Testimonials

"GREAT TIME IN LA HACIENDA"

My 2 friends and I, had a great week at Lianne & Jess’ house. We really enjoyed this week at la Hacienda. The house is clean, convenient and pleasant. The house is well situated, about 15 minutes drive from the little city of Iznajar (recently added at the world heritage of Unesco). Jess is there everytime when you need him; he is also a very nice and friendly host who not hesitate to give you precious advices, help and information. In the time, Jess knows how to respect your privacy and he will ensure that you have a pleasant stay. I recommend Jess as host if you want to discover the beautiful landscapes and enjoyed the sun of Andalusia.

Baptiste Martinez - stayed with friends - August 2014

"THE PERFECT ANDALUCIAN GETAWAY"

We stayed in the Casita at the very start of August 2014. Both myself and my fiance have had a hectic few months and really needed to calm down, relax and collect our thought and the Cortijo helped us do this and more!

The Casita is perfect for two, we were very comfortable and had everything we needed. Even though there were families staying in the other two villas, we had the pool to ourselves about 60% of the time which was lovely. In the late afternoon there were lots of other poolside visitors; swallows, lizards, butterflies, dragonflies and bats! As the olive grove slopes took on the golden glow of evening, we were able to watch buzzards too. We loved the evenings as the Cortijo the best.

From Las Olivas, we visited a quite a few places: Iznajar, Cordoba, Antequera and the stunning lake (we certainly did not miss the sea with this on the doorstep). The location of Las Olivas makes it an ideal base for people who want to take trips out and about to explore Andalucia. I loved getting back to my little Casita though and jumping in the pool (fully clothed). Jess is also an excellent host: he has loads of advice on where to go, what to see and where to eat. We can't wait to go back.

Laura stow - July 2014

"FAMILY WEDDING IN IZNAJAR"

A big party of us came to Iznajar for my Wedding which was taking place at Caso Pino Solo , as there were 30 of us and Caso Pino Solo only accommodated 20 we needed another villa for some of the family, & we were recommended Cortijo Las Olivas by Lisa the owner of Caso Pino Solo. I stayed at Caso Pino Solo but also spent time at Cortijo Las Olivas as Jess had said we were all welcome, it is a beautiful place with a real spanish feel, a great pool area and barbecue area with beautiful gardens. Jess the owner is wonderful & very helpful nothing is too much trouble. All of the guests that stayed at Cotijo Las Olivas were delighted with it and had a truly amazing holiday and are already planning to go back! Would highly recommend , thanks Jess and Lianne for all your help, Mandy (The Bride!)

Mandy Foss - July 2014

"BEAUTIFUL, STUNNING, AMAZING"

So just flew back from a week here to attend my sisters wedding at casa pino solo just through the olive groves, this little bit of paradise is truly beautiful, we rented all 3 villas as and each of them are fantastic. All the facilities you need are there, a fab pool, pool table, table tennis, BBQ, , jess the owner is absolutely delightful and nothing is too much trouble for him, we ran out of nappies for our granddaughter and asked him where we could get some and he came back 5 minutes later with a full packet , although a good hour or so from the coast, there is the most stunning lake just 5 minutes drive with a beach and pedalos etc and the water is cool and clear to enjoy a swim. From the bottom of our hearts , we truly fell in love with this place and would highly recommend it to those looking for a peaceful and relaxing holiday staying in traditional accommodation where you really experience the Spanish feel. So thank you jess , we will definitely recommend your lovely villas to family and friends and we hope to return at some point in the future , jo mark and family xxx

Jo and Mark - stayed July 2014

"RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES IN THE SUN AT CORTIJO LAS OLIVAS"

We really have enjoyed our stay at Cortijo Las Olivas . We stayed as a couple at the "La Hacienda". The kitchen as well as the bathroom was well occupied. The pool is very large and has an amazing view on the olive trees. We really had the chance to recharge our batteries in the sun. The location of Cortijo Las Olivas is amazing. Nearby you have a wonderful clear blue lake, where you can swim and kayak. Only one hour away you can visit Granada and Cordoba. And last but not least, Jess the owner of Cortijo Las Olivas helps you with everything you need! We definitely recommend a stay at Cortijo Las Olivas!

Esther - Antwerp - stayed as a couple - July 2014

"GREAT RELAXING LOCATION"

We have just had the most amazing time at Cortijo Las Olivas.We spent seven wonderful nights surrounded by the most beautiful scenery and were treated to great facilities and a fabulous host.The pool and bbq are looked after to the highest of standards and the accommodation is top notch!!I would highly recommend this location to anyone who is looking for a superb base with such easy access to some great sites all within easy diving distance.Our family will be back in the future with other friends and family as there is so much to see and do and with a host that would do anything to help you with your holiday makes sense to return.We cant say enough good things about our stay and wish all the best to the owner who is constantly upgradeing his accommodation.The kids will keep themselves busy between the great pool and table tennis and a snooker table certainly keeps all interested.

Paul Stock - England - stayed with family June 2014

"SUPER DUPER RELAXING STAY IN A WONDERFUL ENVIRONMENT"

We stayed 2 weeks in La Finca with the four of us (parents, 5 year old boy, 2.5 year old girl). The bedrooms are really nice with one of them having an amazing view on the pool and the environment and a lovely terrace. The kids loved the swimming pool as well as the pool table and the table tennis. Cortijo Las Olivas is very kids-friendly, we didn't have to worry about their safety. The place Iznajar and the lake are lovely. We also made bigger trips to Cordoba, Granada, Malaga, Marbella, Ronda. After a long day and after bringing the kids to bed we chose one of the beautiful terraces and had a bottle of wine and looked back at another lovely day. At Cortija Las Olivas, you really have the possibility to relax, it is so quiet and peaceful. The rose garden is also wonderful. And we also enjoyed the barbecue. Jess is very friendly and it was nice to have a chat with him. He was always willing to help! We really miss the place and probably once, we will be back!

