Palacete de Cazulas

Magnificent 15th-century mansion in a lush valley between Granada and the coast, perfect for celebrating special occasions with friends (weekly rental, sleeps 12-24)

This wonderful Marquesa's mansion exudes all the history and style of the glorious era of Columbus. It dates from 1492 - the year he reached America - and, 500 years later, was immaculately restored along with its outbuildings by a British Hispanophile couple. They resuscitated the splendid Moorish gardens with tall palms, sculpted hedges and exotic lilies, and added a pool and tennis court for good measure. Paths lead to a belvedere, perched above lush chirimoya groves and dwarfed by the rugged peaks of the Almijarras: as stunning and romantic a spot as you could wish for.

The interiors do not disappoint: there's a splendid, vaulted drawing-room on the ground floor, and a dining room and games room too; upstairs are 11 stately bedrooms (2 of them perched at the top of the tower), with tall ceilings, antique furniture and garden views. If you're planning a house party, conference or wedding (there's even a private chapel), and looking for a stunning spot on the Med to do it, look no further.

Highs

• An exclusive, tranquil mansion at the head of the Valle Tropical above Almunecar
• Elegant and historic building with superb Moorish gardens
• Each bedroom has its own bathroom
• Magnificent vaulted drawing room with large stone fireplace
• Less than 2 hours' drive from Malaga, which has excellent air connections with most of Europe

Lows

• Winding mountainous road from the coast
• Stunning views but not suitable if you suffer from vertigo
• Only available for Saturday-Saturday rentals