This looks like a scene from Sub-Saharan Africa. A dozen stilted tents and platformed pods are spectacularly sited among lush, scrubby wilderness where lynx roam and eagles circle. A lake sparkles in the sunlight and then shimmers beneath star-studded skies. No one would believe this is southern Spain – the land of buzzy costas and lively Moorish cities. Out here in the wild and mountainous interior is a serene stillness and a beauty that’s raw and rugged. It might just be Andalucia’s best-kept secret.
La Dehesa sits on a private reserve of holm oak forests, pine woods and olive groves. The six tented suites - magnificent structures made from chestnut and pine (not your average poles and pegs construction!) - and six glass tubbos - an almost 100% glass design offering unbelievable stargazing - are widely scattered so they feel uber private. Each is palatial, with huge windows for taking in the scenery, proper beds, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms with hot water. Out on the deck: expansive views and your very own plunge pool. A catering service offers breakfast trays and other meals, all brought to you at a time of your choosing. Dine on your deck and spot birds and resident livestock rambling past. Then when you’re done marvelling at nature, explore it; hiking, kayaking, horse riding, nature trails are all at your fingertips. Days end with stargazing – guided by an expert astronomer if you wish. Simply magical.
Highs
- You are here to switch off, and switch off you will! The tranquillity is intoxicating, and yet you’re only 40 minutes from Cordoba
- The stilted tents and tubbos are extremely spoiling, each with air-con, private plunge pools, and fridges stacked with local produce and wine. Some tents have second bedrooms, making them ideal for families
- This is a nature lover’s paradise – look out for endangered Iberian lynx, imperial eagle, eagle owl and deer
- Astronomers will love it here too; the dark skies of the reserve have made it a starlight tourism destination
- Delicious homecooked food can be delivered to your tent for every meal - just ask staff at reception or drop them a Whatsapp message
Lows
- Tents lack curtains or blinds so you'll likely wake at daylight, but you can use one of the sleeping masks provided; tubbos have exterior awnings for shade
- There are no communal areas, and no bars or restaurants in the vicinity, so you’ll likely be in your tent (or stargazing on your terrace) in the evenings
- If coming in late summer or early autumn, be prepared for the surroundings to look dry and dusty
- Pools are chilly - but refreshing in the stifling summer heat
Best time to go
Southern Spain is lovely at any time of year, though bear in mind that in the summer months it will be very hot. Come in early spring (Feb-Mar) for blossoming almond trees; a little later for wild flowers. Autumn (Sep-Oct) is deer rutting season. Winter brings ideal conditions for walking - generally you get clear skies, but be prepared for the odd bout of rain and temps below zero at night. La Dehesa usually closes for most of December.
Our top tips
Essential packing items include a pair of lightweight hiking shoes, some mozzie repellent, a good pair of binoculars, and perhaps a pack of cards or some games for the evenings (especially if bringing kids). An astronomy reference guide or night-sky app would also come in handy!
Our guests' ratings...
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