Costa del Sol / Finca Cortesin

A sense of place

A melting pot of design influences, Finca Cortesin is a heady product of its location. Wisteria-lined pathways wind through Moorish arches to arrive at wood-carved doors salvaged and restored from Portuguese monasteries. Meanwhile, inside, Moroccan-inspired courtyards are resplendent with bold prints and craning palm fronds that gently graze the shoulders of the discerning guests as they stroll past. Its position also means it’s easy to give up a day or two exploring a little further afield. To the north, there’s the only authorised tour to explore dunes, beaches, marshes and forests of Doñana National Park, or south to the British overseas territory of Gibraltar, or even further southward to Tangier, the gateway to Africa.

In pursuit of…

…an exclusive ambience and unapologetic ease. There’s a sophistication and elegance here that makes you feel good just being there. A pocket of Andalucía where desires are met before even being voiced, this is a place dedicated to delivering a certain kind of relaxation that’s rooted in the impeccably high standards of its attentive staff. Resident personal trainer and former tennis coach from the ATP circuit, Javier Contreras, is just one of them, and offers personalised fitness programmes based on individuals and their goals.

A Carrier curation

A stay in this region wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Ronda. One of Spain’s oldest cities, its unusual geography leaves it divided in two and perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the gorge of Guadalevin River. The three bridges that connect Ronda are dramatic feats of engineering. Carved into the craggy rock face, these smooth, stone structures seem to defy all reason yet remain a steadfast spectacle. History can be further explored with a private guide at UNESCO World Heritage sites, The Alhambra and the Albaycín of Granada, a two hour chauffeured ride away.