World hotel of the month
Feeling jaded? An autumn pick-me-up break in a gorgeous Spanish hideaway could be just what you need to shake off those seasonal blues - and we think we may have found just the place.
Boutique rural retreat Hotel Cortijo Bravo opened its doors to guests this summer - and it's already proven immensely popular. Situated in the relatively undiscovered Axarquia region of Andalucia, it's still only half an hour's drive from Malaga airport. So you get the best of both worlds: a straightforward journey and an idyllic break in an unspoilt part of the Spanish countryside.
The hotel has been designed in the style of a traditional Andalucian manor house, with elegant whitewashed walls and an impressive 15th-century studded door, which leads through to the central courtyard and the 20 bedrooms, bar and restaurant.
Inside, the property mixes 19th-century design with more contemporary features: French-style painted furniture and cherub sculptures blend in effortlessly with all mod cons, such as satellite TV and well-equipped bathrooms. Most rooms also have balconies or terraces with coastal or mountain views.
In the mornings, you can enjoy breakfast in bed or head for the main verandah which overlooks the hotel's 250 hectares of mango and avocado trees. It's here that dinner is served: smartly dressed waiting staff serve up a host of dishes such as gazpachuelo (a local specialty of white fish soup with monkfish and shrimp), braised Iberian pork cheek and con su galleta, a melt-in-the-mouth custard dessert.
If you do want to venture away from the hotel, however, the bustling market town of Velez-Malaga is just a five-minute drive away. Or head to the beach at Torre del Mar or the quieter resort of Maro.
Room rates start from 97 euros (£77) per night. To find out more, go to www.hotelcortijobravo.com
