Villa Baena Spain

Blending Andalusian country charm with and stunning location, Villa Baena has all the makings of a quiet escape. In a charming elevated position surrounded by similar village houses and quintessential cobbled streets, it affords magnificent views over the mountains, winding country roads and tree lined fields below.
Andalusian in style and design, star attraction is the outside garden area, which feels like a private paradise oozing rusticity, with stone walls and hanging planters. Care and detail focus on the region with Moroccan influences, and facing the incredible vista is the suntrap swimming pool – here you can enjoy sun-filled days in a beautiful setting, take refreshing dips and simply let your cares slip away. Next to the pool, a wonderful covered tiled veranda makes way for the best alfresco seating spot you’ll never want to leave – it’s really like an extension of the house, and also provides refuge from the heat of the midday sun. Wonderfully furnished with a table, chairs and barbecue it truly provides the perfect spot for get-togethers over breakfast, lunch or supper, relaxing over drinks watching the sunsets.
Inside, the two-storey villa is light, airy and focuses on a mix of traditional rustic Andalusian charm and modern-day comforts with accents of colour and wood bringing homely brightness everywhere. At its heart is an inviting open-plan lounge-diner, which is set with a sofa/chairs facing the TV and open-hearth fireplace lulling you into spending cosy nights in watching a movie or catching up over the activities of the day. Framed pictures and farmhouse style furniture complete this room and the traditional ambience.  
The equally roomy well-fitted kitchen is fully equipped with everything from a coffee maker to a dishwasher, microwave and another open-hearth fireplace. Another bonus here is an additional table and chairs creating another sociable gathering space whilst meals are prepared.
Setting the seal on everything are the four bedrooms – 2 twins and 2 doubles affording plenty of space for eight. Split over both floors, each room stays cool thanks to tiled floors and tasteful soft furnishings. Two separate bathrooms, 1 with shower and 1 with a bath round things off nicely. Rooms upstairs have the extra bonus of looking out onto the sensational panoramas, whilst the downstairs gives practical functionality.
Air-conditioning in the villa also helps to keep you cool even during the high summer months.
Villa Baena is a real Andalusian holiday home in a charming village with spectacular mountain views Staying at the Villa Baena puts you in a perfect location for exploring the enchanting city of Cordoba – one of the most interesting in Andalusia and classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The villa itself is located in the village of Baena – a rural location in the south-eastern part of the region, 60 km south-east from the centre of Córdoba. Here in Baena, you’ll discover a few interesting churches, plus essentials including a supermarket, restaurant and café all within short walking distance. You’re also in a perfect spot for checking out the many walking and hiking paths that start super close from the villa.
Cordoba itself will delight, surprise and seduce you big time. The city is possibly best known for its Mezquita, the grandest and most beautiful mosque constructed by the Moors in Spain, and one of Europe’s largest. It’s really impossible to overemphasise the magnificence of Córdoba’s great mosque, so take some time to explore; this impressive work of Islamic architecture is distinguished by a maze of columns, beautifully decorated with Islamic influences that encapsulate both the splendour and the history of the mosque. Outside and away from the interior glory, you’ll encounter ancient walls, striking bell towers and the Renaissance cathedral area. Climb the bell tower (Torre Campanario) located within the minaret for incredible views of the city, and check out the lovely Patio de los Naranjos courtyard with its orange, palm and cypress trees and the courtyard’s fountains.  
In the exploring mood? the fascinating maze of narrow cobbled lanes and wonky alleyways with its whitewashed buildings leading to hidden squares full of local banter and extravagant flowered patios carrying remnants of Roman design in Cordoba are wonderful to get lost in. Wander the charming Jewish Quarter. Start at Casa Andalusí, – a house/museum full of Moroccan charm including the first paper factory imported to Spain by the Islamic empire, then walk across the Puente Romano for great views across the town.
Another top thing to do in Cordoba is the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs. The Alcázar was built by the Christians after they conquered Córdoba in 1328. The magnificent gardens draw the most energetic gasps of pleasure from visitors. Stroll through Plaza de los Capuchinos containing Christo de los Faroles, an interesting religious sculpture, then check-out Cuesta del Bailío. The old palace and church at the top of the steps is an excellent photo opportunity too!  Next, make your way over to Palacio de Viana and breathe in the scent of orange and jasmine blossom, keep an eye out for hints of Arabic roots such as the ornate mosaics and water features in the 12 beautiful courtyards
No Córdoba holiday would be complete without an alfresco lunch in an atmospheric square. Look out for the intimate traditional tapas bars. Grab a seat in a prime spot in the square just inside the Sevilla Gate, then hit the shops and even more historical sites.
There are endless ways to fill your days, whether you’re out to relax, soak up some of Spain’s richest history or simply live it up. Even for holidaymakers who are not too curious about history, the Roman and Arab inspired sites and attractions of this city will be hard ignore and you’ll find yourself mesmerised by the heritage
Situated in north-central Andalucía, Córdoba and Villa Baena is well-placed to take advantage of the diversity of the region. There are many half and full day trips out of the city too. Explore the capital of the Islamic Caliphate of the 10th century on a half-day excursion from Córdoba, and discover more of the beautiful patios of this southern Spanish gem. Malaga is another excellent day trip option at just under 2 hours’ drive or 1 hour on the train from Córdoba. Apart from the beaches of the Costa del Sol, there’s Roman ruins, Moorish citadels and a gleaming central shopping district. Another excellent and easy day trip from Córdoba is the classic whitewashed village of Antequera, a historical town dating back to the Bronze Age with an impressive Moorish Fortress, Gothic Churches and Roman burial grounds. Or, there’s Seville, 1 hour & 40 minutes’ drive from Córdoba or 45 minutes on the train, or Granada approx. 2 hours driving time from Córdoba – home to Alhambra, the most visited attraction in Spain!At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Please contact our Excellence Luxury Villas concierge team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning- Private chef/cook/catering- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge- Local day-trips or tours- Airport transfers- Babysitting/childcare services
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!