CASARES: A TRIP INTO THE REAL ANDALUCÍA

Casares, white village close to SotograndeThe luxurious estate of Sotogrande has from its very inception been focused on blending the most modern luxuries and amenities with the enchantment of traditional Andalucía.

The vision was—and remains—to build a community as an evolution of all that is best of the Andalusian lifestyle. Part of what makes Sotogrande so successful in achieving this is its proximity to what might be termed the ‘real Andalucía’ in the unspoiled countryside just minutes away.

Indeed, the ‘picture postcard’ white villages of Andalucía, which are known the world round for their beauty and charm, are within easy reach of the coast, forming an arc from the Campo de Gibraltar through the scenic mountains and natural parks that lead to Ronda. The most famous of these is Casares—and fortunately for us this spectacular World Heritage village is just a short 20 minute drive from Sotogrande.

Medieval layout evocative of Moorish times
Casares truly is a spectacular sight, with its bright white-washed village homes clustered under the walls of a Moorish fort that dominates the skyline as one approaches from the coast. The narrow cobbled streets—following the original medieval layout from the days of the Arab invaders—are evocative of past ages, leading as they do to a selection of ancient monuments from both the Islamic and Christian eras. Dominating the village are the imposing Arab fortress walls, but within them can be found the Catholic church of La Encarnación, which was constructed in the 16th Century on the ruins of the older fort.

Casares countrysideA stroll through the streets reveals the remains of Moorish mills and two gateway arches from the same period, while extending the walk into the surrounding fields unveils spectacular views down the valley to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea shimmering in the sun just 15 kilometres away. It is the perfect spot to enjoy nature too, with plentiful wildlife including a colony of Griffon vultures, soaring eagles and birdlife on migratory routes to Africa soaring overhead.

This combination of stunning architecture and natural beauty is something shared with Sotogrande. The protected marine estuary of the Guadiaro river estuary and the Natural Park that lays within the environs of the estate allow nature to flourish side by side with the sympathetically planned modern developments, making Sotogrande a true retreat from the stresses of the modern world.

Should you like to share in this beguiling lifestyle, please contact us—we have a selection of exceptional villas and apartments for sale in Sotogrande.

By The Holmes Team · May 5th 2016