The whole setup flows so effortlessly that pessimists might presume this is a case of style over substance , but that couldn ’ t be further from the truth . Customdesigned and handmade in collaboration with Sybartum , a 35-year established family run business who work directly with furniture artisans who have a deep knowledge of wood and handcrafted wood furniture , the décor is not only exceptional in that it is unique , instantly putting guests in mind of a Balinese retreat , but it ’ s also ecologically sustainable and made from elements exclusively available only in nature . Every effort has been made to ensure comfort and usability , from the giant ceramic pots that nurture the banana trees to the mid-level jacuzzi , and the cosy daybeds that sit poolside allowing you to lay back and take in the incomparable views .
If you can tear yourself away from the villa , Mijas Pueblo is a charming , very pretty and quintessentially Andalucian mountain town with some great restaurants , quaint shops to browse , fascinating walking tours and a popular line in ( very well looked after ) donkey taxis . Those seeking adventure will relish the spectacular scenery and fresh air of the nearby Sierra de Mijas where you can hike through a natural balcony of olive groves and native flora to peaks overlooking the Malaga coastline . Alternatively , beach-lovers are also in luck and can head to Playa De Los Alemanes , an unspoilt stretch of golden sand that ’ s ideal for a sunset stroll , or the beach clubs and
crystal blue water of Playa De Los Peligros - both reachable within 15 minutes .
Although we did venture out to explore the local area , the pull of the villa was just too tempting for us and , thanks again to housekeeper , Pilar , and her faultless hospitality , we had every good reason to stay and make the most of our temporary hideaway . Fortunately for the youngest Humphris , we were visiting over her fourth birthday and Pilar asked if we could like ‘ a little tapas ’ to celebrate . The little tapas in question turned out to be the best tapas any of us have ever eaten : garlicky gambas pil pil with a smoky paprika kick ; classic , creamy ensalada Rusa ; soft tortilla with a crispy edge ; a tangy cocktail of plump prawns ; and buttery scallops served in their shells all followed appetisers made with anchovy , Parma ham , olives and sweet juicy tomatoes . Every dish was so fresh it sang with flavour ; words can ’ t really do it justice , so I advise you coincide a trip here with a celebration and devour Pilar ’ s unforgettable food .
Tearing ourselves away from the outdoor dining area ( that had been especially decorated for the occasion ), and the dreamy evening views across Mijas which blend seamlessly with the villa ’ s classy night-time light scheme , it was no hardship to retire to the tranquillity of our elegant bedrooms . A masterclass in rest and relaxation , the super-king
beds are dressed in silky soft bedding , which perfectly complements the Southeast-Asian-inspired furnishings handmade from a selection of natural wood in a soothing muted palette .
Lighting up the Mijas Hills on Spain ’ s southeastern coast , Villa Maya is a sophisticated sanctuary that shines like a priceless jewel above the beautiful , whitewashed village of Mijas Pueblo . No request is too much trouble , nothing to make your stay more pleasurable has been overlooked , and the weather here is warm and pleasant all year round with temperatures sitting at a balmy 18-22 ° C even during the off-peak season between November and March . So much more than a summer holiday , this Spanish escape is a haven of serenity that refreshes and revitalises in equal measure .
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