La Almunia del Valle

Reviewed by Laura Dibben



NURTURED BY NATURE……

Intimately set amongst acres of olive and citrus groves in the glorious rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevada National Park lies this lovely ¨almunia¨; the name, of Arabic origin (al-munya), means country residence. From the pretty town of Monachil, just 8km from the centre of Granada, a narrow, winding road leads the way to this peaceful retreat, where the dramatic surroundings offer a playground for the senses. From staggering mountain views and scents of pine, to the sounds of birdsong and trickling streams, this is a nature lover´s paradise; walkers, you will be in your element.

The love and attention that your gracious hosts, Patricia Merino and José Manuel Plana, have lavished on their Hotel shines through in every nook and cranny. A way of life rather than a business, you will be treated like family. Upon building their Almunia, Patricia and José Manuel have taken advantage of the natural surroundings to create a relaxing atmosphere for their guests. Like a balcony overlooking the estate and surrounding valley, a gorgeous 300 square metre stone terrace is ideal for taking in the views from one level, as is the swimming pool from another. The first floor restaurant is a delight, as is the charming salon where books, games and CDs abound. A cosy spot to relax on comfortable sofas next to the flickering fire in the winter.

The 9 comfotable bedrooms, comprised of Superior and Standard Doubles, have been individually and tastefully designed and offer lovely views. The Superior Doubles have private terraces and two of the Standard Doubles also feature terraces. Rooms are rustic at heart with their terracotta tiled floors and tapestries; chic in spirit with modern furnishings, original paintings and warm, bold colours. Room amenities include en-suite bathroom (some with showers, others with bath), internet connection, telephone, central heating and mini-bar. All are air-conditioned with the exception of rooms 9 and 10, which are built into the hill and feature raw stone walls in the bathroom.

Delicious breakfasts of freshly baked breads and pastries from the local bakery, fresh juices plus other regional products are served on the terrace in the summer months, as are romantic candlelit dinners. Patricia uses only the freshest produce in preparing the daily 3-course dinner menu (35€ per person, not including wine) and her culinary talents get rave reviews! The Restaurant is open for dinner Mondays through Saturdays. Lunches are not served at the Hotel, so for mid-day meals and Sunday dinners you will need to drive to the nearest village - it is just 5 minutes from the Hotel.

An ideal Hotel for the sedentary and unsedentary alike. Activities nearby include bicycle hire, hang gliding, rock climbing, hiking and horse riding. Whether following a day´s sightseeing in Granada, a skiing adventure in the Sierra Nevada (just 20km to the nearest piste), or simply lounging by the pool, La Almunia del Valle is a peaceful haven where nature nurtures.