Joanna was a welcoming host to her lovely rustic cottage, hidden in the folds of the Park National. Plenty of room for the two of us with a wonderful shaded terrace, perfect for lunch and escaping the hottest times of the day. Open plan living downstairs allowed more than enough space for cooking, with a lovely balcony area leading off the upper living room that was perfect for a relaxing sun downer in the early evening. Oso, the Spanish Sheepdog and the cats were added company.
The local wildlife is not shy. Vultures, white tailed eagles, swifts, lizards, bats (of all sizes), butterflies, beetles, crickets, sheep, frogs and much more can be seen and heard around the valley. We should have packed a guide book on the local fauna and flora as spent lots of time looking up various creatures and plants on the internet.
The local municipal swimming pool is a must if you want to practice your lengths. With lots of beautifully kept grass areas and a stunning view, it's worth making an afternoon visit with a picnic. Just under 10 minutes walk away and ideal for all ages. There is a lovely learner pool for younger swimmers. At 1 euro 50 each it was amazing value!
The very local bar/restaurant is friendly and has a good selection of tapas and main meals but the village also offers lots of places for a quick drink, light lunch or relaxed dinner. The little square has a butcher, baker, fruit and veg shop, cafe and ironmongers. Not always obvious as hidden behind door screens, just look for the locals leaving with their bulging shopping bags. Quite a few supermarkets around the village open Monday to Friday and half day Saturday. The first supermarket as you enter the village (near the Pharmacy and Dia) is open on a Sunday morning for a couple of hours.
A car is essential and once we had mastered the lane up and down to the cottage, enjoyed trips out into the cork forests and white villages that are dotted around the area. A visit to Ronda for our anniversary was a wonderful treat.
The prehistoric caves are worth visiting. Call and book in advance. Again, amazing value for nearly 2 hours underground on a guided tour of the cave paintings and rock formations. 30,000 years of human occupation still totally unspoilt by burger vans and souvenir shops. Wear shoes with a good grip as it can be slippery in places.
All in all, a fantastic get away location with plenty to do in the surrounding area.