Liesbet D - stayed with family - June 2014

"GOLLY GOSH"

Idyllic...! Due to arrive after a very late flight on a Saturday, I'd asked if some milk could be provided for me by host Jess for a vital cuppa on arrival - and discovered that he'd done a general shopping trip for me because all shops would be closed the following day! A fridge full of provisions was so welcoming and reassuring... Driving from Malaga airport, I'd overshot the correct turnoff in the dark but a call to Jess resulted in his driving out to meet me and lead me to La Finca! What a host! The property was just perfect. Spacious rooms, with all the extras you could need, from hairdryers/oven/microwave to TV & WiFi; a wonderful garden; a glorious poolside; and covered areas for both rainy and very hot days! The surrounding countryside is stunning, and access to the main roads is very close and easy, making day trips to Granada or Seville etc a very comfortable journey. I went to Granada, saving Seville for my return visit! The delightful Iznajar is just a 10 minute drive away. Heartily recommended - and thank you Lianne and Jess for all that you did!

Jules - La Finca - Stayed May 2014

"GREAT STAY IN CORTIJO LAS OLIVAS"

We stayed at the Cortijo Las Olivas with a family friends (5 persons). We lived in cottage Finca. Localization of cortijo is great for everyone who wants to relax in peace and quite. We loved the aera, the pool and the possibility to sit outsite, play snooker and make barbecue. Jess is very outgoing and cheerful person. Nothing caused the trouble. This place will stay in our memories for a long time. I sincerely recomend this villa to everyone!

Janusz Piotrowski - Poland - stayed May 2014

"INCLUSO MEJOR QUE ANTES"

Han sido dos días estupendos, hemos repetido después de la experiencia del verano pasado. Nos ha hecho un tiempo genial en el puente de mayo, hemos aprovechado la piscina y la nueva mesa de ping pong. Nos hubiera encantado poder quedarnos unos días más. El cortijo está precioso, Jess, como siempre, un anfitrión perfecto. Totalmente recomendable. Hemos vuelto a montar a caballo en el centro hípico Las Minas, también fenomenal. Hemos hecho una excursión entre los olivos de la zona...Insuperable.

Marcela Martinez - Spain - stayed May 2014

"A RELAXING SPANISH COUNTRYSIDE HIDEAWAY"

We have just arrived home from a truly wonderful holiday. We stayed in 'la Casita' which is one of the smallest villa's but it had absolutely everything we needed, including a fully functioning kitchenette and shower room.

We loved the fact that we could choose to sit outside our villa in the evenings and unwind with Sangria in our hands looking out over the villa's shared swimming pool and beautiful Spanish rural counryside.

Jess (the owner) is quite frankly awesome and is full of helpful advice and local knowledge. We were even given special treatment in local restaurants which Jess had personally checked out himself and built a relationship with.

I will be recommending to my friends and family and hope to visit again very soon. We actually felt sad to leave!

Clare and Adi Barrett - stayed April 2014

"RELAXING SPANISH GETAWAY"

In September, my boyfriend and I stayed a week in one of the houses of Cortijo Las Olivas. We had our own terrace and balcony. The swimmingpool was shared, but nice to have in the hot Spanish sun. The house contained everything we needed but was not luxorious. The location of the property was perfect for us because we wanted to explore Andalusia. The cities of Cordoba and Granada were a hour away. Smaller towns like Antequerra were also easy to reach by car. We did miss a shop nereby for getting breakfast in de morning but if you don't mind doing everything by car this isn't a problem. The silence of the location is great if you just want a relaxing holiday without any fuss. Jess, the owner, is always available for advice on dining out, the best tourist spots and do's en dont's in Spain. We absolutely enjoyed our vacation here.

Emily Ouwehad - stayed September 2013

"AMAZING! BOOK THIS NOW"

I stayed at the Cortijo in September with my partner. What can I say! Its a truly relaxing retreat and perfect for getting away. The pool is gorgeous and yes it is shared but at the most there was one other person in there at the same time! Jess is so welcoming and nothing is too much trouble. The apartment was authentically decorated and with lovely views over the olive groves. We visited Granada, which was beautiful and even hopped on a bus (one change) to Torremolinous for a night which was a great night out! Be sure to visit the Ice bar! You need to hire a car really due to the location but the roads are generally very good and everything is well signposted. Enjoy!

Abbi Smith - Stayed September 2013

"AN AMAZINGLY RELAXED WEEK"

I stayed at the cortijo with a group of friends for a relaxing week in the Spanish sunshine a while back. The location is stunning with mountains and olive trees as far as the eye can see. There are beautiful blue lakes and the stunning (and steep) local town of Iznajer. Jess was a wonderful friendly host who also happens to be a bit of a hustler on the pool table...we enjoyed many a game in the lovingly cared for court yard. Granada and Malaga are only a 35 minute drive away for days out and Granada is a particularly interesting town. For anyone looking for the real Spain, I would gladly recommed Cortijo Las Olivas.

Dan I - Stayed 2013 - With friends

"GREAT HIDE-AWAY BREAK"

My partner and I stayed for 5 days in Cortijo Las Olivas and we did not want to leave!!! It is the perfect tucked-away location where you can truly relax. The facilities are all you need and Jess - the owner is like the local encyclopaedia :) always happy to help! We had a great time, enjoyed the quiet surroundings and the crystal-clear water of the pool, the amazing local food and wine. Also with three main cities within a 90 minute drive there is plenty to explore around of you are of that preference. All in all we will certainly be back for more of the authentic Spain next year!

Aleksandra Matusik - Berkshire -Stayed September 2013

"L'ENDROIT QU'IL NOUS FALLAIT... PLUS LONGTEMPS"

Nous avons passé 5 jours en juillet 2013, à quatre (2 adultes et 2 jeunes ados) dans la hacienda du Cortijo. Nous avons autant aimé le logement pour sa simplicité et son espace bien conçu que pour l'environnement magnifique. La terrasse du bas pour manger et celle d'en-haut pour regarder les heures passer, dans un calme absolu.

Un séjour qui fut trop court pour nous, nous l'avons compris tout de suite. Car dans la région, on est tiraillé entre l'envie de bouger et visiter (mais tout est un peu éloigné - c'est le prix à payer pour être au calme) et l'envie de rêver au bord de la piscine. L'accueil fut immédiatement chaleureux. Jess est quelqu'un d'attentionné et discret en même temps.

Merci Jess ! On espère revenir au Cortijo dans un avenir proche.

