Hotel Enfrente Arte

Ronda goes rock'n'roll: a hip, eclectic and colourful guesthouse in the old town, with friendly staff and free drinks

This ancient mansion on one of Ronda's quiet back streets has been brilliantly rejuvenated by its young owners. As soon as you step inside, it's clear that this is no ordinary hotel: you’ll be shown how to pull a San Miguel from the tap, have the workings of the espresso machine explained (all drinks are included in the price), and made to understand that from now on you’re part of the family.

Original wafer-bricking, beams, terracotta tiles and rustic andaluz render are still in situ, but that's where tradition ends. In the 10 rooms you can expect earthy tones, retro furniture, ecletic items and masses of 50’s posters, accompanied by naïve paintings and mild erotica. In the luxuriant sub-tropical conservatory, you can follow stepping stones across fish ponds to a terraced garden; upstairs, jump from the sauna into the plunge pool, or enjoy amazing views of the mountains from the sun terrace. This place is spicy, informal and great fun.

Highs

• A great location: 5 minutes' walk from the old town centre, yet blissfully quiet
• Breakfasts here are among the best in Andalucia
• Young, forthcoming staff give you masses of tips on where to eat, which music to buy etc
• More home than hotel, with its trusting 24 hour "help yourself" policy
• The decoration is a breath of fresh air in a region which clings stubbornly to trad-rustic
• Hidden terraces and sitting areas; large netted garden area for hamsters and parrots

Lows

• Dark colours in an already dark building can create a slightly gloomy feel
• If you prefer to be served rather than serve yourself, look elsewhere
• It’s a steep, 5-minute haul up into town - but downhill all the way home!
• A place for the young and hip, although their parents love it here too