Diva Espana – an idyllic retreat for women in the south of Spain

We spend a half day exploring Malaga - the town that is, not the horendous stretch of built up coastline that is the UK abroad. Malaga is definately worth a visit – if you are driving, park at the airport and catch a train into town. It is an hour’s drive to Diva Espana from the airport.

The road is not for the faint hearted, but Diva Espana hosts Kathy and Linda gave us the best instructions, and offered to meet us to show us the final stretch of track to Diva Espana, as we have not printed out those details.

I will never complain about the drive to my house again – this track is definately challenging, but worth the effort. We arrive at a perfect slice of paradise, set high in the mountains of Andalucia. A beautiful swimming pool beckons, with a jacuzzi beside it, surrounded by sun loungers and chairs to watch the sunset or sunrise.

The buildings have classic white washed walls and the rooms beautifully renovated and comfortable. There is an honesty bar by the pool with drinks, and icecreams. And then there are the hosts – Kathy and Linda are from the UK and have developed this property as a retreat for women.

Unlike many other UK people here in Spain, they have become a part of this community. They are learning Spanish, have officially registered as a guest house and are keen members of the local community.

Kathy is a fantastic cook – breakfast is included, a light lunch and two course dinner is available on site. Linda is the handy person and driver – they make a great team, and their welcome is warm and generous and the food amazing.

Unfortunately we are only here for 3 nights – it is clear that we should be staying longer. The other guests are here for a week, most are return visitors and have not brought cars – they intend to make the most of this retreat space. Some have come on their own – its a great place to stay for a woman on her own – you can have your own holiday, but have company as well through the day.

We take off for the day to visit Granada and the Alhambra which is about a 2 hour drive.

Photos of Granada

The next day we decide to stay around – we walk to the nearby village of Comares - about 1.5 hours walk there, and 1 hour back. Its a beautiful village – we have a delicious menu of the day at El Molina de Los Abuelos where gay hosts Ivan and Nenno offer a warm welcome. (Linda offers a taxi service to the village for those who don’t want to walk)

There are a lot of walks around the area for those who are keen walkers, but it is also a place where you can be seduced to do nothing at all – to just relax and wind and unwind.

Diva Espana is the perfect place for time out, or to stay in a longer travel plan – but don’t stay less than 3 nights!

Photos from Diva Espana

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