The Andalusian-style Casa Muralla is located next to the Plaza de la Iglesia Mayor, the highest point of Medina Sidonia. It was built against the walls of the original Arab fortress of the ninth century, which dominated the old town. The views are fantastic, they span from the Bay of Cádiz towards Africa. The beautifully restored house, with modern decor, has exposed stone walls that run through it. You enter directly through an Andalusian patio, and from there you can access the comfortably furnished living room on the left, and on the right, a very bright, fully equipped kitchen. An external staircase takes you to the ensuite bedroom and two separate terraces, where you can watch the beautiful sunsets.

Kirsty, the owner, awaits you with a welcome basket full of local goodies: fruit, ham, Manchego cheese, extra virgin olive oil, Jerez vinegar, convent cakes and a bottle of fine red wine. The house also has Netflix, DVDs, books and games.

The house does not have a swimming pool but guests can use the hotel pool of the same owners, across the street. You will have their own key to directly access the garden whenever they want. Extra beds or cots are not permitted, the room is only for two people, and it is not advisable for people who have motor difficulties.

Medina Sidonia is a beautiful white town of markets and bulls, a monumental enclave with narrow streets on a hill and a certain Arab air. There are a variety of restaurants and tapas bars with a great reputation near the Muralla house.

In short: the beach is just half an hour away, the town in the clouds and wine to brighten our hearts. You couldn’t ask for more.