Finca Retama Farmstead

What our guests think of their stay with us

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:39:46 +0000

All of the following comments are genuine and have been written in our gueastbook by our guests.

We have visited Finca Retama for 3 years in a row now and each and every time we have wanted to go back as soon as we can. The accommodation offers exactly what we need both in terms of peace and quiet but also well placed to allow us to explore a large area of southern Spain and to get back in time for a relaxing swim in the pool and to enjoy some of the local bars and restaurants. Nick and Julia are really good hosts and provide a wealth of information to ensure we maximise our all too limited time with them. We can't recommend it highly enough!!! Simon, Louise and Nathan Adams, Bristol UK, July

Our second visit, this time with sister and sister-in-law, and our first stay in the Casa Abuela - which we all love very much. Very comfortable and stylish. Trips to Granada and Cordoba, Flamenco in Ronda, all combined with lazing by the pool and on the terrace made for a perfect refreshing and relaxing holiday. We're working on our return dates!!!
Glynn and Patricia Stackhouse, Pamela and Brenda, Oxfordshire UK, October

At first we were a bit apprehensive to share our precious holiday as in the past we have normally opted for private gites . However, we couldn't have asked for a more fantastic family holiday than we had at Finca Retama (or Oliver's villa as we now refer to it)! We not only had a carefree relaxing time whilst our kids were entertained by all the other kids but have also had a fabulous time with the lovely owners (Julia and Nick and their scrumptious boys). They made us feel special and have introduced us to authentic Spanish restaurants which we would have never discovered without their in-dept knowledge of all the places to go and love of Spanish culture. Thank you again for making us feel so welcome and for all your help and hospitality. Needless to say we hope to come back again soon.
(Grosvenor family, Primrose Hill, London, UK)

Thanks so much for your wonderful hospitality, Nick and Julia. We had a fabulous time exploring the surrounding villages. Your accommodations were beautifully decorated and rustic and the setting is perfect. We would recommend Finca Retama to anyone! (Rupa, Prasenjit, Banerjee, Oakville, ON, Canada, September)

We've had a great time exploring Ronda and the surrounding villages. We couldn't have asked for a nicer place from which to do it! Casa Abuela is in a glorious setting and its been so lovely to spend timee here as well. Thank you for being excellent hosts, really nice to meet you both and the boys. I'm sure we'll see you again in the future. (Melissa, Rachel, Bob and Pat, London UK, October)

Muchas gracias por vuestra hospitalidad, Nick y Julia. Hemos pasado unos dias fenomenales y muy tranquilos en ' Villa Casa Abuela'. El lugar es fantastico, las instanaciones cuidadas. Al detalle y unas vistas geniales para disfrutar de la naturaleza. Esperamos vernos muy pronto!!! (Ruben, Nuria, Sergio, Ana, Paco y Marta, de Seville, Deciembre)

Had a very relaxing week in Finca Retama. Lovely accommodation - well positioned for exploring the area. Recommend the horse riding! Thanks to Nick and Julia for all their help and advice - use of pushchairs and child rucksack most appreciated.
Paul and Neena Cleary, Stoke-on-Trent UK, October

Lovely holiday in a beautiful part of Spain. Perfect for relaxing holiday. Accommodation- Finca Retama Apartment - was charming even for seven! Girls lived in the swimming pool. Great views and our hosts were always on hand and happy to help. It felt like the real Spain! Victoria Farnsworth, Stockport UK, August

Quel bon séjour dans la Casa Abuela! La maison est trés jolie et les décorations aussi! Bon caurage paur la suite. What a good trip to Casa Abuela! House is very beautiful and the decorations too! Good luck for the future. Lucie, the daughter of Mickey.
Very nice place. These holidays were really near Eden: peacefull and good for meditations. All these moments will stay in our memory. Our regret: my obligation to leave this place tomorrow. Good luck to Julia, Nick, without forgetting the lovely Oliver and Daniel…plus the famous Tokaj (dog). They are very good! Muy simpatico!! Mickey et sa famille, Paris France, August

