Authentic Andalusia in luxurious surroundings Here is a piece of the real Andalusia with bells and whistles attached – class, history, Spanish charm, bougainvillea clad walls, patios, plus the apparent contradiction of “simple sophistication” throughout. Being set in a 350 acre working farm (the Hacienda San Rafael cultivates a number of crops, including sunflowers, cotton and sugar beet) makes this centuries-old former olive farm the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of modern life.

In fact, we bet that whilst there is much to see around the Hacienda San Rafael, not least the surrounding countryside with its white villages and Seville being only a stone’s throw away, guests will want to spend as much time as possible here to take full advantage of its unique features. It has been beautifully restored in the traditional colonial Andalusian style and has managed to retain many of its original features. Large, well-furnished rooms set around the patio and elegant public areas, such as the beautiful sitting rooms all add up to a great, informal atmosphere.

Then there are the three enchanting “casitas” (thatched houses) with their own private garden and infinity pool. Cuisine, simple and fresh using produce from the area, is another of the high points of a stay at the Hacienda Rafael. As mentioned earlier we will wage that you will not want to leave this “unique experience”.