Francoise Jacoby - Belgium - stayed July 2013

"A RELAXING SPOT IN THE MIDDLE OF ANDALUSIA"

My wife and I spent a very pleasant fortnight in "la hacienda". Jess is a wonderful person and gave us a lot of valuable advices. As it is situated in the middle of Andalusia we could visit all the interesting cities (Cordoba, Granada, Antequerra, Seville, Malaga...), and a lot of touristic spots around. And as Cortijo Las Olivas it is quiet, sunny and fresh we could also rest days by the swimming pool. Very good remembering, Thanks Jess and Thanks Lianne.

Christian and Brinne - Paris - stayed August 2013

"RELAXING HIDEAWAY IN AUTHENTIC SPAIN"

My boyfriend and I spent 6 days here, leaving yesterday and we were truly gutted to be leaving. On our arrival we were greeted by Jess, the owner, who made us feel immediately at home and showed us to our villa. We stayed in La Casita which is the smallest of the villas, but it was more than enough for us, and opened right out onto the pool area which was beautiful. The villa, gardens and pool area were always very clean, there's also a BBQ and pool table for guests to use. Las Olivas is very easy to find, following the directions given on the website. The drive took about 50 minutes from Malaga airport, and was a very easy drive considering it was my first time driving abroad! We went for a relaxing holiday and didn't do much apart from sunbathing around the pool area. We did visit Inzajar lakes which were amazing, and definitely worth seeing by all who visit here... You don't need to be near a beach when you've got them nearby. Jess has a wealth of information about the surrounding area, and will tell you about places to visit and eat locally or further afield depending on what sort of holiday you are after. He is always around and happy to help, but never intrusive. All the food places he recommended were very reasonable and the food was lovely, we were spending about 30 euros a night on meals and drinks for us both. We'd recommend the paella in Los Pajaritos and the mixed grill in El Charcon, both places recommended by Jess in the welcome pack! Overall, we had a fantastic time here and will definitely return!!

Stacey and Lee Arundel - stayed August 2013

"ESTUPENDA PISCINA ENTRE OLIVOS"

Nos ha encantado nuestra estancia en el cortijo Las Olivas. Jess es un anfitrión encantador, a la casita (La Finca) no le falta de nada, amplia y agradable. Nuestros dos hijos han aprovechado al máximo la maravillosa piscina, que alternábamos con clases de equitación en un club hípico cercano. Por la noche, después de cenar en a la luz de las estrellas, partida de billar. Nos hubiera gustado tener más tiempo para charlar con nuestros vecinos -ingleses y franceses-, que eran muy simpáticos. Además visitamos Córdoba, Antequera... La relación calidad-precio, también muy buena (única pega menor, el wifi, que es lento, con poca cobertura y se paga aparte). Por lo demás, lo recomendamos totalmente.

Marcela Martinez - Madrid - stayed August 2013

"BEAUTIFUL PLACE, EXCELLENT VALUE"

We spent a fortnight at Cortijo las Olivas, one week just my husband and myself then we were joined by our grown up son so we moved from La Hacienda to La Finca half way through our stay. Both could maybe benefit from a little TLC but it was so reasonably priced that we didn't feel we could complain too much. The pool was great after a long hot day of sightseeing and my husband and son thoroughly enjoyed the pool table. We visited Cordoba, Sevilla, Granada, Ronda, all within fairly easy reach, and El Torcal and Antequera were great too. The highlight of the second week was the whitewater rafting (Salta Rios, see link on the accommodation website which has lots of very good information.)

Jess is a great host, happy to chat but does not intrude, very helpful and obliging (did my washing on two occasions) and Lianne, who handles the bookings, could not have done more to help.

We don't tend to holiday in the same place twice but if we did I'd have no hesitation at all in going back or in recommending the Cortijo to our friends.

Lesley Hollis - stayed August 2013

"ENDROIT IDEAL POUR LE REPOS ET LA VISITE DE TOUTE L'ANDALOUSIE"

Nous venons de passer une semaine à Las Olivas ou nous avons bien profité de la piscine avec nos 2 ados L'endroit est tres reposant parmi tous les oliviers ,.Le propriétaire est discret mais cependant tres disponible et à l"écoute pour toute demande ,Cet endroit est super bien placé pour la visite de nombreuses villes comme Grenade , Antéquéra , Cordoba ,Iznajar bien sur , Malaga .... Les routes qui rejoignent toutes ces villes sont belles et rapides .
Je conseille cette location à tous

Fabienne Pinto - Sable - Stayed July 2013

"EXCELLENT, RELAXING HIDEAWAY"

Spent five thoroughly enjoyable, totally days round the pool. Room comfortable and clean, stunning views and Jess (the owner) is a wonderful host – full of information, helpful but not intrusive. Ask him anything, he is a mine of local knowledge and advice. Although we didn’t use it there is a BBQ (and pool table) in the garden. There are number of reasonably priced places to eat within 10 minutes in a car. Defiantly recommend it and will return sometime

Brendan Walsh - stayed July 2013

"A PERFECT HOLIDAY IN REAL SPAIN"

Wow what an amazing place. I travelled to Cortijo Las Olivas in July with my wife and some friends looking for a relaxing holiday to unwind and see some sites in and around the area. As soon as we arrived Jess made us feel very welcome, showing us to our villa and telling us a bit about the area. The villa was very clean and tidy and perfect for what we were after. This is the rustic, real Spain that we wanted, not a generic western hotel room with no character or charm. Our room had a lovely balcony/terrace with table and chairs where we could sit out and enjoy breakfast or an al fresco evening meal.

The pool was very refreshing and fed from and underwater bore hole so the water was crystal clear and didn’t have excessive chemicals in. I could have stayed by the pool all holiday but we decided to venture out and see some of the local attractions. The lake in Iznajar was fantastic to go and cool off in. Although we didn’t use the watersports centre ourselves, there were plenty of people out on kayaks and windsurfers having a great time. We also visited the Alhambra which is 100% worth the trip. My advice would be to get there for 8.30am when it opens to avoid the crowds and also the midday sun. This palace and gardens is unmissable if you are visiting this area. There are plenty of other things to do and see but Cortijo Las Olivas was so welcoming that we spent a lot of our break just relaxing by the pool, eating, drinking and playing some pool in the evening (on a proper pool table)

I am not one to take the time to write reviews very often but felt compelled to after the hospitality we were shown by the owner Jess and his friendly daughter Lianne. It is great to see a family business that puts the comfort and happiness of it guests first. We will definitely return.

