Casa de Carmona

Fabulous 16th-century palace, elegant and stylish yet friendly and relaxing, in the charming town of Carmona, outside Seville

The Casa de Carmona is one of those special little hotels you'll want to return to again and again. Peaceful, welcoming, comfortable, furnished with grace and style, this palace has it all. It was built in the mid 16th-century in Moorish-Renaissance style – with 2 interior patios, broad landings, arched colonnades – and a loggia was added later.

But in 1986 it underwent a transformation at the hands of a Spanish Doña with a flair for decor. Terracotta walls and ochre arcades, having drunk in the summer's warmth, radiate it back like a Tuscan autumn. The sound of gurgling water accompanies you throughout this mini-Alhambra. A palm frond tickles the corner of every view. An inviting wicker chair is never far away, with a mosaic table for that chilled sherry from the well-stocked honesty bar. Behind the scenes, discreet hi-tech facilities and quietly efficient service ensure this remains a truly sensual haven, a secret oasis within striking distance of bustling Seville.

Highs

• The peace, the style, the comfort and the staff
• In the deluxe bedrooms, the furniture, fabrics and layout
• A groovy cocktail bar with lounge music, tapas and afternoon tea, for both guests and non-residents
• The little-known beauty of the town of Carmona and its sights

Lows

• This is a town residence, so don't expect large gardens or open views
• The pool is small and rather enclosed, making the courtyard feel cramped
• Some standard rooms are comparatively plain
• There's a sense the whole place is beginning to fray a bit around the edges, but recent renovations (April 2009) should improve this...