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Spectacular on every level, this extraordinary hacienda is a striking example of what luxury means today.

Elegance and sophistication define this sensational country estate in Andalucia. The breathtakingly elegant 15-bedroom hacienda, styled in historic grandeur, features magnificent architecture and exquisite custom finishes throughout.

The exceptional trophy property was originally built in 1761 as an olive growing estate. It has been masterfully and exquisitely converted into a private residence, retaining many of the original features such as terracotta floors, wrought iron elements, semicircular artisan brick arches, wooden floors and Arab tiles on all roofs.

Steeped in history and sumptuous luxury, the Spanish stately home boasts a chapel, equestrian facilities including stables with 14 boxes, and historical elements from the old mill such as the original olive press which now is used as a prominent decorative feature. Read more »

Parents with very energetic children in or around the area of San Pedro will soon breathe a sigh of relief when they read this article. A new play centre has opened up in the Guadalmina Commercial Centre in the area and boasts many great facilities. Among these are: lots of slides, a massive fun ball pool, exciting tunnels and mazes, a great Zip Wire, air powered guns and there is even a dedicated toddler area for the really small ones. In addition to this, there is an outside play area with comfortable sofas where tired, hassled parents can relax while their children run about and enjoy themselves.

The Galaxia Play Centre has even thought about the security aspect and has installed cameras on all the play areas to give parents peace of mind and to know that their children are completely safe.

This play centre really seems like it has everything! Read more »

The Town Hall of Benalmádena has announced that Europe’s biggest butterfly park will open early next year in the town. The Mayor of Benalmádena, Enrique Moya, says the Asian-inspired complex, which is a 1,500 square metre site, will house “some of the world’s most spectacular and endangered species of butterfly”.

The local administration has said that it believes that the butterfly park will become a major tourist attraction, as well as a possible research facility in the future.

The complex is situated next to the town’s famous Buddhist temple, known as “La Estupa”, which is located on the outskirts of Benalmádena. Read more »

Calling all lovers of fine cuisine.

El Lago restaurant in Marbella are offering a select few the opportunity to join the chef and help prepare the haute-cuisine dishes that have earned this restaurant their Michelin star.

The price is all inclusive (dinner, cooking presentation, accomodation and breakfast) and is a mere 135 euros per person for a suite or 120 euros for a studio.

So, what’s on the menu? Well, these Masterchefs-in-the-making will get the opportunity to cook up some of the gastronomic delights that make up the “Tenth Anniversary Tasting Menu” following direction from top chef Diego del Río. There will also be an opportunity over the weekend to do some wine tasting with Paco García, director and sommelier.

For more information regarding this very special offer, check out the website: www.restauranteellago.com

“Sex sells” A truer word regarding marketing and advertising has never been spoken, so when I heard about this titillating gastronomical event I just had to write about it.

Around 60 establishments have signed up to participate in the second annual “Erotic Tapas Route” which is being held in Fuengirola town from 1^st to 21^st November. Bars and restaurants will be offering erotically designed tapas for €1,50 each. This campaign is purported as being a way to promote bars and restaurants in what is typically a slow month. And you can certainly guess why….!

Those inquisitive souls who wish to participate should collect a “tapas passport” from the Town Hall (ayuntamiento) Tourist office, or any of the included establishments. A stamp is issued after eating an erotic tapa in each venue and a prize draw will take place for those who have accumulated more than 10 stamps. (Considering there are 60 bars and restaurants participating, that shouldn’t be too hard!) Read more »