Tom Harvey - stayed July 2013

"RELAXATION AND SUN IN THE REAL SPAIN"

I visited the Cortijo Las Olivas with some friends for a short break to get in some sun and relaxation. As a busy mum of two my husband was treating me to a few days to 'me' time and the Cortijo was the perfect place!

We arrived at Malaga airport in the early evening and hired a car for the short 1 hour trip to the Cortijo. The fab directions on the website meant that we were out of the city and making our way through the Spanish mountains and Olive groves without issue.

On arrival at the villas we were warmly greeted by Jess the owner and his adorable dogs Harry and Meena. Meena and I became good friends during my stay - I came away with some lovely pictures of her to show my little boy (she was a bit too big to fit in my suitcase!)

We were staying in the Finca which over looks the beautiful courtyard garden and has a double and twin room with one small double and a single bed. I chose to sleep in the small double which was very comfortable.

The day after our arrival we spent the whole day by/in the pool which was just fantastic. We took advantage of the pool inflatables and alternately had a swim, float on a lilo and lounge on a sun chair. It was the perfect introduction to our little break and we were able to relax from day 1.

It was very hot during our stay and one afternoon I chose to stay in the villa and read whilst my friends paid a visit to the local lake - they had an wonderful time and so did I! It was lovely to sit in the cool villa with a good book and take time to chill. The surroundings lend themselves to taking time out, it is very peaceful and relaxing.

During our trip we also paid a visit to the Alhambra in Granada which is an hours drive away from the Cortijo. As a photographer I was in my element! It is a stunning national monument - the Nazrid Palace and Generalife gardens were particularly spectacular - well worth a visit. Make sure you allow at least half a day for the trip (although you need a day to see everything) and arrive early as the crowds can get very busy later in the day. We arrived at 8.30am and had a very pleasant visit.

One thing I also should mention is the quality and very reasonable cost of the food. Our visit to the local supermarket saw us fill our trolley with fresh fruit, meats and fish as well as a few bottles of wine and water - basically everything we needed between the 4 of us for 3 days and it came to just over £25 (30 euros) each. We eat like kings deciding to have BBQ's each night starting the meals with Tapas and ending with chunks of beautifully sweet melon and a few games of pool on the full size table beside the courtyard area.

If you are looking for a relaxing time away I cannot reccomend Cortijo Las Olivas highly enough. As well as holidaying with friends it would also be great for couples, familes, and even indiviudals. I would reccomend hiring a car which if booked in advance is VERY reasonable (<£60 for our trip including insurance).

I will definitely be returning to the Cortijo, and look forward to bringing my family along next time!

Thank you Jess for making our trip so wonderful. GIve Harry and Meena a cuddle for me :-)

Kathryn Pike - stayed July 2013

"PURE RELAXATION ON A REAL SPANISH GETAWAY"

Some friends and I were recommended the Cortijo Las Olivas when we were looking for a 3 day break and I cannot rate this holiday venue high enough! We flew into Malaga airport which was only an hours drive away and got a great deal on car hire as recommended by the owners when we booked. There is some breath taking scenery on the drive to the Cortijo and the directions were clear so we had no problems getting there.

The owner, Jess, is one of the most friendliest, welcoming person I have ever met and he quickly showed us to the villa we were staying in, La Finca, leaving us to it and letting us settle in. The villa was beautifully rustic and perfect for our needs, my partner and I stayed in the double bedroom which had a balcony/terrace with seating with stunning views. Our friend stayed in the other upstairs bedroom which had plenty of space and comfort.

We spent a great deal of our time in the beautiful pool, soaking in the view of the hillsides and olive groves. We spent some time playing on the full size pool table and using the unique BBQ. There are shops and a supermarket not too far away to stock up and the villa had a great kitchenette so we could cook some things on the hob and store bits in the fridge. Make sure you stock up with water if visiting in the summer as you'll get through it quick enough!

I do a daily yoga practice and being able to do it either on the balcony or by the pool in the mornings with the sunrise peaking up over the hills was simply magical. We also took some day trips to the lake in Iznajar which was great for cooling off and had watersports for hire which I would definitely look into when we visit again! Also unmissable is a visit to the nearby gardens and palaces of Alhambra in Granada..... Book in for the early slot to avoid the majority of the crowds!

Overall our time spent at the Cortijo Las Olivas was superb! This is a great place to use as a base when visiting the region or just to stay put, relax and recharge the batteries. Many thanks to Lianne for helping us book our trip and Jess and his amazing stories as well as his amazing hospitality. Mucho Bueno!!

Jennifer Harvey - stayed July 2013

"STUNNING LOCATION FOR A FAMILY HOLIDAY. FABULOUS POOL AND BARBEQUE AREA, AND THE OWNER WAS SO LOVELY WE DIDNT WANT TO LEAVE."

Cortijo las olivas is situated in a stunning location amongst the olive groves. We were a family of five and found there were so many different places we wanted to go we could easily have stayed another 2 weeks, including lobo park, aqualand, el torcal park, mijas, Granada etc. lake iznajar is nearby and is stunning. The pool was fantastic and our children had a ball in it. There is a great BBQ area with pool table and the gorgeous garden area was great to sit in whilst relaxing with a glass of wine. Jess the owner is such a lovely man and couldn't have done enough for us, and the children just loved him and his dogs mina and Harry....so much so they didn't want to leave. Lots of great places to eat around about and jess gives lots of helpful info. A great place to have a chilled holiday or if your after adventure as long as you have a car there is lots to explore. We are sad to be home and will miss waking up to the beautiful view, stunning pool and fabulous hospitality of jess. Excellent holiday and really good value for money.

Pauline Cochrane - Scotland - Stayed June 2013

"FAMILY HOLIDAY"

This is the perfect getaway, at an affordable price, in beautiful rural Spain. Loved the rustic charm of the apartment, and the easiness of Jess the owner, always on hand to help out with any enquiry we may have had. This is a beautiful part of Spain, and well worth a visit, with so many places to see. We would love to come back to this area, as we have still a lot to explore, and we just never tire of the beautiful scenery! It was lovely to come back from our excursions, and have a dip in the lovely pool, then maybe a bbq, washed down with some lovely Spanish wine, which just finished the day nicely. Just loved our visit to Las Olivas, and hopefully will return!

