Sometimes, you find somewhere to stay, that is just so exceptionally beautiful, you spend your whole stay, drinking in the interiors, the exterior, the accessories and accessorisation, and just well, the whole thing. On our roadtrip across Spain, we’ve been so lucky to stay in some pretty special places, but one which really stands out in the memory, is a renovated townhouse in Archidona, in Andalucia.
Archidona is a pretty pueblo blanco, with its centre crammed with typical Andalucian houses – white exterior, huge front doors, shuttered windows and small balconies. Hostal Aljibe is, from the outside, one such typical townhouse. However, once you enter the front doors, you know this place is something very, very special. Bought by the Belgian owners a few years ago, it was a complete wreck. We love a renovation project, but I don’t know how their nerves coped with this one! We saw photos of the before and during, and we wouldn’t even have considered this as a project, as it looked so beyond saving. Thankfully, Frank and Sabrina didn’t think the same way, and although, as they told us, the renovation process was pretty horrendous and arduous and fraught with never ending delays and bureaucracy, they persevered and now have a boutique townhouse hotel which is out of this world.
I could wax lyrical about this gorgeous townhouse for a long time, but I think the photographs we took will do it a whole lot more justice…
Our room was a suite on the first floor, with a large seating/living room area, with a small sofa, desk and chair and fridge and the most beautiful tiled floor. This space opened up into the bedroom – a very large room, with floor to ceiling shuttered windows looking down into the street below – and a well designed walk in shower and separate toilet. (The toilet in our room didn’t have a door, but because of its position – tucked away in a corner – this wasn’t an issue for us). The suite had a feeling of real spaciousness, because of the windows and the height of the ceilings, as well as the calming, neutral tones and textures used throughout. The attention to detail in terms of decor, styling and accessorising is off the scale. Everything has been thoughtfully and carefully considered, curated and positioned. No details are left to chance and absolutely no corners are cut.
The ground floor is separated into a reception area, a small lounge and a large open plan kitchen area (where breakfasts are prepared) and a communal dining area, which leads out onto the most exquisite terrace and up to the wow factor pool area.
I particularly liked all of the light and lampshades, throughout the small hotel. All unique and individual macrame shades. And I liked then even more when the owner told me she just could not source what she was envisioning for her hotel – and so via online tutorials, learned how to make these herself! They are really amazing feats of creativity – and absolute labours of love, as the large ones can takes up to three weeks to make! The effect of them, in the spaces where the are housed, is simply beautiful…
This hotel is flawless. From the thick sage green pool towels, rolled up and tied with ribbon in wicker baskets, for guests to use, to the simple but stylish cutlery at breakfast. Which is exactly as you’d imagine – faultless. Deliciously home made and in abundance, served to a background of Spanish classical music. Special mention given to the bed and the linen – utterly exquisite. And even more so, when we asked about it and were told it was from Zara Home. Guess what our visitors are going to sleeping on…
After we left, we obviously left a review for Hostal Aljibe. We do this for all places we stay at as we think a review provides information for other people who may be interested in the property, and also a bit of feedback for owners. Most people never bother to reply, and we never expect them to, as they are busy and we’ve provided the feedback. However, this reply from Frank and Sabrina really sums up them and their whole philosophy. A gem of a find in Archidona, which we will return to…
Dear Helen,
Where do we even begin to thank you for such an exquisite and detailed review of Hostal Aljibe? We are beyond thrilled to hear that you found our boutique hotel to be the most perfect place you’ve stayed in. It brings us immense joy to know that you appreciated the renovation and restoration efforts we put into every corner of our hotel. Your kind words about the natural tones, handcrafted chandeliers, and attention to detail mean the world to us.
We are delighted that you enjoyed our breakfast. We always strive to provide a memorable culinary experience for our guests, and it’s wonderful to hear that we succeeded. The courtyard and pool area are indeed some of our favorite spots, and we’re glad you found them as beautiful and tranquil as we do.
Frank and I are truly touched by your kind words. We strive to make every guest feel special and cared for, and it’s heartwarming to know that our efforts resonated with you. Your recognition of the peacefulness, tranquility, and calm we aim to create is deeply appreciated.
We are so happy that your visit to Archidona and your stay with us left such a positive impression. Knowing that you plan to return is the highest compliment we could receive. We look forward to welcoming you back for another perfect stay.
Warm regards,
Frank & Sabrina, Hostal Aljibe
