El Juncal, Ronda, Spain

A rare find indeed: a converted old Spanish finca with modern interior that takes you completely by surprise. The general feel is one of absolute tranquility: both inside, with its cool parquet flooring and modern decor, and outside either on the lounges on the lawns around the swimming pool, or out and about in the landscaped gardens. El Juncal is the perfect place to relax and unwind, breathing the clear mountain air in a peaceful environment and surrounded by inspiring views.

As well as the gently-sloping swimming pool the hotel's services and facilities include a Jacuzzi and sauna room with the possibility of booking massages made by an expert on it, a restaurant serving modern Spanish cuisine and fine Spanish wines, room service 24 hours open, extensive and well-tended gardens, satellite television, free internet connection in every room and suggestions for many visits and activities in the local area, like daily tours, hiking, mountain bike, riding horses, kayak-canoe, archery.

The 11 rooms and suites are distributed over two floors, some have private patios or terraces and all have large en-suite bathrooms with marble flooring. Beds are very comfortably-sized and the original decor of each room and suite has its own personal touch. The Special Suites are built next to the swimming pool and the jacuzzi and sauna room; they have fire place and the best views of the surroundings; they have room enough for four people.