Secrets of Andalucia

Highlights

This is quintessential and timeless Andalucia: walking through stunning white villages, and olive-planted hillsides, our paths are a riot of colour - poppies, wild iris, jasmine and pink oleander - and there's a good chance of spotting golden eagles soaring overhead.

Finca el Cerillo, Canillas de Albaida

Situated in the heart of the southern Andalucian province of Axarquia, and on the edge of the Tejeda National Park, the Finca el Cerrillo is an absolute gem of a place to stay. Run by Sue and Gordon Kind along with manager - chef, Christine, and dog, Basil, it is a comfortably restored 200-year old farmhouse (it was used as an olive mill between 1805 and 1960).

There are just twelve individually styled air-conditioned en-suite rooms - all south-facing - and tea/coffee making facilities are provided in all. The living areas include a wonderfully atmospheric beamed lounge - cool in the summer and kept cosy on winter nights with blazing log fire - dining room, small library and 'honesty' bar. Outside, the terraced gardens, with 100-year old carob and palm trees surround both sunny and shaded patios. The pool affords stunning views of the valley below and the pretty Moorish village of Archez with its 13th century Moorish tower.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor.

Hotel Dauro II, Granada

This modern 3* hotel is situated in an ideal position, just 200 metres from the Cathedral and a 2-minute walk from the Plaza Mariana Pineda, the location of the municipal tourist office.

The hotel itself offers 53 modern and well-equipped rooms with a few traditional touches. Facilities include air-conditioning, direct dial telephones, colour television and hairdryer.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor

Hotel Becquer, Seville

The 4-star Hotel Becquer is a lovely hotel, with lots of original features, and is just 10 minutes' walk from the historic old quarter and cathedral. It's quite a large hotel (over 100 rooms) that has recently been refurbished so that all rooms now offer satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer, minibar, internet connection and air conditioning. There is a large airy lounge with plenty of seating, a breakfast room and attached tapas bar.

Further details on the hotel website.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor