Ground Floor: Entrance hall. Sitting/dining room (fireplace, TV, DVD) with door to covered terrace. Kitchen (oven, microwave, washing machine, dishwasher). Double bedroom. Twin bedroom. Shower room. WiFi. Heating and air conditioning throughout the house. Outside: Covered and open terraces. Barbecue*. Poolside shower. Private parking. Private swimming pool (7m x 4m) with Roman steps.
The breathtakingly pretty countryside and wide panoramic views that surround the charming local town of El Gastor have frequently been considered one of the highlights of our exploratory visits to Andalucía. From the country lanes that wend their way through gently undulating fields of olive groves, a sweeping landscape unfolds below, spreading out into the distance towards the turquoise blue waters of the Embalse de Zahara inland lake and the imposing mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema that rise up behind.
It is amidst this picture postcard setting that we discovered Los Milagros, a delightful and beautifully presented cottage that provides an ideal retreat for couples or small groups. Within its charming rooms, striking features such as exposed stone walls and vaulted ceilings are set off against a décor of pretty colours to create a home that instantly appeals whilst the provision of both air conditioning and heating adds to the sense of comfort.
Situated just off a rural lane, two of the property's borders are lined with the silvery grey olive trees so emblamatic of the area whilst on the other side is a spectacular 180-degree vista of mountains, lake and dazzling white villages.
So extensive is this outlook that guests can sit on the poolside terraces or eat al fresco around the in-built barbecue whilst identifying the places they wish to visit on their travels. To the left is the Grazalema National Park, a favourite haunt of nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts; down below the eye-catching hilltop village of Zahara de la Sierra forms a striking landmark on the shores of the lake, whilst directly ahead are the pretty ‘pueblos blancos’ of Algondonales and Olvera.
Closer to hand, the local town of El Gastor is just a 10 minute drive from the house and provides all amenities and some good restaurants, whilst the historic town of Ronda is just 35 minutes away.
* As this is a protected area of natural beauty, barbecue bans will be enforced from early June and an electric 'plancha' will be provided for outdoor catering. Internet provision is via a satellite connection.
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