The Old Mill Jabugo

The villa

This beautiful four - bedroom country villa, set in a nature reserve in northwestern Andalusia, is a gem of a place. Originally an olive mill, it has been lovingly converted yet still retains much of its original charm and character. Colourful mosaics and a stylish wrought iron door extend an elegant welcome to the property with stairs leading to the vast kitchen on the first floor. Well - equipped and drenched in natural light, the kitchen is a sociable space with an eight - seater breakfast bar and a 10 - seater hardwood dining table. The large corner sofa also invites you to sit and chat with friends and family while soaking up the views of the glorious valley.

From the kitchen, red - tiled flooring sweeps through to a high - ceilinged sitting room. Adorned with artefacts from various parts of the world, including rugs from South America and pictures from India, it's the perfect room to relax in. On chilly nights, grab a book from the adjacent library and curl up on the leather sofa in front of the fireplace. There’s even under - floor heating for additional comfort! One of the bedrooms is located on this floor and features a king - size bed, built - in cupboards, an en - suite shower room and more glorious views. Three other bedrooms are located on lower levels and can be accessed via the hall. All are light and airy with unfussy decor, whitewashed walls, and shuttered windows.

While the interior is effortlessly serene, the outdoor space is simply magnificent. With three terraces and a rolling hillside, there's plenty of space to enjoy. Start the day with a coffee on the upper east terrace while watching the sunrise over the treetops, then plunge into the swimming pool. Afterwards, enjoy a game of petanque on the private pitch or cool off in one of the dipping pools. There's even an orchard if you fancy picking your own fresh figs, pears, and oranges. Alternatively, you might want to take it easy on a sun lounger and enjoy the sound of birdsong in the surrounding oak and olive trees.

After a day of fun and relaxation, congregate on the western terrace for some enchanting sunset views over the town of Cortegana. Later, feast al fresco at the large dining table and watch as the stars light up the sky. This is a magical place for those seeking rest and relaxation. However, there are amenities nearby, with the small town of Jabugo just a 5 - minute walk away. Jabugo is famous for its ham, and you can sample it at the local bars, restaurants, and shops. As mentioned in...

The Old Mill Jabugo is located in the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche National Park in northwest Andalucia. Surrounded by oak, olive and fruit trees and overlooking a valley, the stunning landscape is the real drawcard here. There are a number of walking trails in the area, and bird watchers can enjoy spotting goldfinches, woodpeckers and white storks. Alternatively, explore the surrounding area on horseback or spend an afternoon mushroom picking in the woods.

From the villa, a track leads to the small town of Jabugo. Famous for producing the finest ham in the world ( jamon de bellota ), be sure to stop at one of the local restaurant or tapas bars to sample the delicious cured ham. Afterwards, follow the Casita de Ladrillo hiking trail from the town centre. It’s a short walk, and children will love discovering the houses ( casitas ) of the three little pigs that are placed along the way.

Spain's Moorish past is evident in the surrounding towns of the Sierra, and there is plenty to see and do in each one. For a day out, head to Aroche. Close to the Portuguese border and 25 minutes by car from the villa, this pretty town is dotted with whitewashed houses and has an impressive medieval castle and church. Be sure to stop at the local museum and discover prehistoric and Roman artefacts that have been discovered in the surrounding area.

From Aroche, a 12km walking trail leads to Cortegana. It's a delightful walk through nature, and you’ll spot plenty of birds on the way, including tits, eagles and (if you’re lucky) the rare black vulture. Cortegana is one of the larger towns in the area and boasts a thirteenth - century castle that dominates the hilltop. Climb to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views of the Sierra.

Aracena, the main town of the Sierra, is also worth a visit and is a 25 - minute drive from the villa. Situated in the heart of the national park, the town is famous for its cave system ( Gruta de las Maravillas ). Take a guided tour inside the caves and be amazed at the chambers, lakes and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Back on ground level, the thirteenth - century castle and beautiful Gothic church are also quite magnificent.