Miranda and Hans Lucassen, who have spent the bigger part of their professional lives in Banking and Human Resources Managment always dreamt that one day they would run small hotel, where guests could relax, enjoy the countryside and reload their batteries. They fell in love with the surroundings of Ronda. The friendly and welcoming ‘Andaluces’, combined with the stunning natural setting, the historical and cultural sites nearby made them decide to reside here.
House hunting in Andalusia
Househunting in Andalusia started in 2010. Being lovers of old places themselves, the house should have lots of character and ooze the charm and warmth of Andalusia. Without any doubt it had to be an old Cortijo with a traditional courtyard, on a large plot of land to guarantee peace and tranquility for their guests. And so in 2011 they came across Cortijo El Guarda which ticked the boxes for them. After a year of hard work, refurbishing bedrooms and bathrooms, redesigning the complete interior and filing paperwork to get all the necesary licenses in place they propudly openes their doors in March 2012 and are looking back now on a very succesfull first half year.
Set within 4 acres with magnificent unspoilt views, this welcoming authentic home offers guests the privilege of space, the luxury of privacy and the pleasure of great personal service. The five double en-suite guestrooms were all part of the original cortijo and thus differ substantially in terms of size and atmosphere. Every one is different. Every one is unique. At the same time, however, they share the same standard of tasteful decoration and quality. The majority boast their own private terrace, and many have a traditional working log-burners for those cozy evenings ’in’. A relaxing slumber is certain in Emperor or King-sized beds with top-quality mattresses selected for comfort, dressed in the finest Egyptian cotton. The bathrooms exemplify pure rustic luxury with either Victorian roll-top baths or large walk-in showers, and all combine classic fittings with a totally natural feel … they are highly indicative of the owner’s commitment to working with the best local craftsmen. High pressure showers provide an energizing boost, whilst gorgeous towels, comfy bathrobes and high quality grooming products make bathing the pleasure it really should always be.
B&B Cortijo el Guarda, Arriate
Reading the reviews from clients at Tripadviser or Booking.com there is no doubt that Hans and Mirando are fullfilling their dream. Their aim was to offer a homely environment, at a high quality level. An authentic place where clients can enjoy luxury and tranquility. And they have succeeded! To mention some of the comments: “If there is heaven, it’s called cortijo el Guarda”, ” I wish I could have stayed longer”, “Wow, what an experience”, “Pure tranquility and elegance”. All comments about this B&B are raving. Miranda and Hans’ personal attention forevery detail to make the client feel welcome and at ease and is the key-factor to their success.
Tempted to book a long weekend to relax? Check all the details on their website: Cortijo El Guarda
Oscar Ernstsen | 19th November 2012