Hotel Molino del Santo

This dreamy hotel in Benaojan, 14km from Ronda, is surrounded by the gorgeous hills of the Serrania de Ronda.

Converted from an old flour and olive mill by its British owners, Andy Chapell and Pauline Elkin, its 18 bedrooms and suites are all very different but all inviting, distributed in or around the mill and looking onto the garden terrace with its solar-heated pool.

Many have terraces or balconies, and some are within earshot of the gurgling river that runs past the property. The exceptional restaurant, a favourite among the locals, features seasonal dishes, top Andalusian wines and gourmet barbecues; sitting out by candlelight on the terrace on a summer’s starry night is bliss.

It’s ideal for couples or families who want to hike or bike in the sierra, tour the Sierra de Grazalema and the White Villages, or just seek a delicious rural interlude.