Ermita del Carmen

Ermita del Carmen is a stunning 15th century chapel conversion, set within the soul-soothing natural heart of Andalucia.

Turn back time amongst superlative surroundings, with a stay in a divine chapel conversion located within the Andalucian natural park of la Subbética, an unspoilt paradise of Mediterranean woodland, mountain ranges and sweet-scented olive gardens.

Ermita del Carmen is a dream holiday home made beautifully real. Once a 15th century Roman sanctuary and later a chapel, this light, whitewashed building has been sympathetically remodelled by a team of architects. These days, you'll discover an incredible four-bedroom cottage complete with salt water swimming pool, for a Spanish break far removed from the traditional tourist beach villa.

Relaxation is mandatory here, and you'll find much to help you along! Breathtaking views are a given, with soothing forest scenery and lush olive groves visible in all directions. Meanwhile, superb attention to detail marks the serene history of your holiday home, such as the stone arch over the entrance.

Décor throughout is elegant, minimal and focused on comfort, along with contemporary artistic touches to feast your eyes upon. The living area is wonderfully spacious, complete with a grand, high ceiling and a glass wall that cleverly brings the outside inside - as well as flooding the room with natural light.

The ground floor also boasts a well-equipped kitchen and an en-suite bedroom.  Later on, take the open staircase to the mezzanine, complete with three cosy bedrooms and two indulgent bathrooms.

There are endless spaces for relaxation here. The living area opens out onto a charming terrace, while the 15 metre salt water pool is located in a beautiful fruit and vegetable tree-filled garden it would be a shame not to take the odd siesta in! You'll find a scenic seating area for cocktails, and even a relaxing hammock to settle yourself in with a good book, as you listen to the tranquil running water of the acequia (traditional water fountain).

Enjoy plenty of evenings taking refreshing dips, drinking in the unpolluted starry skies overhead along with your post-dinner tipple...because the wondrous Andalucian climate means that summer is a twenty-four hour activity here.

Harvest seasonal fruit and vegetables from the garden for home-made meals, or head out to the local villages for some traditionally mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine. Carcabuey is within walking distance and is a great start to your immersion in the real Andalucia, with friendly locals to chat with and a plaza brimming with tapas bars and authentic shops. Time to brush up on those Spanish-speaking skills!

Explore the immense beauty of your surroundings with scenic walks in all directions, including the famed Sierra de Cabra routes, with astounding places to visit including the sparkling Chorreras waterfalls. If you prefer the occasional bout of city life, a picturesque hour's drive will take you into Malaga, Granada or Cordoba.

So prepare yourselves for worship, because with so much quiet history and uniquely enthralling culture on offer here, you're sure to be captivated by Ermita del Carmen from the moment you arrive.  

Things to note

Pets are not permitted to stay, no smoking inside the accommodation.