was made with thermal insulating materials such as termacillo, a type of clay block with insulated air chambers. The floors were made with hand-made clay tiles that are waxed using beeswax, rather than using chemicals.
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‘Rural and charming, Los Castaños is the perfect getaway for those looking to relax and unwind. It is ideally located to explore the beautiful cobbled streets of Ronda, a city rich in dramatic history’
Overview
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Highlights
- Rooftop terrace with mountain views
- Award-winning Mediterranean food
- Innovative vegan & vegetarian options
- Situated between 2 national parks
- Mini gym with infrared sauna
- The authentic Spanish experience
- Plenty of great hiking routes
- Supports the Andalucia Bird Society
- 6 guest rooms with en-suites
- Children 12+ welcome here
- Check-in: Between 2-7pm
Minimum stay: 1 night
Equivalent price per night: From approx. $127 USD -
Local Knowledge
Cartajima is a small, ‘undiscovered’ village surrounded by mesmerizing mountain and valley views. Walking paths in this area connect to the 6 other undiscovered white villages nearby that are peaceful and stunning. The romantic Andalusian city of Ronda is only a 20-minute drive and is famous for its dramatic views. And there are 2 nearby national parks, Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra de Las Nieves.
There is plenty to see in Cartijima, including:
- Baños Arabes – 23 min drive (17km)
- El Tajo de Ronda – 22 min drive (17km)
- Murallas de Levante – 21 min drive (17km)
- Cueva del Gato – 32 min (30km)
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Location
The hotel is located in the quaint village of Cartajima, up in the mountains of the Andalucia region of southern Spain. It is open year-round because this part of the country enjoys particularly good weather and can be explored at any time of the year, with winter being the best time for hiking.
- Distance from airport: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, 1h 2 min drive (106km)
- Distance from key attraction: Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves, 12 min drive (9km)
- Nearby restaurant: El Horno Frasquita, 2 min walk (130m)
Gallery
Kiwano Seal
1-leaf status
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ArchitectureThe original three buildings where the hotel is located were beyond repair and so they were cleared for construction, which was undertaken by local builders using local materials. The building...
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WaterThe water for the hotel is sourced straight from the mountain and is regularly analysed to ensure that it is free of pollutants. Guests are not given plastic water bottles in their rooms, instead...Read More >>
they are provided with a large glass bottle that can be refilled. Most of the bathtubs in the hotel have been switched for showers to save water and purolator air filters have been fitted in the taps which reduces water flow. Most of the plants at Los Castaños are drought resistant so can survive on less water than typical plants.
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EnergyMost of the water at Los Castaños is heated by clean solar energy, but a gas boiler is used when there is no sun. The hotel uses LED lightbulbs wherever possible...Read More >>
All of the rooms have individual heat pumps which combine heating and cooling systems to significantly reduce electricity usage.
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Engage GuestsGuests are provided with detailed routes to encourage hiking in the valley, to learn the local history and enjoy wildlife spotting. As well as this, guests can choose...Read More >>
to go on excursions with local guides to appreciate the local wildlife, birds and plants.
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WasteLos Castaños avoids using disposable items, they have considerably reduced plastic usage over the last year. There is a strict recycling policy in place here...Read More >>
Food is purchased in small quantities so that there is less waste, but any excess organic waste is composted on nearby land. They even have a worm bin!
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FoodFood is sourced locally, within a 20km radius maximum. Staff use reusable net bags instead of plastic bags to carry food, which is something locals have noticed...Read More >>
and asked for too
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ConservationThe hotel is an affiliated member of the Andalucia Bird Society which aims to educate locals in what the value of sustaining wildlife is. Staff at the hotel also proactively monitor...Read More >>
migration patterns to report back to the society for research.
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HousekeepingCleaning products are used with natural products, such as vinegar. Toiletries are kept in large bottles rather than using small disposable ones.Read More >>
Guests are encouraged to not have their towels and bed linen changed too often to reduce water and energy usage. Laundry is line-dried usually. The linen is sent to be laundered at a residence in Ronda which provides work for disabled people. For in-house laundry, staff use Ecover, an ecologically sound cleaning detergent.
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Kiwano BonusThe hotel works to set an example for the rest of the village and has recently been instrumental in the banning of irresponsible garbage disposal down the mountain.
Reviews
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"Better than any of the 5* places we have stayed"Stunning location, wonderful hosts, amazing food, beautiful room with one of the best views you could wish for. Better than any of the 5* places we have stayed. Don’t think twice about it, just book it!
Amy, Google Reviews
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"No detail is overlooked"
A little gem is hidden away in a stunning location. Di & John are great hosts, very warm and welcoming. The hotel is very comfortable and the rooms are beautifully decorated, no detail is overlooked. The food is fantastic, lovingly created by Di. A wonderful tranquil place in a charming little village surrounded by stunning scenery.
Rob, Facebook
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"Still an unspoiled oasis"
Return visit after 5 years. Still an unspoiled oasis. Di and John are perfect hosts. Excellent evening meal and breakfast. Very comfortable rooms, sorry to leave.
John, Google Reviews
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" Highly recommended"
Beautiful hotel in a peaceful setting. Di and John are excellent hosts.
Emily, Facebook
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"Wow, what an amazing experience"
My partner and I were looking for a true Spanish village experience, and this ticked every box. Di and John our hosts were so welcoming and laid back, they really made us feel like we belonged. The serenity and outlook were beyond our expectation, with our room looking out to one of the better views I've seen also receiving wine on arrival which was refreshing.
Josh, Google Reviews
Video
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