Great Things to Do Near Los Milagros
Enjoy Stunning Views By Day And Night
Lie on a sunbed beside the lovely pool at Los Milagros, and enjoy the views over the countryside and three 'pueblos blancos' (white villages) of Zahara de la Sierra, Algodonales and Olvera. This view, with the twinkling lights and the floodlit churches and castles, is as wonderful at night as during the day.
Live Like A Local
Buy bread from the village bakery and locally-grown fruit, vegetables, cheese and honey from tiny shops in El Gastor. Eat well and cheaply in local restaurants. Join in with the festivals and celebrations. You won't feel like a stranger - here, you will be treated as a friend.
See How The Andalucían Horses Dance
The lovely city of Jerez is an easy drive from El Gastor and there is a lot to do there. Visit the bodegas and see how the wine, sherry and brandy are made. Explore some of the fascinating museums. And don't miss the Royal Equestrian School's special show, 'How The Andalucían Horses Dance'. You can book in advance, so you don't have to queue for tickets.
Beaches, Glorious Beaches
You may be staying in the stunning inland region of Cádiz, but you can still have a day on the beach. And what beaches! Tiny, unspoilt, pine-fringed coves of golden sand, family beaches with water sports and facilities for all ages, huge expanses of white dunes, and the clear, sparkling turquoise water of the Atlantic Ocean are all within an hour and a half's drive from Villa Los Milagros. Enjoy!
See The Setenil Cave Houses
The unusual, picturesque and extremely photogenic village of Setenil is not far from Villa Milagros and is well worth a visit. Marvel at how the houses have been built into overhanging rock, which has been carved out over the centuries by the river which runs through the town. Setenil has some excellent restaurants, some are caves themselves or have outstanding views of the cave houses, and is famed for its olive oil.
Go Walking
There are fabulous walks around El Gastor and in the nearby Grazalema Natural Park, whether you are a keen hiker or just like a bit of fresh air and exercise. You can even go up the impressive-looking mountain which is close to the village; it's a steep walk, but no climbing equipment is needed and the views from the top are... well, indescribable.
Bird Watchers' Paradise
The countryside around Villa Milagros is famous for its variety of birds. Book a guided excursion, drive yourself around and see what you can spot, or just lie in the sun with a drink and a bird book and see what happens to fly past.
See Sevilla
Seville is one of Spain's loveliest cities, and it is only an hour's drive away. Wander the tiny, narrow, winding streets; photograph the flower-filled wrought-iron balconies; visit the elegant palaces; marvel at the cathedral (it's huge!); enjoy a different view by taking a boat trip along the Guadalquivir river; and relax in the sun outside a traditional bar while enjoying a restorative glass of sherry and some tapas.
Food, glorious food
Whether you are looking for somewhere special for a celebration meal, a delightful mid-priced restaurant with a view or some cheap and cheerful country cooking, you will be spoiled for choice. However, the well-equipped kitchen at Villa Los Milagros and its stunning location may well tempt you to cook at home and eat al fresco - with a bottle or two of local wine, naturally!
Cycle along the Green Way
The Via Verde or Green Way runs for 36 kilometers along the old railway line. This is an ecotourism route that can be done on foot, bicycle, horseback, and even donkey! This permits hikers to contemplate exuberant nature, valuable plant and animal species and the most beautiful landscape.
Roman Ronda
Visit the Roman ruins at nearby Acinipo, a few kilometres from El Gastor. This was an important town which minted its own coins, and the theatre is still well-preserved. There are also the remains of a Bronze Age settlement at the entrance.
Discover the wonderful views of Ronda
One of Ronda’s most popular short walks takes you to the ancient cave church, the Virgen de la Cabeza. Here is where the most spectacular views of Ronda and its gorge can be seen.
Spot the birdie
Discover the birds of the Serranía de Ronda, in groups of 2 to 4 people, accompanied by a highly personalised guided birding tour with a guide who enjoys the subject as much as you. Expert or beginners welcomed.http://www.spanishnature.com/serrania-de-ronda.html
Shop for local crafts
Especially in nearby Ronda, Grazalema and Zahara, there are some charming small craft shops selling unique art objects, ceramics, rugs and baskets made from olive branches and grasses. You can also buy leather goods, glazed tiles and beautiful wool shawls hand-woven locally.
