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The sun-drenched beauty of Andalucía's beaches entices many visitors to the region each year, but inland from these sandy beauties lies a meatier, more colourful Spain of bullfights, flamenco, good food and fiestas at every opportunity. The majority of accommodation in Andalucía is along the coast, to accommodate the sun and sand visitors, but for something a little more untouched and much less crowded our hotel experts have compiled a collection of Andalucía's best rural hotels. From olive grove set fincas, to grand country house hotels, to retreats in the middle of National Parks our collection has something to suit most tastes. So why not browse through our list to start planning your next getaway?
For luxury
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- Finca La Donaira is a luxury eco-retreat located on an organic farm. Guest suites showcase the simplicity of natural materials, using adobe headboards and wooden bedside tables to complement the exposed stone walls of the traditional Cortijo. Relax and rejuvenate in the hotel's natural spring pool; a rejuvenating stay.
For couples
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- DDG Retreat is an adults-only hideaway located in stunning countryside, yet just 15 minutes from the coast. Two individually designed luxury suites boast epic views, outdoor tubs, plunge pools and private terraces with day beds. A seriously spoiling intimate property.
- La Almendra Y El Gitano is a beautiful oasis amidst the arid Andalusian landscape. A labour of love, this owner-managed property is oozing with charm. Elegant rooms are all white-on-white with exposed beams, and the best have huge in-room tubs. A romantic spot to unwind in utter tranquillity.
For a rural hideaway
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- Cortijo La Haza is a charming property situated about an hour west of Granada in the heart of hidden Andalucia. You can find the property nestled amongst olive groves and it has views that will take your breath away. Come here to explore on horseback or on foot, alternatively choose your lounger and relax by the pool with a good book!
- The Hacienda de San Rafael (located in countryside between Seville and Jerez) comes from the former olive estate category, and has elegant Anglo-Spanish interiors, with all the mod cons. If you're looking for the last word in rustic chic you'll find it behind this brilliant white facade, in romantic gardens, or floating in one of the hacienda's three pools…
- La Fuente de la Higuera is a peaceful converted olive mill to the north of Ronda, and one of Andalucía's best rural hotels to be busy doing nothing in. There are gardens around a lovely pool, a restaurant on the terrace, a library and spectacular views.
- There's nothing quite like looking out over a field of sunflowers, and that's one of Cortijo Las Piletas offerings. They also cater for lunchtime picnics, you're close to the fantastic walking opportunities of Grazalema Park, and you're only 50kms from the beaches of the Costa del Sol. Comfortable and charming, and on expansive grounds, this is also a good option for families.
- Casona Granado is a charming little hotel with a popular restaurant in an old hilltop village above Mojacar, surrounded by fabulous walking country. Boasting a lovely outdoor pool in the pretty garden, inside you can expect tasteful traditional decor while chic rooms are rustic with exposed beams and stonework. An idyllic base.
- Molino del Arco is an 18th-century olive mill that has maintained much of its original architecture. The rooms are a clever mix of traditional design with a fresh contemporary finish. Sunbathe by the pool, explore nearby Ronda, and taste the delicious local cuisine. Rural perfection.
- Casa La Siesta is a carefully renovated farmhouse turned luxury small hotel not far from Vejer de la Frontera. Set on acres of grounds with unspoilt views, it is the perfect place to simply unwind by the pool and dine on delicious, fresh local produce in the evenings.
For a remote location
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- Have a look at the map and you'll see that there's nothing for miles around the 500-year-old whitewashed farmhouse which has been converted into Cortijo el Guarda. And the views are of uninterrupted loveliness. Away from everything yes, but also a great spot for day trips to the main cities in the region.
- If you want the beach, but also to be away from everything the Cortijo Los Malenos is the one to book. Only 4kms from the Med, and within the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, this Cortijo has a welcoming, homely feel.
- Fountainhead is perfect for couples looking for a romantic spot away from the crowds. There are just four suites, decorated with understated style.
- Posada Finca La Fronda is a lovely Andalusian style hotel in the middle of a nature reserve. Contemporary elegant rooms feature fireplaces and creamy furnishings. Expect cosy sitting rooms, a sun-trap pool, and an excellent table d'hote. A great choice for nature lovers
For great value
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- Hacienda El Santiscal is a charmingly renovated 15th-century Andalusian hacienda where you can take a step back in time and is located close to Arcos de la Frontera. Outside there are lovely gardens with pool, while simple interiors are airy with plenty of original period features. A reasonably priced rural getaway.
For foodies
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- Finca Buenvino is a great place to stay if you like to feel like you're spending your holiday as a guest amongst friends — It's got just five rooms. The dining is communal and takes place on the wonderful terrace. Owned by a family, one of whom is a cordon bleu cook who's very happy to share her knowledge, or just her food.
- Barcelo La Bobadilla is a fairytale looking five-star estate, built more like a small village and surrounded by a thousand acres of private land. As well as the palatial rooms packed with Moorish art, there are also wonderfully secluded courtyards to discover, and very fine dining.
- Hotel Al Lago is a family run boutique property located not far from Ronda. Individually styled rooms are spacious and light with soft hues, local textiles and simple contemporary furniture. The atmospheric restaurant serves exemplary regional fare, and offers lake views. Pick this for an authentic stay.
For hotels outside Granada
- Cortijo del Marques is just 18kms from Granada, but in such a peaceful spot, with such uninterrupted views that it feels much further. A country house hotel in traditional Spanish style, this is Andalucía's best rural hotel if you prefer a unique boutique hotel.
For the Sierra Nevada
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- La Almunia del Valle is a fantastic guesthouse in the hills of Sierra Nevada National Park — ideal for an active getaway. The building is traditional, but inside the fusion of the original and the modern is clever, comfortable and appealing.
Still not sure where to book?