Basking in the Spanish sun: the best holiday villas in Andalucia to rewind and reset

This southern gem of Spain has it all: diverse landscapes, rich culture, and endless opportunities to relax. From the Mediterranean coast to the peaks of the Sierra Nevada, not to mention the iconic cities of Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, it’s a region that ticks all the boxes. Just picture yourself unwinding in a luxury country home with a pool, lush gardens, and sweeping views of the sea or mountains. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or in a multi-family housing setup, Andalusia offers a wide range of villa rentals—from rustic traditional casas to sleek modern units, all fully equipped for a laid-back holiday.

Whether you’re lounging on the terrace with nature as your backdrop or heading out to explore centuries of history and culture, every corner of Andalusia promises unforgettable experiences. The Costa del Sol, with its lively resorts like Marbella and Nerja, boasts glorious beaches, while charming villages like Frigiliana and Mijas offer a more peaceful, picturesque vibe. And with every villa rental, you’ll soak up the warm, sunny spirit that makes this region so irresistible. Choose from exclusive country properties, handpicked private villas, or discover unique villas for rent—all located in prime spots, some even within walking distance of local gems. Time to rent a luxury villa and live the good life, Andalusian-style.

Set in the middle of nature just steps from Arcos de la Frontera, La Casa de Arcos is a truly amazing property accommodating up to nine guests. The home is made up of five separate buildings arranged around a green patio, flooded with natural light. There are three triple bedrooms—each with a double bed, a daybed, and its own bathroom—as well as a spacious living area with a kitchen and fireplace. The setup also includes a private cinema, a panoramic viewpoint, and even a games collection.

Outside, a large heated pool surrounded by lemon trees invites lazy afternoons. Come spring, the scent of blossoms fills the air; in winter, it’s harvest time. The sunny terrace offers both privacy and calm—ideal for a slow holiday travel rhythm in Andalusia.

Bathed in light from sunrise to sunset, Casa Habiba is one of those luxury villas where time slows down. Hosting up to 12 guests between the main house and nearby guest unit, it’s ideal for a family holiday or a relaxed community escape. In the garden, a large pool promises long swims, a rain shower extends sunny moments, and a summer kitchen sets the scene for dinners under the stars. The location? Perfect for yoga, meditation—or just kicking back in peace and privacy. A full range of personal services is on offer too: custom welcomes, in-house massages, and daily housekeeping to ensure ease and comfort.

Owner Simone began renovating in 2021 with a clear plan: to blend natural materials and calm elegance in a way that soothes the mind. The result? An exceptional holiday home that invites you to fully unwind.

Here, days follow nature’s rhythm. Mornings start with yoga on the terrace, a walk through the hills, and maybe a fig or two. Afternoons mean pool dips, open-air cooking, and sunset barbecues overlooking the Axarquía hills—pure Andalusia magic.

For the curious, the surrounding region has plenty of activities: hikes through Montes de Málaga Natural Park, UNESCO sites like El Torcal, and nearby Málaga for museums, beaches, and vibrant square life. Torrox and Colmenar are a short drive away, and if you’re up for a round of golf or a day trip to Marbella, you’re perfectly placed. Looking to rent your slice of Andalusian calm? Casa Habiba is a nice, grounded destination you’ll want to return to again and again.

Before moving in, they got to work. The couple led a thoughtful renovation that respected the home’s soul—restoring vintage tiles, carved doors, and wooden beams—while adding modern essentials like dual ovens, ceiling fans, and a fireplace for cozy evenings. It’s a perfect mix of rustic charm and smart convenience.

Nature lovers will want to walk the epic El Saltillo trail, crossing a 54-meter suspension bridge—an activity that’s not for the faint of heart but absolutely worth it. Prefer water? Lake Viñuela is just 30 minutes away, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, or lakeside lounging. And the sea is calling too: Torre del Mar is half an hour away, ideal for a beach day or sunset stroll.

This is one of those Andalusia travel experiences you’ll want to repeat. Can’t fit it all in this time? You’re not the only one—most people who stay here have left with a super clear sign on their map: come back soon.

This countryside retreat is also a fantastic home base for exploring the region. Just five minutes away lies Canillas de Aceituno, a quiet whitewashed village perfect for a lazy afternoon. Hiking enthusiasts can head for the El Saltillo trail, while adventure lovers might grab a mountain bike or binoculars to go birdwatching.

For a beach day, the Costa del Sol is just twenty minutes away. Think coves, fresh seafood markets, paddleboarding, and sunbathing galore. In the mood for a cultural trip? Head to Frigiliana or Nerja—both rich in history and Andalusian charm. “In summer, each village celebrates its feria. It’s a real festival of color, perfect for soaking up the local spirit and traditions,” say the owners.