Al Lago is a new boutique hotel situated in the heart of the stunning Sierra de Grazalema. Each of its bedrooms overlooking the spring and stream fed lake of Zahara. A combination of rustic charm with modern amenities and luxuries and a restaurant renowned for its contemporary Spanish cuisine and use of organic, local produce. See our web site or call us on 0034 956 123 032
El-Andaluz House Rentals and Sales
Self catering Watermill and village houses in the white village of Grazalema, at the heart of the Parque Natural "Sierra de Grazalema". Stunning country side. Selected houses also for sale
Casa rural - Huerta la Terrona "Huerta la Terrona" with more than 300 years of history, offers a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere and all the modern conveniences our guests can expect in a contemporary Country House. A two story building with five large guest rooms, three on the upper floor and one on the main floor, affords maximum comfort for our guests. Each bedroom includes mattresses and linens of the highest quality, unique décor, a private bathroom, individual heating units and magnificent views of the Park, in particular of the mountain pass “Puerto de las Palomas”.
Grazalema feria season kicks off on the 18th of July with the "Lunes de Cuerda de Toro". Now, if you are not into watching a bull tied to a long rope being dragged around the streets by people who ought to know better then you can give this one a miss. If, however this type of culture is for you then get to Grazalema as early as you can in the mornings.... The "Safe" area is in the main square which has iron bars across the entrances to stop the bull entering. Also be aware that the road through the village will be closed on and off through the weekend. If you get stuck in the road block then just get out of the car find a bit of shade and admire the incredible views across the village to the Sierras. Lunes de Toro is from the 18th to the 20th July.
The Patron saint of all Ferias and Fiestas in Montecorto is ''La Virgen del Carmen'', Patron saint of Fishermen. Now it may seem strange that a village in rural inland Spain and at least 75km from the sea has the Patron saint of Fishermen, so we ask some of the elders in the village to which we had the reply ''Como siempre'' because it always has been. The Feria del Carmen starts around the 16th July every year. A group of four young people, two men and two women, are elected each year by the Mayor to be in charge of the fundraising and organising of the Feria, they are called ''Mayordomos'' and were traditionally two people from the village and two from the countryside, they were chosen in this way to bring together village and country folk. Being a ''Mayordomo'' is a very important and responsible position to hold within the village, not only for the ''Mayordomos'' but their entire family, for the year, this group of four form a strong bond with each other that often lasts a lifetime.
Last Friday the 20th June, Ashley, Sophie and I, went to our local San Juan Fiesta, in Montecorto. Fire and Water are the theme of the whole Fiesta. This afternoon the children of Montecorto had a water fight, at midnight there is a huge bonfire. It is believed the fire and water cleanse the body and soul. It´s a very magical night, with the whole village entering into a party spirit, drinking and dancing into the early hours. San Juan celebrates the start of summer, traditionally this fiesta starts around midnight.
The night of San Juan, (23rd June) is a festival to welcome summer and takes place on the shortest night, when light triumphs over darkness, and is celebrated from June 20th til June 24th.
There is a magical feel in the air during San Juan, you will find yourself surrounded by bonfires, music, dancing, a party atmosphere for all.
Sun, Fire and Water are the essential features to this night. Legend says, if a fire burns on this night, it can cure diseases of the skin, if you jump over the fire three times, your body and soul will be purified and cleansed.
Restaurant Al Lago, Zahara de la Sierra
A stunning setting with lake views from the terrace in which to enjoy a leisurely lunch, dinner or innovative tapas. Chef Stefan Crites, who trained in New York for many years, re-interprets some of Spain’s culinary classics with a creative and exotic touch using local organic vegetables, top quality meat and fresh fish from the markets in Cadiz.
Cortijo Valverde
Beautiful hotel with outstanding views of the surrounding countryside providing that special vacation destination for either a restful holiday, or a base from which to explore the many treasures that Andalucia and Inland Spain has to offer.
Las Truchas
Las Truchas is a small hotel with a home from home atmosphere, located in the quaint town of El Bosque. Explore the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and the White Towns Route (Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos) that are situated within easy reaching distance of this hotel. You can enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding landscape from the hotel rooms.
Hotel Fuerte Grazalema
Situated in the heart of the sierra de Grazalema natural park, Hotel Fuerte Grazalema is a paradise for outdoor walking enthusiasts and is set in oak woodlands 5 kilometres from the village of Grazalema. It makes an excellent base from which to discover this stunning part of western Andalucia
Villa Turistica Grazalema
This hotel is located 500 metres from the charming village of Grazalema, a place characterised by its whitewashed façades, its narrow and windy streets and set in the centre of the natural park