Memories are made of .....

It looks to me as though I can look forward to many years of happy, well fed retirement - would that it arrive soon.  Cans of meaty Covidog food are unlikely to be in short supply.  I know this because we have received a stream of well meant compliments about the holiday experience here at Cortijo Opazo, all of which bode well for our continued success. I don't wish to blow our collective trumpet in an inappropriate manner, but if you have time, you might appreciate  a persusal of the comments that some of our recent guests have made:

We've had a lovely week here: walking and enjoying the views, peace and tranquility of both the local area and of the cortijo.  Of the walks, we recommend seeking out those that follow old mule tracks or paths rather than the forest pistas (tracks) which are much less characterful - the walk down the hill from Cortijo Opazo and around the valley opposite follows some of the wonderful mule trails which are redolent of the history of the area.  We discovered that any water at this time of year is going to be far too cold for immersion (though we did meet a stark naked Spaniard on the hill above the big waterfall who claimed that a dip was just the thing!) The villages are endlessly fascinating, but it's great also to have the contrast of seeing some of the higher countryside, where you can really get the feeling of being far from civilisation.  The mountains are BIG and steep, but there are some delightful acequias which follow gentle gradients: our favourite was Acequia Sierra, west of La Cebadilla above Capileira.

Thanks to Robert and William for all the care that has gone into making this a beautiful and easy place to stay - we will certainly recommend you to friends and family.  The four course meal was very special!  Many thanks.
                Rose and Steve, October 2009

An encounter with a naked Spaniard is not something we can guarantee here at Cortijo Opazo, but if it might add to your holiday experience, I guess we can look into it.  Our next guests made no report of such matters, but none the less had a stimulating time here:

We have had a wonderful week here at the cortijo.  The Alpujarras are beautiful with plenty of walking opportunities, combined with the garden here where lots of relaxation and reading happened.  Robert and William are great hosts and fantastic cooks.  Only regret is that we left it to the last evening to sample their cooking so no chance to have a second meal!  Many thanks for a great stay and being so considerate.


Dave and Gaby, El Lújar October 2009.

Thank you Dave and Gaby, I'm pleased that Robert's spicey Morrocan vegetables with cous cous did the trick for you.  The next comment is from a couple who have become very at home here, and, in my opinion, a little too free with with the local dogs.  If anyone deserves any morsels from the table, it is primarily ME!

  

The problems encountered at 5.00am at East Midlands airport when, on this occasion, Roger wanted to bring his road bike here, soon disappeared when we finally reached Cortijo Opazo, to be warmly greeted once again by Fergus, Ella and, of course, William and Robert.  A quick stop at Paco's beforehand would mark the beginning of what was to be another wonderful week.

This has been our 3rd stay within the last 12 months, and with another week booked here for next Spring,... what more can be said.

As previously, we ordered one of Robert and William's meals to be ready on the evening of our arrival. What a scrummy meal it was too! As a result we enjoyed a different meal each evening. Did we have a favourite? - No!! They were all delicious! We saved out gourmet meal for the penultimate evening. What a wonderful meal it was too! And so beautifully presented. With the warm evening in late October we were able to enjoy the meal on the terrace with the moon and Jupiter perfectly positioned above.

We admit to spoiling the shepherd's dogs. They need spoiling! Tula and her "gang" are lovely..... We hope they stay safe until we return!! We walked and Roger cycled. He loves the roads. The weather has been wonderful all week with the autumnal colours dominating the landscape.

Dear Robert and William - thank you so much for making us welcome once again! For providing us with excellent food and accommodation and a setting "to die for"!! Roll on next Spring....

Barbara and Roger, October 2009

Thank you Roger and Barbara, I'll see to it personaly that the shepherd's dogs get the food you left behind for them.  Honest I will!  

It has to be said, October has been a good deal warmer than one might expect and the trees don't know whether to shed their leaves or sprout new ones.  In the same vein, Ella and I don't know whether to shed our thin summer coat of fur and bring forth our winter coat, or resort to the to a turn with the garden strimmer.  Despite being the end of October the stove in the main part of the house has not been lit, so I remain nostaligic for winters past and hopeful for the snow that is yet to fall.


Yours, in mid molt,


Fergus.