Escape | Hacienda San Rafael, Spain
One of the private patios of a casita surrounded by lush flowers and foliage.
I'd like to close my eyes, tap my heals and return back to Hacienda de San Rafael located about 45 minutes from the outskirts of Seville, Spain. It is a slice of paradise in southern Spain's Andalucia region. I traveled to Spain for the sixth issue of the Journal and months later I am still dreaming about its beauty. Ever since I was a young girl (I was flower obsessed back then too) I wanted to get lost in a field of sunflowers. I was beside myself, when we came upon the driveway to the Hacienda that was flanked with these yellow flowers that were as tall as me. It was a dream come true.
The Hacienda offers the perfect escape to enjoy the countryside. Every detail is paid attention, like the cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade upon arrival to the petals of flowers floating in bowls around the property. I always miss my dog when I am away from her, but luckily there was a very friendly Labrador Retriever named Zulu that paid us a visit when lounging on the patio. If you are traveling to Spain, I recommend that you take a siesta at this slice of paradise.
To learn more and to book your stay, read the 'Sweet Andalucia' story in the latest issue of the Journal.
Nothing but wheat fields as far as the eye can see.
A rustic room perfect for relaxing.
Sunrise over the wheat fields.
Breakfast is served al fresco on the patio, which included unbelievably tasty flaky croissants.
Zulu, the friendly hotel dog.
Lavender and rosemary sprigs plucked from just outside the casita.
The view from the top which resembled a field of sunshine in the form of sunflowers.
Puddles of bougainvillea fill a stone corridor.
A golden glow on the casita, or suite at Hacienda.
Photography by Alison | A very special thanks to Hacienda de San Rafael