Morag Mollon - stayed June 2013

"AN ABSOLUTE MUST"

If you want to experience a rural traditional spain, this is the perfect place to do it from! Set amongst spectacular mountainous views, its tranquille and unblemished location makes it the ideal place for peace and quiet. The villa was spacious and well maintained, and its clear to see that the owner Jess has put his heart & soul into every detail, I cannot praise and thank him enough for how welcoming and caring he was during our stay. A car is essential, but the villa is really easy to find and some of Spain's most amazing wonders are within an hours drive (Do not miss the Alhambra!!) You also get a welcome pack full of local restaurants which are personally recommended and whether travelling as a family or a couple, this place really is an absolute must.

Room Tip: We stayed in the Hacienda which was ideal with our 2 year old boy.

Jamie Askew - Liverpool. UK - Stayed June 2013

"CHARMING RETREAT IN THE OLIVE GROVES"

Traveling on my own, I stayed in the casita for 2 nights in June. The apartment was lovely, especially the charming old beamed ceiling in the bedroom. I also enjoyed having breakfast every morning at my table in the courtyard planted with gorgeous roses. It is so peaceful and such a lovely rural location right in the middle of all the olive trees, that one can easily spend the whole day at the cortijo. The pool was absolutely sparkling and I had it all to myself.

Jess, the owner who lives there, was full of local tips and is a delight to chat with. I had forgotten my bathing suit and he produced one for me to borrow!

I absolutely loved the short drive down the dirt track and splashing through the little stream - it was all part of the adventure. It's a really great value for money as well.

Wanda - Switzerland - stayed June 2013

"ABSOLUTELY PERFECT"

A week in June - some relaxation, peace and quiet and sunshine - that's all we wanted. We got that, a million times over!

The location is stunning, peaceful yet easy to drive to a few local villages and towns. The directions from Malaga are spot-on and so easy, the road infrastructure to Iznajar is so great.

The cottage was comfortable and had all the facilities we needed. We loved the rustic charm so much.

The gardens and pool were second to none.
Our cottage opened out onto the pool area, with table and chairs just for us, so we sat under the stars, watching the bats and hearing nothing apart from the fantastic wildlife noises in the olive groves surrounding us, in the evenings after dinner.

We ate out every evening having been recommended some good restaurants. We didn't have one complaint about any of the food, it was all super.

It's also easy to drive to the large supermarket 15 mins away to stock the fridge with everything you need if you don't fancy eating out.

The area is picturesque, Cortijo Las Olivas is wonderful and Jess is fantastic - you made our holiday much more enjoyable! We enjoyed our chats and hearing your stories, we were sad to say goodbye to you, Meena and Harry. You made us so welcome and at ease.

We weren't sure we'd be good at this type of holiday (we go every year to European Cities) but Las Olivas has converted us for sure!

Jess, we will be back to see you that's definite, you are wonderful and what you have at Las Olivas is amazing! As long as you can promise the same weather we had last week ...?! :)

Thank you Lianne also, for all your pre-holiday help and assistance. We felt well looked after even before we arrived.

From start to finish, definitely our most enjoyable holiday.

See you next year Jess!

Mel & Nick Wade - England - stayed June 2013

"PEACEFUL AND RURAL PLACE"

We spent a very pleasant week in May at Cortijo Las Olivas. We enjoyed the convenient location, not far from the great places of Andalusia and the very beautiful village of Iznajar. We appreciated the nicely-decorated patio and the terrace of our own where we had our dinners. Even though we had no time to try the swimming-pool, we think it's a worthy asset. Last but not least, we are thankful for the quietness of the place and the discreet presence of the owner.

Catherine Perronette - France - stayed May 2013

"ANDALUSIAN RETREAT"

Cortijo de las Olivas was a much needed and perfect retreat for our family after months of travel. The location was rural and peaceful, but with a car it was the perfect location to visit Andalusia: the nearby Moorish hilltown of Iznajar, Granada and Cordoba about and hour away, and, further afield, all the magical "pueblos blancos". the grounds have a fantastic pool, always invaluable with kids. Plus I got to teach my kids to play billiards which they loved. Best of all is the host, Jess. He was always helpful, and went out of his way to be so. We had some major problems and he was right there to assist us, and I saw him do the same for other guests who had had troubles in Cordoba. He is also a pleasure to speak with due to his wealth of experience and great storytelling abilities; I thoroughly enjoyed my conversations with him and remember them well. It is classic Andalusian architecture as well. Can't recommend highly enough.

Charles - Arizona - stayed September 2012

"RURAL ANDALUCIA AT ITS BEST"

Cortijo Las Olivas is the perfect retreat for those of you looking for a taste of rural authentic Andalucia. It is a perfect location for either chilling out or getting out and about along quiet excellent roads to visit Antequerra, Granada or Cordoba etc (you can see where EU infrastructure grants have been put to good use in Spain!) .

The directions provided from Malaga airport were straightforward and we arrived without any wrong turns even though we were travelling at night!

We booked La Finca so we had 2 separate bedrooms, one of which had direct access to a lovely roof terrace with fantastic uninterrupted views over surrounding olive groves and hills.
The accommodation is basic and simple which is totally inkeeping with being a Finca. We also loved the courtyard garden setting and patio area.

The communication and booking/payment process through Lianne in the UK; and the welcome and assistance from Jess when you are there; are both second to none. Jess went beyond the call of duty by taking me into Iznajar at 7am to catch a local bus and washed some of our clothes in his own washing machine. You wouldn't get that kind of customer care on a package holiday!

All in all a great experience, a new part of Spain discovered and really good value for money.

We will definitely be returning sometime in the not too distant future.

Thank you Lianne and Jess.

