El Huertecillo

Just a 10 minute drive from the pretty ‘pueblo blanco’ of El Gastor, amidst idyllic scenery of olive-studded slopes, a 1.5km stretch of unmade lane led us to one of the most stunningly positioned homes we have had the privilege to offer: a charming country hideaway, prettily clad in local stone, with captivating views across the shimmering waters of the Embalse de Zahara lake to the castle-topped village of Zahara de la Sierra.

Completing this picture-postcard vista, the undulating peaks of the Sierra de Grazalema National Park rise imposingly beyond the lake to create the most absorbing of outlooks for the generously proportioned house and grounds, which offer ample space and an ideal retreat for a relaxing holiday. From the open plan living room with its high beamed ceiling, inset with attractive curved terracotta tiles, the impressive panorama is perfectly captured through the wide window and patio doors that line its lake-facing facade. In the adjacent kitchen, pretty views can be enjoyed across flowerbeds and a covered terrace at the side of the house, whilst the shaded front porch has been thoughtfully furnished with a large table and chairs from which the remarkable backdrop provided by the local mountains of El Algarín and Las Grajas can be fully appreciated.

Outside, the large terraces and private pool area provide a spacious setting in which to relax, with lovingly tended flowerbeds creating an eye-catching and colourful surround; a pleasingly extensive area for parking is also home to a quirky collection of cactus plants; to the side of the house a rose-covered shaded pergola with comfortable seating is sure to become a favourite spot for reading or admiring the evening sunsets over the lake.

In such a picture-perfect setting, you could be forgiven for not wanting to venture far, but this fascinating region with its many picturesque whitewashed villages offers much to explore within a short drive. One such pretty ‘pueblo blanco’ is El Gastor, just 3.5km away, and here you will find all amenities including a local baker, grocery stores and a lively square providing an ideal setting for soaking up the village atmosphere from one of its friendly cafes or restaurants. Within a 35-minute drive you can reach the charming, historic city of Ronda, an absolute must-see for any visitors to the area. For the more energetic, kayaks can be rented on the lake in the summer months whilst the Sierra de Grazalema National Park is a beautiful area where nature lovers will enjoy the vast array of birdlife. Don’t forget your binoculars!