Villa Jerez

Reviewed by Michael Soffe



CLASSICAL ELEGANCE ..............

A fifteen minute stroll down wide boulevards from the historic city centre of Jerez finds you in the leafy, wealthy suburbs where, discreetly nestled, is the utterly charming Villa Jerez, the only five star boutique hotel that we feature in the “sherry” city. Situated in its own grounds it is a true oasis and a sense of calm pervades every corner. Even when the Hotel’s 18 bedrooms are full you still feel as if you are in a peaceful private residence. The building is a fine example of a neo-classic two-storey villa dwarfed by towering palm trees.

The cobbled driveway leads you up to the reception from which you get a “peak” at the salon, bar, terrace and gardens beyond. There is a refined air of discretion and the very helpful and service minded staff will attend to your every need. They act as concierge too and will obligingly arrange tours to the sherry bodegas, nights of Flamenco and tickets to the Royal Andalucian Riding School (an entrancing two hour show of the dancing skills of the majestic Andalucian and Arab pure bred horses). The covered terrace off the bar and salon area is a relaxing shaded delight overlooking the lawned gardens.

For those warm summer days there is an inviting salt water swimming pool in the garden. Perfect for the siesta after a morning’s sightseeing in the city or a possible over-indulgence of sherry tasting at the numerous bodegas! There is also a small gymnasium, sauna/steam bath and Scottish shower. Massages are available in your room on request and there is a hairdresser.

The 18 bedrooms are large and lavishly furnished in a classic style. Striped wallpapers and brocaded fabrics give a Georgian feel. They are fully equipped (electric adjustable beds!!!), satellite TV, DVDs (films available in reception), internet access, heating, air-con, safe, mini-bar, bathrobes and slippers. Fruit or chocolates in your room on arrival, a turn down service in the evenings, towels changed twice a day – you will feel pampered. Bathrooms too are luxurious and all rooms have hydro-massage baths and power showers. Pure luxury in the Suites with Hermes toiletries! Several of the rooms have their own terraces or balconies overlooking the gardens or pool area.

Buffet breakfasts are served in the main dining room, spilling out onto the terrace in the warmer months. There is a limited, but very enticing lunch and dinner menu serving a mix of Mediterranean and international cuisine.

An ideal Hotel for those who want a peaceful luxurious retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the centre of Jerez. Just 15 minutes from the airport, it is an ideal city break destination.