Karen & Faye - Scotland - Stayed September 2012

"A PEACEFUL RETREAT"

After a busy weekend in the hustle and bustle of Seville, we wanted somewhere to relax and recharge our batteries, and that was exactly what we got. My partner & I stayed in La Casita, which is the smallest of the accommodation on offer at Las Olivas, but has everything you need including a well equipped kitchen area and en suite bathroom, and even a TV with British Sky if you feel the need! It's also poolside so we didn't have to stumble far to a sun lounger in the mornings! The pool is immaculate and the owner, Jess, told us all the water on the property is supplied by its own well from an underground laguna - you can't get more natural than that! The garden is beautiful, and it was lovely to sit out there in the evenings with a drink, have a game of pool, or cook up some local produce on the barbecue.

The surrounding area is absolutely gorgeous and Las Olivas is well situated for visiting local towns and attractions. It's also very cheap - less than 25 euro for 3 litres of red wine, a 6 pack of beers, tons of fresh fruit and veg, along with cheese, eggs and meats from the deli counter in the local tiny 'supermarket' in Iznajar town! A fresh loaf of bread from the bakery just up the road will set you back about 60 cents!

Jess was a fabulous host and very knowledgeable about the best places to go in the local area, including lots of recommendations for restaurants serving good quailty food without the 'tourist prices'. He couldn't do enough to make sure we had a wonderful stay, which we did! I would definitely stay here again, it would be a great place for a group as the 3 cottages combined sleep up to 12 people.

There's only one tiny criticism I could make of La Casita, and that is that the shower could do with an update as it does tend to soak the floor. However, this is a very minor detail, and considering all the other amazing positives this place has, we still couldn't give it any other rating than 'excellent'. Thank you Jess for a fabulous holiday! Hopefully you will be seeing us again very soon!

Muller-lite - Manchester - stayed September 2012

"WONDERFUL, PEACEFUL, RECHARGED"

We looked at taking a week off at almost the last minute, and after much searching on line, we were lucky enough to book Las Olivas (thanks Lianne for all your help!) The Tripadvisor reviews were excellent and it was just as we'd hoped: peaceful, very relaxing and ideal if you want to unwind. We stayed in La Casita which was very clean, had everything we needed and, best of all, opened directly onto the pool area. We made breakfast and sat by the pool every morning. The pool is, simply put, the cleanest I've ever seen and sourced from their own natural well.

A big mention must go to the amazing host, Jess, and his beautiful dogs, Meena and Harry. Jess was very welcoming and always helpful, nothing was too much to ask. We had some great chats and his knowledge of the local area was helpful, but apart from the 'host' role we felt that we really got to know him quite well in the short space of time we spent there. What a quality gentleman :)

You'll need a car of course, as all restaurants and hotspots are all driving distances away. We cooked one meal at the Casita, but ate out every other night. La Paloma (10-15 mins drive away) was excellent, highly recommend.

We left England quite stressed, needing a last minute break to try and recharge, and that was just what we got. Good sleep, lovely clear starry nights and almost absolute silence which was fantastic. We already miss you Jess, Meena and Harry

Nomsquad - Stayed September 2012

"FAMILIENURLAUB IN ENTSPANNTER ATMOSPHARE"

Einfach, familienfreundlich, tolles Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis und äußerst angenehme, diskrete Atmosphäre. Einfach zum Wohlfühlen und zum Entspannen. Guter Ausgangspunkt für eine Vielzahl von Ausflügen in die schönsten Städte und Orte Andalusiens, in erträglicher Distanz für Tagesausflüge zum Meer. Der Strand des nahe gelegenen Lake Iznajar ist eher eine Kuriosität und u.A. nicht wirklich geeignet für einen Badeurlaub, dennoch sehenswert.

Gabrielle S - Vienna, Austria - Stayed August 2012

"A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY WITH AMAZING POOL"

My husband and I spent 10 lovely nights at Cortijo Las Olivas and it certainly won't be our last. Jess is a wonderful, knowledgeable, kind man who makes sure you enjoy your holiday. The pool is the most amazing I've ever swam in and I've swam in a few as this is my preferred choice of activity. I'm not sure you'll find another quite like it - Oh how I miss it... You won't be disappointed if you take a visit here - just don't tell too many people about it as word soon gets around and places as lovely as this soon become well known! Thank you Jess for being so sweet - we miss Harry, Mabel (well she's Mabel to us!) and you too. God bless you.

Dr Martin and Cllr Martin - stayed July 2012

"OUR HOME FROM HOME"

We have stayed at Cortijo Las Olivas 8 times. It is an amazing place comprising of three self catering villas. The complex has a wonderful swimming pool that is feed directly from a natural underground spring – quite possibly the most refreshing pool we’ve ever experienced. The courtyard provides lovely afternoon shade to take a break from the sun and enjoy the beautifully landscaped garden.

The vista from the pool offers rolling hills of olive plantations with the occasional villa dotted around. I recommend hiring a car – the surrounding area is stunning, the main road cuts through the olive plantations and nestled in the valleys are cute little towns providing excellent local cuisine from a selection of bars and restaurants. 5 miles up the road is a hillside town called Iznajar (pronounced ith-nar-har). The near vertical streets to the top, where a beautiful church is situated, boasts the most incredible panoramic view for miles. The town is located right by the lagoon (natural reservoir) – the water is a beautiful emerald green and turquoise and has a restaurant on one of the beaches.

In summary, this is a breath taking, relaxing get away to catch your breath and catch some sun. We cant wait to go back. 10 out of 10.
Note: Europcar offers the best car rental prices at Malaga or Granada airports.

Jonathan A. - stayed several times - April 2012

“STUNNING LOCATION - PEACE AND RELAXATION!”

WOW! What an amzing location! Set in the rolling mountains of Andalucia yet with loads to do in the area! We went for a quiet, relaxing family holiday for a week and couldn't ask for more. The mornings were spent visiting the beautiful rural towns of Loja, Antequera and Iznajar and the rest of the day by the pool before heading out to sample some of the best regional food in the world (try the Iberian pork - TO DIE FOR!).
Granada and the Alhambra is within an hour and well worth a visit too - and with Mandy and Jess (the most brilliant owners!) local knowledge you can be sure to find something to cater for every taste.
We rented out all 3 villas and they were great - everything you need without pretending to be something they're not, clean and functional with design touches giving you the feel of real rural Spain.
Overall we had a fantastic time and will definitely return. I work in the self catering industry, as does my partner, and you can take it form us that this is a real winner!!

