Andalusia…? Saddle do nicely

FOR decades Brits heading towards the Spanish sun have hurried right through Malaga in a rush to start their holidays.

My trip was no different — but instead of making for the beaches I was travelling north to the mountains that form the backdrop to the Costas. They are far more interesting and chilled out.

And at Cortijo La Presa, a mountain resort 2,500ft above sea level, I found a spot close to heaven.

It looks more like a monastery than a holiday home but is the ideal place for a sunshine break.

The former farmhouse has been converted into seven ensuite apartments arranged around a sun-trap of a courtyard with a pool and kids’ play area.

It is super-cosy and there are even log fires if the chill of the mountains starts to make itself known.

Set amid stunning scenery, it is aimed at individuals or groups of hikers, cyclists and yoga enthusiasts, with opportunity for lounging between activities.

It is also a working olive farm with a couple of friendly dogs. And a goat, Divina, who you can take for a walk.

On the first day, our group tried mountain biking and found that the scope for off-road pedalling is infinite.

As there are no trespass laws in Spain you can go anywhere. The owners have a fleet of new Orbea bikes and built cycling trails on their 40 acres that loop off into the glories of the Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park beyond.

After a bit of tuition, bike guru Jonathan Smith, one of the co-owners, led us through the olive groves.

Mostly we ambled along the flat trails at family friendly speeds accompanied by birdsong and smell of wild rosemary.

Afterwards we had a relaxing half-hour of yoga with teacher Claire Barron.