La Fuente de la Higuera

Reviewed by Laura Dibben


RURAL ROMANCE..........

Nestled amongst the olive groves just 8 kilometres from Ronda lies La Fuente de la Higuera. In the foothills of the Sierra de la Nieves mountain range, this immaculately restored 18th Century olive mill breathes romance. A warm welcome awaits, as do spectacular views over the beautifully manicured gardens and the picturesque valley. Like visiting friends, you can expect a totally laid-back atmosphere with highly personalised service.

From unique decorative lamps to potted plants, no stone has been left unturned when it comes to the decor of this Hotel. A cosy interior patio with gorgeous marble floors and wicker furniture topped with fluffy white cushions make a quiet space for relaxing with a book from the library and a drink – or ice cream – from the well-stocked honesty bar. A collection of original art works adorns the walls and feel free to borrow a CD from the fabulous music selection.

The heated swimming pool is situated in the gardens, embraced by green lawns and the scents of lavender in the springtime. A picnic followed by a siesta in the shade under the acacia tree is highly recommended!

Dutch owners, Pom and Tina, have lavished an enormous amount of love and attention on the 11 bedrooms. Individually decorated in Colonial style with flare, they are spacious and uncluttered. All have their own unique character and the attention to detail will not go unnoticed. Wooden floorboards (some even painted to complement the style of a bedroom), cream coloured walls, handsome rugs, tasteful furnishings and delightful accessories make for a calm, soothing atmosphere. Rooms comprise of 2 Luxury Suites, 1 Double Suite, 3 Suites, an Artist´s Suite (all of which feature comfortable sitting rooms with open fireplaces – very romantic for snuggling on a crisp winter´s night) and 3 Stanadard Doubles. All benefit from either terraces or the garden patio, and the Double Suite (sleeping four) – with its fantastic spiral staircase leading up to a second king-size bed – has a ¨very¨ private terrace with its own plunge pool. Most have beautiful views either over the swimming pool and gardens or the glorious countryside. The Standard Doubles open onto the olive grove where trees cling to the hillside. Rooms are centrally heated in the winter and air-conditioned in the hot summer months, and have gorgeous, luminous bathrooms with fluffy towels and king-size beds with oh-so-soft linen . Telephone, CD player, safes and hair dryers are also on the list of amenities. Pom tells me it is not uncommon for honeymooners to love their rooms so much they don´t come out during their entire stay – with a room service menu available all day and rooms this comfortable I can´t say I blame them!

Buffet breakfasts of fresh fruit, rolls and other tasty local produce are served on the terrace in the summer months. If breakfast-in-bed is more your style, do not hesitate to ask – romance comes at no extra charge! A daily 3-course menu of creative Mediterranan cuisine is on offer for dinner.

For more pampering, massages and beauty treatments are available on request. Mountain bikes and an array of activities can also be arranged, as can walking guides for discovering the natural beauty of this walker´s paradise. Ronda is a pretty tourist town full of character. Its monuments and attractions are all within walking distance of each other and make for a lovely outing from the Hotel. The Grazalema Natural Park – a nature lover´s haven – is also a short drive away. Pom, Tina or Frank in reception will be pleased to offer any help in planning your excursions.

An ideal Hotel for a relaxing, romantic getaway in an idyllic rural setting. As their philosophy goes, ¨busy doing nothing¨ are words to live by.