Almond Hill House

Step inside to cheerful rooms with soft seating, lots of books, a wood-burner and a homely feel. Under the wisteria is a gorgeous outdoor seating area with views over the pool and mountains – a lovely place to read a book, chat, sip a glass of wine, or eat. By the pool there is plenty of room for sunbathing on a lounger but you’re free to roam anywhere in the gardens and find a quiet place.

Bedrooms, one upstairs with its own terrace, one suitable for wheelchair users (there are ramps to all areas) are very comfortable, with air con and ceiling fans, tiled floors and pretty fabrics – it sleeps up to 11; bathrooms are fresh and light. The open-plan kitchen will please cooks and there’s room for joiners in – you’ll also find some local or homegrown food to welcome you.

The walking is sublime and you can set off along an old goat path to Órgiva in 20 minutes for bars, restaurants, shops and a Thursday market.