La Casa de la Palmera, Gaucin
Review Submitted: August 27, 2008
Date of Stay: July 2008
La Casa de la Palmera in Gaucin is set in a typically charming Andalucian village back in the mountains, about half an hour's drive from the coast.
We were a particularly large group (3 families the first week, 4 the second, with 7 children in total!), and so enjoyed the crooks, crannies, numerous terraces and 'self-contained' units that the villa affords. The garden - if a little rocky for the very young (though we managed an accident free stay with a 1 and a half year old) - is well thought out, beautifully maintained and like a tranquil oasis in scorching July afternoon heat...There were many shaded areas where we would lunch or lounge before making our usually late afternoon excursion. The plunge pool was very much appreciated by all the children, and adults too! For a bigger swim, the municipal pool in Gaucin is less than 10 mins away by car, slightly longer by foot, and is surprisingly big, never crowded (watch out for lessons in the mornings though, which close the pool to the public: the helpful house manager should know what's what!) In the evenings, the large table outside and barbecue were practical for us - and the views sublime!
All the interiors were lovely, decorated with taste, and the newly-renovated 'artist's loft' was great for our children. Kitchens have basic equipment and there is no washing machine in the villa, though some of our party sent out washing to be done (house manager can help!). No parking spaces, but we always managed!
The owner's notes detailing practicalities, places to visit nearby etc came in extremely handy; as did the broadband internet connection used by some of those who unfortunately had to work! All our correspondence with the owner was straightforward, friendly and efficient, by the way.
Plenty of places to eat in Gaucin itself, and genuinely friendly service. Sipping a coffee or eating tapas in the big café on the main plaza was great too. A special mention for the butcher's shop which furnished us with superb meat for two large barbecues.
We found nearby Estepona an excellent, unpretentious resort with pleasant beaches and good restaurants. But we also managed to drift a little further afield - to Ronda, very stunning and highly recommended; to surfing resort, Tarifa; some of us visited Gibraltar, and a drive through the national park to get to Cadiz was stunning. Cadiz, with its faded grandeur, reminded us of Naples...
We all thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing stay here, and would recommend!
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No