El Tejar is the highest house in the pretty, white-washed village of Montecorto, just a quarter of an hour's drive from Ronda. From its high, hillside perch there are magnificent views out to the peaks of the Grazalema Park. The house takes its name from the word ‘teja’ or 'tile' because terracotta floor and roof tiles were made here before the house was turned into a guest house.

This is one of the most special and most friendly, B&Bs in Andalusia and is open from September to May. For the rest of the year the house is rented on a self-catering basis. (www.rusticblue.com/zc12.htm)

The owner's philosophy is simple: 'mi casa es tu casa' - 'my home is yours, too'. Anyone wishing to escape corporate-style hotels and instead stay in a home-with-heart will love El Tejar. There are hundreds of books, masses of paintings, bright rugs and freshly cut flowers. And an honesty bar where you can help yourself to a drink.

The house has a deliciously labyrinthine feel and has been cut into a steep hillside on several different levels. Its décor has looked to Andalusia's Moorish past, and the earthy colours of North Africa for inspiration. Music is always present: it could be flamenco, jazz, blues, baroque or classical.

The bedrooms
There are just three - are generous, diaphanous spaces with views of the distant hills and mountains. There are the first class beds and linen, big bathrooms with heated towel rails and more flowers, books and paintings.

On a lower terrace is a beautiful pool, surrounded by bamboo, olive, quince and almond trees. This is heavenly spot to unwind whilst gazing out to the distant peaks of the Sierra.

What to do at El Tejar

El Tejar is a perfect place for doing very little! Many guests simply grab a book and abandon themselves to the peace and beauty. But if you're feeling more energetic there is loads to do….

Walking
There are beautiful mountain walks all around. Guy Hunter-Watts, the owner of El Tejar, knows the mountains like few others. He is the author of 'Walking in Andalucía' (Santana: ISBN 84-89954-14-3). Guy can provide you with route notes and hand-drawn maps of his favourite walks.

And whilst you're here you shouldn't miss:

Ronda
Just a quarter of an hour from the village.

Acinipo
A spectacular Roman theatre, hewn out of solid limestone, standing on a high plateau just above the village.

Cueva de la Pileta
A visit to the Pileta cave to see its 25000 year old troglodyte paintings is a must.

Los Pueblos Blancos
The pretty 'white’ villages of Grazalema, Zahara and Setenil are all close by.

Sevilla
Makes a good day excursion.

Jerez
Just an hour away where there are numerous bodegas and the Royal School of Equestrian Art.

Arcos
Another fascinating white town built on a spectacular ridge.

Travelling on from here?

Guy can best advise on where to stay. He is author of both 'Small Hotels & Inns of Andalucía' (Santana, ISBN 84-89954-18-6) and 'Special Places to Stay in Spain' (ISBN 1-901970-16-7).

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