's own spring.
There is also a communal sitting
room, furnished with comfortable leather sofas, a good place to relax in front
of the log fire in winter. There is a selection of books to choose from.
An attractive dining area leads off, although in warmer weather breakfast is usually
served al fresco, under the covered porch which adjoins the house.
The three acres of grounds are delightful. There are seven terraces, each offering differing areas of sanctuary and beauty.
The gardens are lit at night. Relax under the shade of the cork trees or sunbathe
by fragrant mimosa. Towering palms, vibrant flowers, fig, orange and pear trees
enrich the lush grounds.
The swimming pool is set back from the house,
a 50 metre stroll away along a winding little path through the gardens. The pool
is constantly replenished with fresh spring water that descends from the mountains
behind.
Owners Alistair and Amy will extend a warm and courteous welcome to you, offering
you as much attention - or as much space - as you want. Amy is an ITEC qualified
masseuse and offers Reiki and Cranio-Sacral Therapy for anyone who really
wants to relax completely.
Within easy reach are unspoilt beaches, ancient Roman ruins in
Bolonia and cosmopolitan Tarifa, renowned for its wind and kite surfing. In the
opposite direction, Gibraltar is just 20 minutes away. Venture inland and the
countryside will provide a wealth of opportunities to walk, climb, ride and explore.
The local area has a broad selection of restaurants
from traditional tapas to contemporary cuisine to chose from. Tarifa offers you the opportunity
to ride horses along windswept beaches, surf the waves, climb rock faces and mountain
bike in the hills. November to May is the best time for walkers to see the wealth
of wild flowers that grow in the area. If you like golf, you are near to more
than a dozen courses including Valderama, voted Europe’s top golf course and host
to the Ryder Cup Tournament.