Cortijo Opazo
Formerly a working farmhouse, Cortijo Opazo can be found in the countryside near the villages of Pitres, Portugos and the area of La Taha, about 25kms from the town of Orgiva. It is surrounded by ancient terraces used today by shepherds and market gardeners. The cortijo has been renovated recently to provide holiday accommodation in two delightful lodgings, La Corona and El Lujar, named after the two mountain summits that the house faces. These apartments can be rented out on a self catering basis, or as part of a fully catered, all inclusive walking holiday.
Self catering apartment 'La Corona' 2 people plus sofa bed
From the south facing verandah the entrance of La Corona leads into the open plan living accommodation. This is a spacious area with a sofa and a double sofa bed, a large dining table, four dining chairs, a well stocked bookcase and a log burning stove. The kitchen is fully equipped with fitted cupboards, full sized oven, a glass ceramic hob with four rings, overhead extractor fan and full sized fridge. Plates cutlery etc are provided for at least four people and there is an extensive range of cooking equipment. The kitchen is tiled with ceramics in traditional local designs, and is clean and modern.
From the kitchen there is a short connecting passage that leads to the bathroom and bedroom. The bathroom is fully tiled with a sink, W.C. and walk-in shower. Shelves, hooks, mirrors, towel rails and a wall cupboard are fitted.
Next to the bathroom is the bedroom with a double bed (200cms x 150cms) side cupboards with table lamps, chest of drawers and hanging space. This light and airy room has two windows facing east and south that look out onto the surrounding countryside.
La Corona is situated to the front of Cortijo Opazo and has a glorious south facing covered verandah (known locally as a tinao) with expansive views out over the valley of the Rio Trevelez and across the summit of La Corona to the mountains of the Contraviesa. To one side of the verandah there is an open patio for your exclusive use which enjoys sun all day long. Outdoor tables, chairs and sun-loungers allow guests to take full advantage of this splendid location. The private patio area leads on to the delightful communal garden.
Throughout the accommodation the floors have been finished in warm terracota ceramic tiles. There is an underfloor heating system in all areas, the use of which is included in the rental. During most of the year the days are warm enough for t-shirts and light clothing but since the area is mountainous the evenings and early mornings in the cooler months can be chilly and we have found the heating system invaluable. The log burning stove is provided as a cosy luxury and a quantity of logs will be supplied.
La Corona is ideal for two people but there is a sofa bed that opens up into a comfortable full sized double bed. We are happy to provide additional bedding for the use of this facility.
The Location
Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains of southern Spain, Cortijo Opazo offers a perfect holiday destination if you are looking for beautiful scenery, relaxing surroundings and an area that is rich in cultural history. The region is known as 'Las Alpujarras' and is an enchanting part of Spain. Treasured by the Moors as a paradise location this mountainous area is situated between the summits of the Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean coast of the Costa del Sol. As a holiday destination it is ideal for walking, cycling, riding, photography, painting and the appreciation of flowers and wildlife; but most of all for just unwinding and taking time out. It is within easy striking distance of the historical city of Granada with its fabulous Alhambra Palace, yet is close enough to the coast to enjoy a well deserved day lounging on the beach. During the winter and spring you can even go skiing on the high slopes of the Sierra Nevada - less than two hours by car.
Mulhacen is the highest peak in the area (and in mainland Spain) at a little under 3,500 metres. Cortijo Opazo is situated at 1,250 metres in the high Alpujarras and enjoys an excellent climate. The conditions of Andalucia in southern Spain ensure that there is plenty of sun during the winter months when the weather is usually warm enough for t-shirts and light clothing during the day. The summer months are hot but the altitude means that when evening comes there is always a delightful stream of cool air flowing down the valley from the high Sierras, a type of natural air conditioning.
Around Cortijo Opazo we have established delightful garden areas that we are extending all the time. Throughout the year you will be able to enjoy a variety of plants and flowers, many indigenous to this area, many grown by way of experimentation. You will feel free to wander from terrace to terrace and find your pefect place to contmeplate the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.