We want to thank you both for a wonderful two weeks at your beautiful Casita. We have stayed in many places over the years and Casa Abuela is definitely one of the best we have encountered. It was absolutely perfect for a relaxing and laid back holiday with the beautiful terrace and pool right outside the door. There was even a temporary pet thrown in to make us feel completely at home! Unfortunately for us those beautiful Andalucian blue skies ar now just a memory and the temperature is down by about 18 degrees. We wish you both every success for the future and I'm sure future clients will be as impressed as we were. We do like to travel and see different plces, but if we come back to Andalucia again we will definitely want to come to Finca Retma Farmstead. Lesley and Mark Heneghan, UK, July

What a lovely place (Casa Abuela)! So relaxing. The kids had a ball - pretty good for the parents too! We will be back! Huw, Lizzie, Jonjo, Jules, Leila Cordey, Bristol UK, August

Mar ketszer vakacioztunk Andaluciaban ebben a gyonyoru nyaraloban. Eloszor a farmhaz aparmentben masodszor pedig az uj villaban. Mindketto nagyon jol felszerelt, tokeletes csaladoknak vagy csak felnoteknek. A kislanyunk szuperul eljatszott a tulajdonos gyermekeivel igy nekunk szuloknek is sikerult kikapcsolodni. Julia es Nick (a tulajok) igen jo vendeglatok, kedvesek es segitokeszek. Jol elszorakoztunk eggyutt tenyleg tokeletesse tette a nyaralalast mindenki szamara. Remeljuk hamarosan vissza terhetunk es kiprobalhatjuk az uj szaunat is. Igazan ajanljuk mindenkinek ezt a spanyol nyaralot. (Zsuzsanna, Antonio es Violetta, Gyor es Barcelona)

Dear Nick and Julia, I felt I must write to say what a marvellous time we had at Casa Abuela. We must have been one of the first visitors to your beautiful new Casita. The setting is marvellous, the fittings are both efficient and absolutely in character with the location and as for the pool - super! We can't wait to come again and bring the family because there is something for everybody. The hosts are pretty nice too! Ann and Vernon Ford, Hampshire UK, June

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Finca Retama Farmstead

Finca Retama Farmstead rated "excellent" by 7 travellers

Self-catering holidays Andalucia Spain

Holiday House Ronda

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Ronda Rental - Gîte - Self Catering Rental - Casa Abuela

Luxury country hotel

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cheap car hire Malaga airport Spain centauro.net

Casa Abuela

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:45:24 +0000

Self-catering Holiday Rental Country Villa (sleeps 2-6)

Nestling in the pastoral, fertile Ronda valley and set within the grounds of a private fruit farm, the self catering holiday villa ‘Casa Abuela’ offers the discerning lover of Spain a taste of the real Andalucia that has hardly changed for over a hundred years. It is totally independent from the Finca Retama farmhouse apartment.

Being of exceptionally high build quality and tastefully furnished throughout this two bedroom two bathroom villa has been designed for comfort and alfresco living: two sets of teak French doors open out onto the spacious and willow-shaded terrace which itself abuts the magnificent fully-fenced and landscaped 15x6 metre swimming pool. A hedge of mature pink roses provides privacy along the length of the terrace. There is natural slate underfoot and ornamental trees and hanging baskets to compliment the ambience.

Inside the owners have gone to considerable lengths to combine luxury with practicality. The casita exudes Moorish charm after a trip to the souks of Rabat and Fez yielded intricate hand-woven flat-weave rugs; ceramic bowls; sinks and tiles; original artwork; glass lamps and much more besides.

The finest ‘Kashmir Gold’ granite surfaces the kitchen work areas below which all modern and new conveniences are housed. It is fully equipped with a 4 ring hob, separate oven, fridge and freezer, washing machine, microwave, toaster and kettle, and all the usual plates, pans and utensils expected of an up-market self-catering holiday let.