The Davies Family - stayed April 2011

"HIGHLY RECOMMENDED"

We have stayed at Cortijo Las Olivas numerous times and have recommended it to friends and family. The apartments are charmingly Spanish, clean, comfortable and open up onto a delightful courtyard full of sweet smelling flowers and shaded sitting area. The large pool provides opportunities for sunbathing and cooling off, whether you want to swim or play in the water.

The owners are welcoming and will do everythng they can to make your stay happy.

Easy access to many places of interest - Granada, Cordoba, Malaga, and to local attractions. This is ideal for families, groups and also provides a romantic setting for couples.

Poppy Andalucia - stayed August 2011

"RURAL SPANISH IDYLL"

What a fantastic holiday! From the moment we arrived it was like home away from home, but only better! The Villa was superb (with balcony), the hosts a delight, the location perfect for exploring the south of Spain, and most of all just so relaxing and free of any usual holiday stress. Whether we were having a nap in the endless sun by the pool after exploring the ancient town of Iznajar, or reclining around the fire after a stupendous BBQ and contemplating a game of pool. It was just superb, and understated, and completely perfect! If we only make one plan next year it will be to return here. There is no bette way to recharge the batteries. I really could not recommend Cortijo Las Olivas highly enough.

Tony Harkess - travelled with partner - August 2011

"ANDALUSIE TEMIDDEN VAN DE OLIJFBOMEN"

Aangekomen bij de Cortijo dachten we in de middle of nowhere terecht gekomen waren. Maar niet veel later genoten we van het prachtig uitzicht en was dit wel degelijk een plek om tot rust te komen. De Cortijo is gelegen in een vallei op ong. 7km van Iznajar, een dorpje mooi gelegen op een heuvel met uitzicht op een groot meer. De Cortijo heeft 3 'vakantiehuisjes' waarvan wij, met onze kids van 4 en 6 het grootste hadden ( Finca ). Het huisje was eerder sober ingericht maar alles wat we nodig hadden, was aanwezig. Omdat we de enige bezoekers waren hadden we het zwembad en de binnenplaats voor ons alleen. Eten, spelletjes spelen en poolen deden we buiten onder het terras van golfplaten en stuttingen. Eigenaars Jess en Mandy hadden nog wat renovatiewerken gepland, jammer dat Mandy een rugoperatie tegemoet ging. Ondanks dat we meer luxe gewoon zijn ( verwend :) ), hebben we hier een prachtige tijd gehad in het midden van Andalusië.

Yves Boets - Stayed July 2011

"IDEAL SPOT FOR A RELAXING BREAK"

I spent a long weekend here in June last year with my girlfriend and had a great time. The location is great if you are looking for a tranquil base in which to explore the incredible surroundings that the area has to offer. The swimming pool is massive so we managed to burn a few calories after eating far too much from the BBQ! The courtyard is very pretty and has a pool table and large dining area. We found the villa to be very comfortable and we woke up refreshed each morning.

Overall if you are looking to experience rural Spain, whilst still retaining some creature comforts then I would definitely recommend a stay here. Iznajar is a very sociable and friendly place and we will definitely be back.

Dave from London - travvelled with partner - Stayed June 2011

"AMAZING AND INCREDIBLE VALUE"

9 of us have stayed here twice spread around the 3 "Hasienda's" all beautifully individual. We had so much fun playing in the pool (we are all grown ups!) and sharing amazing meals in the evenings made from exceptional (and cheap) local produce. Can't reccomend enough for a group of friends but likewise would suit families and couples alike. Plenty of local atttractions and Jess and Mandy really made us feel part of the family. Fantastic location and would reccomend on all counts.

Annie Reading - travelled with friends - May 2011 and 2010

"GREAT LOCATION, GREAT FACILITIES, GREAT PLACE"

My girlfriend and I spent 2 weeks here in summer 2011 not knowing what to expect. We were delighted with our room which boasted a full working kitchen as well as comfy double bed and private bathroom. Always a bonus having somewhere to keep your beer cool. There were 3 apartments in total and all were clean and comfortable. We had organised a big trip to southern spain with some friends and this place was absolutely perfect. It easily berthed 2 couples and a pair of friends with the added bonus of a swimming pool to cool off in. There are beautiful walks in the area through the olive groves and around the lake. It is within less than an hours driving distance of both Malaga and Granada (Granada is my favourite) and the hosts themselves were a delight. We wanted for nothing. My recommendation is - if you are staying in southern spain and want somewhere out of town to relax, then this is the place for you!

Johnny Booth - Travelled with partner - stayed May 2011

"EXCELLENTLY EQUIPPED VILLAS AND A VERY PEACEFUL LOCATION"

i spent a week here in april 2011 with a few friends and family, me and my wife stayed in 'la finca' which is a comfortable well kitted out villa. it has a lovely balcony which i spent many a late evening on staring up at the multitudes of stars on show. local shops are only a 5 minute drive away and the local town is only 15 - 20 mins away. the villa is in a great location as it is a central point between some main attraction such as granada and the sierra nevada national park about an hour to the east and malaga about the same to the south. i would highly recommend a stay at this location.

David F - Travelled with friends and family - stayed April 2011

"ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES I HAVE EVER BEEN"

Staying at Cortijo las Olivas was one of the greatest experiences for both of us.

House itself is quite pleasent and nice, the owners are beautiful and correct people, sleeping is peaceful and bracing. Two of the most beautiful cities of andalucia, Granada nad Cordoba, are approximately 100 km from this place, so if you are coming here you definitely need to come by car, cause it would be shame not to see them. Village of Iznajar and other villages nearby you simply must visit.In one word the holiday was amazing.

Jelena and Dusan - Belgrade, Serbia - Stayed April 2011

"A VERY SPECIAL PLACE"

My husband and I were lucky enough to stay in this peaceful and beautiful cortijo for our anniversary in October 2010. We spent 5 days here and every day was just as blissful. The olive groves surrounding the property add to the Spanish serenity, and the cortijo itself is quaint, comfortable and authentic! The generosity and kindness of our hosts made the holiday so much more homely, and in fact we loved our time there so much that we named our daughter Olivia - she was conceived during that wonderful week! She will always be a reminder of how perfect our second anniversary was!

