Finca Buen Vino

Scotland with sunshine and sherry: an elegant, family-run guesthouse in the wooded Aracena hills

With all this global warming around, it seems a bit unfair that Scotland is losing the gulfstream and getting even colder than it already is. Perhaps that explains why Sam and Jeannie Chesterton, an energetic, multi-talented couple who had run shooting lodges in the highlands, moved to Andalucia. With uninterrupted views over undulating hills covered in dense oak and chestnut woods, and the little-known Moorish hilltown of Aracena at its doorstep, they found the perfect replica. The only snag was there was no house. So, in 1986 they built one (indeed multi-talented).

The result is a large pink affair sitting atop a hill, with a tiled roof, castellated walls, a panelled drawing room, a sweeping central staircase and characterful guest bedrooms. At this stage most people would sit back, pour themselves a sherry and enjoy the view from the shady terrace, the conservatory or the nearby open-air pool. But, to keep themselves busy, Sam renovated 3 family-sized cottages in the valley below, while Jeannie uses her Cordon Bleu skills to run summer cookery courses. Scotland's loss is Spain's gain.

Highs

• The family atmosphere, as if you are staying with friends
• The wonderful dinner - cuisine and company alike
• Jeannie also runs 7-day cookery courses for individuals, couple and groups of up to 8 people
• The setting, which feels in the middle of nowhere but is only an hour from Seville

Lows

• The large house can be cold in winter
• I you seek undisturbed privacy, the friendly, personal atmosphere may not suit
• If you dislike dogs and find nature dull then look elsewhere