The generously-proportioned dining/relaxation area offers a cool respite from the hot Andalusian summers with comfortable sofas, hardwood furniture and inspired artistic touches.

The principal bedroom has a kingsize bed (which can easily be separated to form 2 singles) and it opens out onto the terrace through huge teak french doors and its over-sized en-suite wet room is partially tiled with small turquoise glass tiles (‘grasite’). There is a wide shower-head, sturdy handrails and a flip down seat…ideal for disabled clients.

In the second double bedroom (as in the principal one) the beds can easily be parted to provide two singles if required and, again, there is plenty of wardrobe space.

The second bathroom (next door to the second bedroom) serves the whole casita. The extra-wide bath has a shower attachment and is fully tiled.

There is also a double sofa bed in the sitting-room if needed together with a generous flat screen TV monitor, DVD player and free-to-air British TV channels.

Outside:
Set in 8 acres of private arable land, Finca Retama Farmstead is abundant with apple, pear, quince, plum, peach, fig, and walnut trees. Please help yourself when in season.

On the south and east sides of the rental villa is a perfect alfresco dining terrace where a large and solid BBQ set is provided under the spacious and willow-shaded terrace which itself abuts the magnificent fully-fenced and landscaped 15x6 metre swimming pool. A hedge of mature pink roses provides privacy along the length of the terrace. There is natural slate underfoot and ornamental trees and hanging baskets compliment the ambience.

Casa Abuela

Kitchen / Dining

En-suite wet room with disabled access

Finca Retama Farmhouse Apartment (Sleeps 2-8)

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:44:47 +0000

The additional holiday-let, comprising half of the beautifully restored Finca Retama farmhouse is totally independent from Casa Abuela and has been authentically and tastefully furnished to a high standard.

Some of the walls are a metre thick (and far from straight); exposed wooden beams are everywhere and through some of the doors you must duck…especially when entering the private terrace which overlooks this fruit farm.

The internal layout has been thoughtfully devised: in one wing is a large double bedroom (with superb views) and its own en-suite bathroom. This can be completely isolated from the rest of the accommodation...useful for a peaceful parental siesta!

FR private terrace

The large sitting/dining area (with satellite TV and DVD) has a comfortable sofa bed, which can sleep a further two. In addition there are two more bedrooms: one double with twin beds (which can easily be joined together to form a double): and a single room with bunk beds. Both have access to the terrace.
A separate family bathroom serves the rest of the let. The fully equipped kitchen has a four ring hob, separate oven, large fridge, washing machine, kettle and toaster and all the usual plates and pans expected in an upmarket self catering holiday let.

BBQs on the spacious, private terrace are one popular dining option. Here provision has been made for ample seating and shade... not forgetting the superb views across the valley to the mountains which one can see changing colour as the sun goes down.

King size bedroom with ensuite

Finca Retama twin bed

Finca Retama sitting room

Ronda and Further Afield

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:44:24 +0000

The beautifully conserved and ancient Moorish town of Ronda with its world famous gorge, oldest bullring in Spain, and delightfully winding cobbled streets is just on your doorstep… as are the charming white Andalucian villages (Pueblos Blancos) typical of the region and where a slower, more traditional way of life still pervades.

Ronda
The city of Ronda with a population of just 40,000 is just the right size to enjoy it's history, yet small enough that everywhere is within walking distance of the town centre. In Roman times Arunda as it was known, was a small village while the nearby city of Acinipo dominated the main trade route. By the time of the Moorish conquest Ronda had overtaken other villages for dominance and Acinipo had fallen into ruin. The impregnable fortress that arose above the 'El Tajo' gorge survived hundreds of years of war between Christian Spain and the Moorish Caliphate but finally fell in 1485.

