Dar Hajra
Montecorto, near Ronda, Spain
An unforgettable hideaway-for-2, sculpted around a rocky outcrop, with plunge pool and soaring mountain views (weekly rentals only)
Dar Hajra is secreted away in a forest above the little-known white
village of Montecorto, close to Ronda. Arriving by way of a narrow
path flanked by rosemary, lavender and honeysuckle it all looks
quintessentially Andaluz from the outside. Yet inside a big
architectural surprise awaits.
The house has been sculpted around a limestone outcrop and its
rock, planted out with cactii and succulents, adds a stunning
decorative element: Dar Hajra means ‘House of the
Rocks’. A pyramidal atrium and high, drop-arch windows draw
your eye out to the distant peaks whilst the waters of an
infinity-edge plunge pool appear to merge with the mountains and
the sky above.
This is a delectable place to hide away with a loved one, recharge
your batteries and leave sight-seeing to the rest of the world.
There's a big kitchen-diner, secluded terraces and
an eclectic collection of paintings, music, films and books. Drink
in the views, then pour yourself a glass of cava: you're bound to
slip into celebratory mood here.
Reviewed by Virginia Cornish-Bowden
Last updated 21 May 2012
Highs
- Clean-cut, contemporary open-plan architecture with masses of glass, which brings what's outside in
- You're 15 minutes' drive from Ronda and at the heart of some of Spain's most spectacular mountain scenery
- iPod docks, paintings and photographs, DVDs, books, maps, an iMac: this is no bog standard rental villa
- The solarium, terrace and plunge pool cleverly celebrate the exquisite vista out to the Grazalema mountains
- The house is set amongst stands of bamboo and olive and almond trees so privacy is guaranteed
- Perfect for a couple with a young baby (pre-toddling age)
Lows
- Montecorto, the village just below Dar Hajra, doesn't see much passing trade: if you're looking for action you'll need to slip into Ronda or head for Seville
- Access is by way of a steep track up through the forest, but it's negotiable in any type of car
- Don't expect the locals to speak much English but do expect big smiles and a warm welcome in the shops and restaurants
