The best hotels in Andalucia

So discreet it doesn’t even have a sign, this restored 17th-century mansion hidden down a tiny alley in Santa Cruz offers service worthy of a five-star establishment, plus nightly live guitar performances, a superbly stocked bar, and a large roof terrace with cathedral views. Read expert review

A beautifully blanched 200-year-old Andalucian finca framed by palms, pines and swirls of bougainvillea, much-loved El Cerrillo specialises in painting, walking and writing holidays. But everyone is welcome to soak up the stunning mountain setting and serenity at this highly original, laid-back hideaway. Read expert review

One of Córdoba’s most original and exceptional hotel hideaways: a 15th-century house reimagined with voguish design and boutique-ified Andalucian character. Snooze in one of just four creative rooms, enjoy outstanding breakfasts, and kick back by the roof-terrace plunge pool. Read expert review

This British-run farmhouse, perched in its own patch of olive grove in Córdoba’s untouristed Sierras Subbéticas, has been lovingly transformed into an outstanding, eco-conscious rural hideaway. Sweeping views, cosy rooms, lovely mountain walks and seriously good home-cooked meals await. Read expert review

With its secluded setting and exquisite cortijo (farmhouse) ambience, Casa La Siesta is amongst the crème-de-la-crème of boutique getaways. The luxurious, Andalucian country house features sumptuous rooms, superb home-cooking and a gorgeous garden. Romantics can watch the sun set from the lavender-filled courtyard. Read expert review

A dazzling luxury boutique jewel in Córdoba’s historic core, the Balcón de Córdoba is a stylish revamp of a 17th-century monastery, with calming flower-fringed patios, subtly sumptuous rooms and unbelievably beautiful rooftop-terrace views – all a stone’s throw from the Unesco-listed Mezquita. Read expert review

One of Andalucía’s (and Spain’s) most fabulous and sought-after hotels, Finca Cortesín is a serene retreat, filled with palm-studded patios and perfumed Mediterranean gardens. Suites are elegantly opulent; there’s a wonderful spa, plus four pools; and a Michelin star twinkles amid its outstanding dining options. Read expert review

This 81-room, adults-only hotel on the Golden Mile is a pleasure paradise for all senses, featuring voguish, Japanese-inspired interiors and a collection of upmarket restaurants. It indulges guests with exclusive services, including in-room cocktail preps and a private members’ lounge. Read expert review

A duo of revamped Andalucian townhouses transformed into a peaceful, sophisticated adults-only hideaway, within easy reach of Andalucía’s (many) outstanding attractions. Spot-on personal service, soothing interiors, a twinkling pool and a discreetly stunning boutique style lure guests back. Read expert review

First launched in 1979, the Puente Romano is one of Marbella’s original luxury properties. Its flawless service, sparkling beachfront position, Andalucian-village design and outstanding gastronomic line-up – Michelin stars included – keep it lively, current and immensely desirable. Read expert review

Vejer’s original boutique bolthole and one of Andalucía’s most fabulous hotels, the evocative Califa lures guests back with its seductive tucked-away rooms, distinctive Andalucía-meets-North-Africa style, outstanding Moroccan–Middle Eastern cuisine and fascinating history dating back to Moorish times. Read expert review

A minute’s walk from the Giralda, this converted mansion in Santa Cruz quarter mixes exposed brick and original floor tiles with chandeliers and glitzy gold headboards for a luxe-historic feel. Free afternoon tea buffet plus rooftop terrace with pool offering picture-perfect views of the cathedral are deal-clinchers. Read expert review

A 17th-century old town Marbella home – once the summer residence of Napoleon III’s wife, later an underground artists’ hangout – hosts this luxe, relaxed and divinely converted seven-room boutique retreat. Sleek rooms are perfectly private, the style is supremely sophisticated and service is superb. Read expert review

A 17th-century palacio in the heart of Seville’s old town has been reinvented as a deluxe boutique hotel by English brothers Anthony and Patrick Reid. It’s a classy affair with fine art on the walls amidst marble, Romanesque pillars, wooden beams and state-of-the-art lighting. Read expert review

Refined Andalusian motifs, sumptuous furnishings, formal gardens and Moroccan influences create a striking first impression at Andalucía Playa, a luxury hotel that stands on La Barrosa beach. The grown-up vibe and excellent dining will appeal to those looking for a stress-free, indulgent break. Read expert review

Rusticity reigns at this homely finca hotel, with just nine individually designed rooms, situated on the site of a biodynamic farm in the mountains of Andalucía. The spa is a delight, with panoramic views from the freshwater pool. Read expert review

This family-focused, beachfront hotel is marked by its lively atmosphere, plentiful buffet dining, excellent facilities and jam-packed activities programme. The idea here is that guests can completely switch off and relax. The award-winning Real Novo Sancti Petri Golf Club is also part of the complex. Read expert review

With just four sparkling, custom-designed rooms, warm, on-the-ball management, perfect home-cooked meals and plenty of small-hotel charm, all within the walls of a gorgeous old townhouse, this arty boutique jewel is one of Ronda’s most original sleeps. Read expert review

Going strong since 1987, this delightful British-owned rural retreat and long-time riverside walkers’ favourite is idyllically positioned just outside dramatic Ronda. Enjoy the relaxed ambience, rustic-modern rooms and outstanding restaurant, and head out on a multitude of wonderful walking trails. Read expert review

Cleverly designed white spaces with bold art, retro touches and contemporary furnishings give Hostal Alcoba a hip vibe. Housed in two buildings set around a courtyard, part of the hotel is the renovated former home of the owners. Sleek rooms and a lap pool add to the funky ambience. Read expert review