This history and subsequent years have left their mark and today Ronda is one of Spain's most visited cities, and the largest of Andalucia's famed white towns. While you're in Ronda be sure to walk across the Puente Nuevo into the old town and see the many churches and museums, followed by a stroll down to the old bridge and Arab baths. A few hours is more than enough to see the sights in Ronda, although you could easily return another day for a more detailed look.

White Villages and Natural Parks
These make excellent and easy half day trips and offer the discerning lover of Spain a taste of the original Andalucia that has hardly changed over the centuries. Three natural parks surround Ronda and so, not surprisingly, those looking for an action holiday will not be disappointed.

Whether it’s caves to explore, horses to ride, a long cycling trip out into the hills or rock climbing in the highly-rated ‘El Chorro’ mountains or simply a gentle stroll around Finca Retama’s ample grounds followed by the rest of the day lazing by the pool…there’s something here for all energy levels.

It should also be noted that bird watchers and painters favour the area. Apart from hundreds of endemic species of flora and fauna, Andalucia is also a popular migration stopover point for a lot of bird species.
The area surrounding Finca Retama has a wealth of both bird and plant species. Set amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole of Spain, why not spend at least a day visiting sites of importance for wildflowers and birds with Spanish Nature? Their local knowledge will ensure you find those 'impossible to find' sites in our area and will guarantee you see some of the area's specialities. For further details see their website www.spanishnature.com the site is also a useful reference to wildlife here.

Andalucian Beaches and Cities
The nearest beach, which is just under an hour’s drive along one of the most scenic routes in Andalucia, is Marbella’s San Pedro. This happens to be one of the best the Costa del Sol has to offer as the sandy beach is wide and well shaded by trees, the water clean and the immediate area uncluttered by the usual assortment of Costa over development.

The unspoilt sandy beaches of the Costa de la Luz are only 2 hours drive away – a favourite day trip for those seeking a more tranquil seaside trip.

If however you prefer swimming in a clear, clean river-fed lake, drive about 20 minutes through scenic countryside where you'll find the unspoilt and well shaded fresh water lagoon with its grassed beach and great value restaurant.

Andalusia’s six most visited cities are all within a 1 ½ - 2 hour drive from the farm. Aristocratic Jerez famed for its sherry, fine horses and flamenco; Cordoba’s breathtaking Mesquita, arab baths and teahouses; Granada’s world famous Alhambra: a vast Moorish fortress-palace complex; Seville for its pervading perfume of orange blossom, its Moorish Alcazar and superb cathedral; Cadiz with its naval history, fresh seafood delicacies and annual carnival and finally Malaga famed for its Moorish Alcazaba fortress, newly opened Picasso museum and vibrant old town…all a short stroll from the beach.

Serrania de Ronda

Plaza del Socorro, Ronda

Cordoba

La Merced, Ronda

Alhambra, Granada

San Sebastian Minaret

Cordoba

Jerez Horse Fair

Alhambra

How to Get to Finca Retama and Casa Abuela

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:43:28 +0000

Directions from Malaga Airport

On leaving Malaga airport get into the lower Cadiz lane which will take you onto the main N340 dual carriageway. Once on drive 1.8kms looking out for the small Churriana A404 exit. Take it and you'll get to a roundabout very shortly afterwards. Take the Churriana turning and head up on a dual carriageway for about 1.7kms. Until you get to another roundabout displaying a big blue Churriana sign. Take the first right marked A7052 Cartama/Churriana. After 10 kms you'll get to a roundabout and then another one just after driving under the main A357 Campillos Road. Take the 2nd unmarked exit and this will put you onto the A357 Campillos road. After 42 kms take the Teba/Ronda turning off right from the A357 which will take you under it and there at the roundabout get onto the A367 to Ronda.

Carry on for a good 40kms until you arrive at the outskirts of Ronda. At the first roundabout junction/traffic lights turn right on to the A374 Seville road. Do not go into Ronda. Continue on the Seville road for about 6kms until you see a small turning on your right.

