A Tribute to Andalusia
This 18th-century cortijo has been meticulously restored by journalist and novelist Igor Ramírez García-Peralta as a testament to Andalusian heritage and regenerative farming. The home has recently been featured in the FT's How To Spend It and Yolo Journal.
García-Peralta wears many hats. When he's not writing about adventure travel and directing advertising campaigns for brands like Tiffany & Co and Emporio Armani, he's in the Andalusian countryside farming livestock and growing olives. He foudned Cortijo La Sierrazuela in 2023, offering guests the chance to see a different side of Andalusia. "I have a deep connection to the land," he says, "its centuries-old olive groves, and the traditions that shape daily life here. After living in some of the world’s most fast-paced cities, I chose to move to the countryside and embrace a slower, more intentional way of life. My passion for nature, animals, and Andalusian culture drives everything I do—from working the land to reviving nearly forgotten olive varieties.”
The cortijo’s thick stone walls and limewash finishes offer a cool, monastic hideaway. The interior palette is an ode to the earth, defined by reclaimed terracotta, ancient stone and rustic timber beams. These materials form the backdrop to a deeply personal collection of vintage ceramics, woven textiles and curated books.
The estate unfolds across a main house and a separate guest house, offering flexibility for families or groups. Living spaces flow outdoors, from the rustic, fully equipped kitchen to shaded dining pergolas. The heart of the courtyard is its pool, a blue jewel framed by centenarian olive trees.
The 20-hectare landscape is a regenerative organic farm dedicated to biodiversity. Here, olive groves produce organic oil while protected native sheep and donkeys roam the wildflower meadows. The grounds are an invitation to connect with a living ecosystem, where the rhythms of nature dictate a slower, more considered pace of life.
Set within its own expansive agricultural estate, La Sierrazuela is an opportunity to inhabit a piece of living history, a stay defined by architectural integrity, ecological purpose, and the enduring romance of rural Andalusia.
This vacation home for rent in Arcos de la Frontera sleeps six guests. There is space for three more guests in the annex, which is available for an additional charge. Please inquire for details.
Amenities & experiences
The house uses sustainable energy and has an independent water supply, with a focus on the conservation of endangered native breeds.
Experiences including animal feeding, private dinners and olive oil tastings are available. Please inquire for further details.
The quoted rates include staff and weekly linen changes.
Around
Perched dramatically on a limestone ridge, Arcos de la Frontera is a quintessential Andalusian pueblo blanco, with labyrinthine streets and breathtaking viewpoints. Explore its historic center and stop for tapas at Taberna Jóvenes Flamencos. The estate is a perfect base for exploring the region. It's a 30-minute drive to the city of Jerez de la Frontera, the heart of sherry country, where you can experience authentic flamenco at Tabanco El Pasaje. The scenic Route of the White Villages is at your doorstep, and the ancient port city of Cádiz is less than an hour away. Wonderful beaches like El Palmar, Caños de Meca, and Chipiona are all under an hour away. A car is essential to experience all the region has to offer.
Location
Arcos de la Frontera, Andalusia, Spain. Nearest airport: Jerez (XRY, 35km). Seville and Gibraltar are both about 1 hour and 15 minutes away.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn for pleasant temperatures