The region is full of charming rural retreats, writes Jon Clarke

THERE are some amazing places to stay in the Guadalhorce Valley, where peace and mountain landscapes merge.

One of the best established is Finca la Mota, in Alhaurin el Grande, that was once one of the biggest estates in the entire valley.

The 350-year-old farmhouse sits in its own secret valley, surrounded by stunning countryside and with views to match. Run by Dutchman Kees and his two sons Reuben and Danny, you enter into a classic patio Andaluz with a huge pool and its own terrace restaurant.

Inside it is charming with comfortable rooms and a separate dining area.

A lovely shady pool and views to match make up the scene. Best of all, it has a highly rated restaurant, perfect for shady dining by day and charming atmospheric dinners at night. Fancy staying in a castle?

Well now you have a chance following the amazing renovation of the soaring Castillo de Monda.

Not just lording over the village of Monda, but the entire valley, with mountain views in all directions, it is little surprise that it has been nearly fully booked since opening in the Spring.

Taken over by three talented Dutchmen, the place not only counts on spacious bedrooms, replete with four poster beds, jacuzzi baths and private terraces, but it also has a spa.

Best of all, one of the trio, Jaap Schaafsma, who is in charge of the kitchen, has worked among Holland’s best restaurants, a few of them with Michelin star status.

Looking for somewhere up in the true hills, away from the maddening crowd, then few places beat Cortijo la Pura.

In the hills above Alozaina and Casarabonela, this beautiful place, over 200 years old in age, sits in total silence, and counts on wonderful grounds and views.

Run by a worldly well travelled Dutch couple, it has four well appointed rooms, each with minibars, air conditioning and terraces.

Plus, three nights a week your hosts cook an evening meal for guests.

And finally close to Coin, look out for Finca La Luna Azul, which has recently been taken over by a couple of friendly Germans, from Hamburg, who love their horse riding and Harleys, the perfect mix.

It’s a splendid good value B&B with guests having a chance to ride horses, go on nearby hikes, or simply hang out by the fabulous pool.