There will be a few signs including a blue Hotel sign for “Hotel Fuente de la Higuera”. Take this turning and follow the road which, after about 1km, will bare left and take you under a railway bridge. Continue for about 400 metres until the road forks.

Take the left hand fork marked ‘Hotel Fuente la Higuera & Hotel Molino de Arcos’, and after about 200 metres you will come to a small bridge over a little river. Cross it and immediately afterwards take the left hand turning on to a little lane which runs roughly along the river.

After about 1.3kms you’ll come to a big stone wall which curves to the left. Follow it and after about 250 metres the lane turns sharply left. On this bend, opposite, are Finca Retama’s gates. Enter here and the holiday lets are at the end of its private 200 metre drive.

You have arrived.

If you are coming from other directions follow signs to RONDA. Once you have arrived at the main roundabout with the traffic lights pick up our directions (see above) from there.

Facilities at Casa Abuela and Finca Retama

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:42:44 +0000

OUR FACILITIES
Stunning 15 metre mosaic-tiled swimming pool private to the whole house, with secure fencing
Large private shaded terrace with BBQ
Brand new mini-spa with 5 person Finnish sauna, hydro massage shower, gym equipment and relaxation chairs (additional)
Homedics massage cushion with heat (extra)
Ample parking
Satellite TV & DVD player
Table Tennis
14ft Trampoline with safety enclosure (when the owners are in residence)
Swingball
Bike Hire (additional)
Child minding (additional and available on request)
Use of most of Finca Retama’s grounds
Books and games
Shaded child's area with sandpit and toys (when the owners are in residence)
Iron and ironing board
Hair dryer
Cot and other baby equipments
Mosquito nets on every window and door
Pool towels can be rented for just €5 per week each

AMENITIES
Ronda: 6 kms with all its myriad restaurants, bars, supermarkets, banks, medical and internet facilities etc...
Beach: 55kms
Fresh water beach: 20kms
Nearest bar: 2 kms…try the delicious ‘Pelistre’ rabbit!
Horse riding and lessons
Easy and medium walks from the house and many more within a short drive
Birdwatching
Rock climbing
Charming white washed villages
Golf: 50km plus much much more...

PRICES AND RENTING PERIODS

Prices for Villa Casa Abuela:

High Season: 150 € per day: June 1st - September 14th, Easter week and Christmas through to New Year
Mid Season: 125 € per day: April 15th - May 31st, September 15th - October 14th
Low Season: 100 € per day: October 15th - April 14th

Prices for Finca Retama Farmhouse Apartment:

High Season: 140 € per day: June 1st - September 14th, Easter week and Christmas through to New Year
Mid Season: 120 € per day: April 15th - May 31st, September 15th - October 14th
Low Season: 100 € per day: October 15th - April 14th

Exclusivity rate:
When either Casa Abuela or the Finca Retama Apartment are hired by clients who wish to have sole occupancy without the other rental accommodation being occupied:
High season: €185 per day
Mid season: €160 per day
Low season: €140 per day

10% discount for bookings of over 2 weeks, when both holiday lets are rented together to the same party and for repeat guests.
Also available for longterm rentals in low season at reduced rates please contact us for more information.

MAKING A BOOKING

View near our holiday rentals

If you want to make a booking, please do one of the following:

Email me, Julia Flynn:info@fincaretama.com
Or call me in Spain on +34 666 407 333 or +34 610 609 340

A non-refundable deposit of 25% is to be paid on booking. Upon receipt of the deposit, we will send you a reservation confirmation

HOW TO PAY
There are currently three ways to pay your deposit:

Direct bank transfer - once your booking is confirmed you will be sent our bank account details and will be asked to make an immediate transfer. This is relatively easy to do from anywhere in the world, but remember to tell your bank to cover all transfer fees at your end (usually zero within the EC).

