Nestling on a quiet street in achingly pretty Andalucian town, Magnolia House belies its secrets behind its original rough hewn wooden door surrounded by exposed brickwork.  Built across 3 levels and dating back to 1624, the house still retains many of its original features and its transformation has been phenomenal with an explosion of colour, interior design and great eco-credentials.  Entering the foyer with original tiles, occasional antique furniture and beamed ceilings, the jolly striped tiger shows the way. A handy bench allows you to put your cases down whilst you absorb and explore the wealth of Magnolia’s treasures.  Bedroom One is on this level with its large single bed and downstairs loo with Moroccan bowl sink. Another original wooden door leads you into the spacious sitting room with exposed beams and brickwork, two huge squashy sofas and elegant velvet chairs – elegance merges with rustic, with every piece of art, sculpture, pottery having been chosen with care and each blending in harmony with the other. The thick walls keep the house cool in summer and there is a wood burning stove for winter stays with us.  There is a shaded patio off this room with wooden refectory table and seating for up to 10 guests – the views across the gardens towards the surrounding Andalucian hills are breath-taking.  The super swish kitchen with pale grey Smeg units and marble worksurface has everything that you could possibly need to cook up a storm.

 

Off the foyer, another original door leads down to the middle level…..If only walls could talk as they ooze history here but…...wait….. here is another surprise! Who would ever imagine a gorgeous, spoiling, modern Sauna with complimentary robes and organic toiletries and an adjoining “chill out room” in a house dating back to the 17th Century”? Relax on the velvet sofa and just enjoy the luxury and seclusion. A couple of steps lead you to a bathroom fit for a King with huge antique bronze urns and walk in shower.   Just off the ground floor, a modern staircase leads up to two further bedrooms both with pretty en-suite bathrooms and King size beds.   Bedroom 4 is opposite the chill room with Double Bed and original wooden beams. Bedroom 5 is up it's own spiral staircase with double bed, original stonework and views across the atrium towards the gardens.  All bedding is fine thread Egyptian cotton, the towels white and fluffy and the toiletries contemporary and organic.

 

Steps lead down to the lower part of the house into the fabulous Atrium with tons of plants, antique wall hangings and fabulous arched brick ceiling. Here is your second kitchen with a snazzy Smeg fridge, hob and sink. There is a handy bench to have a chat with the designated chef!   But……….now to the star of the show……the gardens where the scent of roses in the summer is intoxicating. Although there are old houses on either sides of Magnolia, you will feel very private here and the only sound is that of birdsong. Here is another patio with dining table and Webber BBQ………this is where you will spend much of your time whilst staying with us! The large private pool with sun loungers is a good size and offers welcome relief during the hot Spanish summers – there are cleverly hidden shaded areas where you can snooze with a book or enjoy an early gin and tonic (having picked your own lemon on course!). The lawns are extensive and perfect for a yoga retreat or to just indulge yourself among glorious surroundings. A True Midsommer Nights Dream…