El Cortijo
This is one of those rare villas that one does not believe could really still exist. Built into the hillside in one of the most breathtaking parts of El Madronal, El Cortijo is an imposing, classical Andalucian villa offering exceptional accommodation and complete seclusion. Many celebrities have stayed here, taking refuge from their hectic pace of life.
At the foot of this magnificent villa lies the fabulous swimming pool. From here there are dramatic views of the surrounding hills and mountains and as the light moves across this landscape, one could never tire of the magnificent scenery.
Accommodation: sleeps 14
2 salons, 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 shower rooms, 2 washrooms
Private pool, maid service twice per week, catering available on request
Because of the spiral staircase, this property may not be suitable for young children
The accommodation is on many levels and is entered through a lovely courtyard which is paved with terracotta tiles and which has as its centrepiece a beautiful fountain. The kitchen, which has arched windows overlooking the courtyard, is so well equipped that it is possible to cater for up to fifty people and celebrate a special occasion. The dining room and upstairs salon occupy the heart of the villa. This is a very sociable area and between the two rooms a wrought iron spiral staircase winds down to the grand salon, which has a spectacular vaulted ceiling reaching the full height of the building. Here there are plenty of comfortable sofas around a magnificent fireplace.
All seven large bedrooms have en suite facilities and are decorated in different themes and schemes. The master suite has a king-size, canopied four-poster bed and a superb en suite bathroom as well as a spacious dressing area. The second principal bedroom, which has wonderful views through large arched windows, also has a four-poster bed, softly draped in delicate white fabrics. Three of the twin bedrooms are in the main part of the house, with three of the remaining four self-contained suites being accessed via the extensive terrace and balcony areas, and the fourth, the tower room, via the central courtyard.
The beautiful swimming pool (11m x 5m) lies at the foot of the property. Here there are plenty of sun loungers on which to relax and while away the day watching the ever-changing landscape as the sun moves silently overhead. The grounds are extensive and retain their natural charm, providing lovely summer dining areas, glorious sunbathing spots and perfect shady sanctuaries in which to absorb and enjoy this wonderful environment.
The architectural scale of this property is immense and the many archways and columns in the rooms and hallways have been beautifully complemented by different styles of interior design. The many pictures, antiques, sculptures and objets dart have been collected by the owner over the years. They all have a history and a story behind them: a carved wooden door from an old palace in Granada, Jacobean chairs found in the flea market, apparently of no importance but later discovered to be a rare historical acquisition.
local towns:
- La Heredia (3 km)
- San Pedro de alcantara (6 km) local beach, shops, restaurants, bars, market on thursday morning.
- Puerto Banus (9 km) marina, shops, excellent night life, restaurants, bars, zoo
- Marbella (15 km) shops, restaurants, sandy beaches, museums, galleries, amusement park
- Estepona (28 km) traditional fishing port, riding centre, nature park, flea market on sunday morning
- Ronda (42 km) ancient historic town, spa baths
- Malaga (58 km) international airport, commercial centre of costa del sol
- Gibraltar (78 km) airport, apes!
- Algeciras (88km) ferry to morocco