Paypal / credit card - you can pay using your credit card or Paypal account. Once the booking is confirmed you will be sent a Paypal invoice which is simple to pay. You do not need a Paypal account to pay this way, a credit card will do. We will pay the Paypal fees on the 25% booking deposit if it is paid immediately; this currently stands at 4%, and will not be added to your first invoice.

Cheque - you can walk into any Nationwide Building Society with a cheque for the correct amount and deposit it into my current account. Details to be e-mailed on confirmation.

After that...
The remaining 75% owing should be settled two weeks before arrival

CONDITIONS:
The flexible renting period is for a minimum of a week in high season
Check-in: 2 pm
Check-out 10 am
Accommodates from 2 to 14 people (max 10 adults)
Price includes electricity, gas and water (except drinking water)
Clean linen and towels provided on arrival (please bring pool towels or you can rent them for only €5 per week each)
Breakages to be paid for before leaving
Bookings accepted by e-mail: info@fincaretama.com

ACCOMMODATION NOTES:
You will find that, as the owners occupy the other half of Finca Retama for a considerable part of the year, they will be able to offer advice and information as well as being on hand to deal with any problems that may arise. The owners are discreet about using the pool whilst the holiday let is occupied.

Country Villa and Farmhouse Apartment

nospam@example.com (Finca Retama) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:40:25 +0000

LAST MINUTE SPECIAL LOW SEASON OFFER

Stay 1 week in either of our holiday lets and pay for only 6 days. Free welcome pack and a sauna session included.

Finca Retama, a 200 year-old Andaluz Farmstead, nestles in an idyllic setting within the tranquility of the Serrania de Ronda. In the grounds is a high-specification 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom self-catering Spanish vacation villa (sleeps 2 – 6) and a beautifully restored 3 bedroom traditional farmhouse apartment (sleeping 2 – 8). These family friendly self-contained holiday accommodations are set in 8 acres of private arable land with its own woodland bordering a pretty stream and are accessed along its private 200m drive. The picture of rustic Spanish life is complete yet you are only a few minutes from the historic and picturesque town of Ronda, Inland Andalusia.

These graceful and spacious lettings are very comfortable, have all the mod-cons ( including central-heating) and are available throughout the whole year. Both holiday-homes 'Casa Abuela' and 'Finca Retama Apartment' can be made available on their own, together or (for a premium) exclusively thus making them the perfect choice for couples, families or friends wishing to holiday together.

The extra large 15m+ pool (biggest and warmest private pool in the area!) is fully fenced, landscaped and private to the whole estate. Both luxury self-catering vacation rentals are tastefully decorated to a Moorish theme with plenty of Berber rugs, high quality hardwood furniture and fittings. Casa Abuela has been especially designed for wheelchair access.

Recently completed and ideal for the cooler Spanish months is a luxurious 'mini-spa' and relaxation room containing a superb 5-person Finnish sauna, hydro-massage shower and multi-gym. Imagine returning from your hard day's activities in the knowledge that a pampering awaits. This private facility is unique for holiday homes in the region and is available to both holiday-lets.

Although the Finca Retama vacation rentals are nestled in a bucolic valley in the countryside they are only a ten minute drive from the fabulous town of Ronda and its charming white Andalusian villages scattered all around. With three Natural Parks on their doorstep, our rentals make an ideal base for a wide variety of activities including horse-riding, nature walking, rock climbing, mountain – biking, bird watching, caving…and much more besides.

In fact you could not choose a more central location from which to enjoy sightseeing in the famous Andalucian cities of Cordoba, Granada, Seville, Jerez, Cadiz and Malaga. Also, not too far away, are the coastal resorts of the Costa del Sol and the unspoilt sandy beaches of the Costa de la Luz.

Please see our guests' testimonials

Casa Abuela Villa Sitting Room

Casa Abuela Terrace

Large Fenced Pool

Finca Retama Farmstead

Exceptionally big pool

Villa and Farmhouse