Ermita del Carmen

A Historical Home Dramatically Transformed

Like a breath of fresh air, this vacation home for rent in Andalucia envelops you in the epic landscapes of southern Spain with a bright, contemporary makeover. Preserving the best of its original rustic character, the restoration instills a sense of calm and antiquity along with a leap into the modern world.

Located in one of the most pristine natural areas of Andalucia, this 15th-century house has undergone a dramatic modern transformation without losing its sense of identity.  

Surrounded by national park land and the Sierras Subbetica, the house sits among the five hundred year old foundations of a Roman temple that was erected in honor of Venus along an ancient waterway. Ensconced in total privacy with impressive views of the horizon, the property retains its rural appeal and traditional character despite a thoroughly modern make-over.

Composed of local limestone, the house was restored and designed in a collaborative effort by a group of Spanish architects. Whitewashed inside and out, the interiors are effortlessly chic and kept deliberately simple. The main living area is spacious and lofty with open, double height ceilings, a mezzanine and two levels of glazing that overlooks the terraced pool area. 

The fully-equipped modern kitchen is designed for entertaining with dining areas inside and out. There is one bedroom on the ground floor and three double bedrooms upstairs that can accommodate a total of eight guests.

Immersed in olive and fruit groves and rambling native landscapes, there is also a vegetable garden for guests to enjoy that can be harvested when in season and shady lounging areas with hammocks and panoramic views.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Wifi throughout, cable TV with DVD player, media library and games, stereo audio system with music library, climate control, laundry facilities. BBQ for guests use.

AROUND

Set within the protected Subbetica national park land in Andalucia, there are a variety of walking trails and bike paths through the countryside directly from the house including the Sierra de Cabra as well as the nearby Chorreras waterfalls. There are also many authentic Andalusian villages where it seems that time has stopped and from where you can shop the local markets and shops and tuck into the local tapas bars and cafes.

Carcabuey is within walking distance, with the charming villages of Zagrilla, Priego, Zuero and Luque within a short drive. The UNESCO town of Antequera is just over an hour from the house and is considered the "Heart of Andalusia" with its Moorish fortress and medieval and Renaissance era treasures. Cordoba, Granada and Malaga are are just over an hours drive through scenic routes filled with olive trees, mountain vistas and views of the sea and Seville is two hours west.

LOCATION

Andalucia, Spain. Nearest airport: Malaga (130km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round with warm summers, mild winters and ideal conditions in spring and fall