Elizabeth Andrzejeweski-Wilson - Florida - Stayed October 2010

“LOVELY ACCOMODATION IN A BEAUTIFUL AREA"

Lovely accomodation in a beautiful area. This self catering accomodation was immaculate. The courtyard that the property is set around was lovely with all you would need to enjoy outside dining. And then their is the pool, very re-freshing after exploring the sights!

Aside from this, the hosts are welcoming, helpful and very informative about the area, language and culture. All in all a great place to stay for your holiday.

Lis Barter - travelled with friends - stayed October 2010

“RELAXING BREAK IN RURAL SPAIN”

Me, my wife and our 3 year old have stayed here 3 times in the last 3 years, and that alone speaks volumes for this place. We keep returning as the accomodation set in picturesque scenery and has everything we need, including a great pool, comfortable accomodation and a fantastic host.

We really couldn't ask for anything more at such a reasonable price.

You will definately need your own car, but finding Cortijo Las Olivas is easy using the instructions provided on the website, and the benefits of having your own car pay off when you realise how much there is to see in the local area.

Iznajar is a picturseque village set on a hill side with lots of white washed houses, that looks fantastic at night all lit up. Granada with the Alhambra is lovelly, and of course there are lots of great traditional bars and restaurants to try. We always have a nice relaxing time and will again be returning soon.

The Rose Family - stayed September 2010

"A GEM OF A PLACE"

I have stayed at this property on two occasions with a group of 8 friends in June 2010 and again in September 2011 . The owners Mandy and Jess made us feel very welcome but never encroached on our space. The accommodation was really nice and a spacious, with a lovely outside area where you can have BBQs and play pool. The swimming pool is clean and of a good size. We had great fun on both visits. I stayed in the Hacienda, which is a brilliantly spacious fully self contained villa, a home from home. The surrounding area is really lovely and peaceful but its only a short drive into the gorgeous city of Granada and there are various picturesque villages where you can buy provisions or visit some great local bars. The airport is an easy drive too. I will definitely be going back this year ....I have no hesitation in recommending this place to anyone.

Antonia McGathan - travelled with friends - stayed June 2009 and 2010

"ATTRACTIVE ACCOMODATION IN A LOVELY SETTING"

Attractive accommodation in a lovely setting, whilst being only a short car drive to the nearest town, Iznajar, which is well worth visiting. Apartment was comfortable, airy and clean, with everything we needed.Well maintained garden, BBQ area and swimming pool. The welcome pack of food was plenty for the first 24 hours. Our hosts were friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable about local attractions. We would certainly revisit.

Wendy Moore - stayed May 2010

"EASTER APRIL 2010"

The villa accommodation and location was dfelightful and really lovely. Very peaceful there, with super swimming pool and sun terrace. Amanda and her husband Jess, made us very welcome. There is good access to main tourist sites and many pretty villages nearby. The villa was very clean and comfortable. The area is excellent for walking. A car is essential for touring. There are some good bars/restaurants nearby. Amanda is very knowledgable and speaks excellent Spanish. We went as a family of 4 adults, but it is equally good for young children and Malaga with beaches etc not more than 50 minutes drive. In conclusion we really enjoyed a very friendly, relaxing stay.

Family anderson - Stayed April 2010

"FAMILY ATMOSPHERE"

very restful with great accomodation and a peaceful location. A well kept pool area, pool about 10x5 mtrs and deep enough so you cannot stand in the deep end, all immaculately kept. A vehicle is needed due to the location of the property but the area has lovely villages nearby and easy access to larger towns such as Granada (approx 1 hr.) Cordoba (approx 1 1/4hr) Seville and Malaga/Alicanti. A great place to be "off the tourist/resort trail"

Tim from Brockdish - stayed September 2009

"THE REAL SPAIN"

I love staying at Cortijo Las Olivas. Mandy and Jess are very welcoming and will do all they can to ensure their guests have an enjoyable and relaxing holiday. Mandy speaks Spanish fluently and will always help if translations are required. A car is a must to explore the surrounding villages and towns and for day trips to see the sites in the historic cities of Granada, Cordoba and Seville. The Cortijo has a large swimming pool, ideal to return to from a sightseeing trip to relax around the pool until the sun goes down. We have enjoyed tasty tapas and good value meals in nearby bars and restaurants. We have also used the large barbecue in the relaxing central courtyard area when we didn't fancy going out for a meal. We have stayed in all three cottages which are clean and comfortable, equipped with everything required for a self-catering break. The provision of a hairdryer in each cottage is a nice touch, usually only found in hotels. In summary, we always have an enjoyable holiday in the real Spain, a million miles from the Costas, and return home refreshed and relaxed.

Sally D - Stayed May 2009

"BEAUTIFUL SETTING, THE PERFECT BREAK"

A warm welcome to an absolutely beautiful place to stay with a real homely feeling. I find it very hard to relax but I did here and what a setting, lazing by the pool, surrounded by mountains and olive groves, perfect. Fantastic advice and local knowledge from the owners meant we could explore the sites and sample the regional food and culture and the location is perfect to have an adventure around! I could have stayed forever! I have and would recommend this to anyone staying in this area, a fantastic break :-)

Helen Barnard - Travelled with friends - Stayed September 2008

My family and friends stayed here a few years ago, we all hired the whole place which gave us a truly relaxing holiday, a beautiful part of Spain, very welcoming hosts who are knowledgeable about local area.
Good spot for total relaxation, or as a base for exploring further afield. The swimming pool is just perfect for returning to after a hot day's sightseeing.
Good restaurants locally, or the facilities provided make it easy to eat in and relax for the evening.
Great whether you are a couple, singles, or a family. Well recommended.
Definitely intend to return hopefully later this year

I stayed in la hacienda last April with family and friends, and I have to say it was a most enjoyable, memorable holiday. Good facilities, well equipped with a fantastic courtyard for socialising, barbeques, pool table and games. Although it was only April, I did get in the pool, which is lovely on a hot day.
The surrounding area is simply stunning, close to Granada and Al Hambra, as well as the Sierra Nevada, while being conveniently close to the sea and beaches. What more could you want! I would thoroughly recommend Cortijo las Olivas to anyone looking for a bit of real Spain.

Helen J Jun 14th, 2013 @ 02:24 PM

Jan M May 22nd, 2012 @ 09:10 PM

LA HACIENDA

LA FINCA

LA CASITA