The beautiful Molino del Santo nestles in the sprawling Ronda mountains, close to the sleepy white village of Benaoján. An oasis of peace and tranquillity, the converted mill has 18 charming rooms.

They are all well equipped with air conditioning and spectacular views over the Andalucian countryside. An ideal retreat for nature lovers, the family-run hotel recently won a European award for its continued ecological efforts.

Open to non residents for lunch and dinner, the restaurant is particularly popular on Sundays, with many guests drawn to the outside terrace to hear the sounds of the river which flow through the hotel grounds. For a taste of home, the afternoon tea and cream cakes are a guilty pleasure not to be missed.

Bda Estación s/n, 29370 Benaojan
Tel 952 167 151

For some people, rustic means basic, but nothing could be further from the truth at La Posada del Torcal. In 2001 this gorgeous finca was voted “The Most Excellent European Country Hotel” by the prestigious Johansen’s Hotel Guide.

Supremely professional, yet as intimate as a private country house, the hotel has just ten rooms and is the perfect place to get away from it all.

Whether you choose to ensconce yourself in the Zurbarán Suite with its delicately ornate four poster and guzzle champagne with a spectacular view of El Torcal national park, you will find little reason to venture out. The obliging proprietors will even serve dinner in your room - at a price - but the dining room, with just eight tables, is cosy enough for a sumptuous candlelit dinner for two.

The food is the freshest Mediterranean fare, earthy and tasty while the Posada’s spacious and comfortable lounge is ideal for that all important pre-dinner drink.

Fall asleep to the deafening sounds of silence, and wake up to one of the most unspoiled views you could ever wish to see.

The pool awaits you on those lazy summer days or you may like to take to the hills on a horse, play tennis or chill out in the game’s room. Whatever you choose, at La Posada del Torcal, you will feel totally at ease.

Posada del Torcal, Partido de Jeva, Villanueva de la Concepción, Malaga (1 hour’s drive from the Coast).
Tel: 0034 952 031 177