From living in Andalucía since a young age, I have had the privilege to enjoy summer-like days in winter times in Andalucía! How lucky am I? If I wish to feel the arid sands and the fresh Mediterranean waves tickling my feet, rather than go hiking through the whistling forests in the mountains of Casares, I can just go down to the coast within 10-15 minutes (depends on who is driving, of course!). I feel quite powerful in that sense, when I sit on my terrace and look down on the sea, and then look up to the mountains and ask myself: “well, where shall I go today?”
This was today’s case. Regarding myself as a teenage girl, I can confess I have my sudden whims. I had already walked the dog, wandering around the forest paths. Later, while drinking some tea and admiring the horizon’s beauty I suddenly decided I wanted to go to the beach. I am able to enjoy the best of both worlds. A small detail I would like to remark on would be the fabulous January day the New Year gave us! Waves slowly rolling out on the seashore, a clear sky patched with dissolved sponges of clouds, and a temperature of 22 degrees Celsius! Again, this is January!
What is it like to live with children in Casares?
Many parents may ask themselves whether their children would be happy living in the middle of the countryside? I have been brought up here, and I can tell you from my own experience that it was a gift to me. I could open my door, and start exploring. I could open my door, and breathe fresh air, hear the birds sing and feel how the winds whispered through the colossal nature surrounding me. The village of Casares was at only 7 minutes from my house, so visiting friends or going to afterschool activities wasn’t a problem either. To live in some of these marvellous areas in Andalucía is indeed charming for both parents and children.
Nienke Ernstsen | 8th January 2014
