We found a little paradise in Andalucia! Perched on a small hill in San Martin del Tesorillo, near Sotogrande, is Cortijo El Papudo. We stayed a few days in this charming old Andalucian farmhouse B & B run by Michael and Vivien Harvey.
The gardens here are stunning! Tended by Michael, who is a landscape gardener, they are planted with an amazing array of sub tropical plants bursting with colour.
There are archways clothed in sweet smelling honeysuckle..
and wreathed with vivid bougainvillea.
Breathtaking views at every turn,
And did I mention colour and perfume? A kaleidoscope of colour and pot pourri of fragrance on the breeze attracts a myriad of bees and butterflies.
We breakfasted in the courtyard every morning on delicious fresh produce from the gardens and local area. We were treated to freshly squeezed oranges and sweet, blushing grapefruits - served by Vivien, our charming hostess who was ably assisted by the resident kitty! We were there at just the right time of year to enjoy a bowl of these juicy cherries - available only for a few short weeks of the year. How delicious! Don't you agree that food always tastes so much better when eaten al fresco?With Cortijo El Papudo as our base we headed out each day to explore the region. Coming up next: the route to Ronda - a truly magnificent drive to one of the oldest towns in Spain.
