Reviews of Property: The Mill - a magical, secluded country house set in its own valley.
Description
Villa, 150 m²,
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8, 3 Bathrooms
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8, 3 Bathrooms
Facilities
mountain, rural,
pool,
jacuzzi,
garden,
terrace
Rates
per property
Set rates in Euros
Set rates in Euros
€675 -
€1,150/week
GBP Conversion - Estimated
£608 -
£1,036/week Robin Smith
+34 (0)958-068046
+34 (0)618-465675
+34 (0)618-465675
Speaks: English, French, German, Spanish
14 Reviews of Property 71303 in Juviles, Spain
Wilson Family Surrey + 2 granparents Portsmouth.
Review Submitted: November 1, 2009
Date of Stay: October 2009
I'd pre-read and re-read all the reviews on this page over and over again thinking “it can't be that good, can it?”
So when we all arrived in our seven seater rented car after a long and windy drive up the mountains (albeit on pleasantly re-laid tarmac roads), we were met by Robin’s friend Katherine who said I should just swing the wagon round and go straight to the bottom of the 'car park'! Uuumh... well I'd got this far without incident but this was going to be a test and required nerves of steel. My six passengers were suddenly very silent. You see the top of the 'drive' is very narrow with quite a drop if you judge it wrong! Anyway we got down there in one piece and I got out with legs shaking - this is not sounding like a very good review at the moment is it?
ANYWAY by the end of the week I had become a pro at three-point turns. We all walked down the pathway with luggage in tow to our idyllic hideaway for the next week - everything you read about is true and the pictures on Robin’s own website give an even better idea of what to find.
The Mill was very well decorated and, as everyone has said, has those added extras that make it all that bit more special (including the satellite TV - we were able to watch X-factor!!). We absolutely loved our breakfasts on the sunny balcony each morning and the views were absolutely stunning. Lying by the pool in the afternoon admiring these views was one of my most special moments.
We walked around the surrounding mountains and followed some of the routes in the book 'Holiday Walks in the Alpujarras'.
We can't recommend any restaurants as we ate in every night (a good idea to stock up in the large Eroski supermarket on the way from the airport) as we found the very local supermarkets in the villages were not always open.That said, Cadiar has a good supermarket, bakers and a really fresh butcher who understands English!).
Our teenage children and 11 year old entertained themselves exploring, sunbathing and seeing who could last longest in the rather cold October swimming pool (it was actually Grandad - 70 years!) Granny got the pseudonym 'Action Gran' as she tackled the mostly up hill walks.
After a couple of days at the Mill we wished we'd booked it for 2 weeks. We have vowed to return to do more walks, see more villages and just spend quality time together. We are very reluctant to tell anyone else about this place as we want it to be our secret. Unfortunately we probably won't be able to help ourselves!
So when we all arrived in our seven seater rented car after a long and windy drive up the mountains (albeit on pleasantly re-laid tarmac roads), we were met by Robin’s friend Katherine who said I should just swing the wagon round and go straight to the bottom of the 'car park'! Uuumh... well I'd got this far without incident but this was going to be a test and required nerves of steel. My six passengers were suddenly very silent. You see the top of the 'drive' is very narrow with quite a drop if you judge it wrong! Anyway we got down there in one piece and I got out with legs shaking - this is not sounding like a very good review at the moment is it?
ANYWAY by the end of the week I had become a pro at three-point turns. We all walked down the pathway with luggage in tow to our idyllic hideaway for the next week - everything you read about is true and the pictures on Robin’s own website give an even better idea of what to find.
The Mill was very well decorated and, as everyone has said, has those added extras that make it all that bit more special (including the satellite TV - we were able to watch X-factor!!). We absolutely loved our breakfasts on the sunny balcony each morning and the views were absolutely stunning. Lying by the pool in the afternoon admiring these views was one of my most special moments.
We walked around the surrounding mountains and followed some of the routes in the book 'Holiday Walks in the Alpujarras'.
We can't recommend any restaurants as we ate in every night (a good idea to stock up in the large Eroski supermarket on the way from the airport) as we found the very local supermarkets in the villages were not always open.That said, Cadiar has a good supermarket, bakers and a really fresh butcher who understands English!).
Our teenage children and 11 year old entertained themselves exploring, sunbathing and seeing who could last longest in the rather cold October swimming pool (it was actually Grandad - 70 years!) Granny got the pseudonym 'Action Gran' as she tackled the mostly up hill walks.
After a couple of days at the Mill we wished we'd booked it for 2 weeks. We have vowed to return to do more walks, see more villages and just spend quality time together. We are very reluctant to tell anyone else about this place as we want it to be our secret. Unfortunately we probably won't be able to help ourselves!
A wonderful, secluded retreat
Review Submitted: August 16, 2009
Date of Stay: July 2009
We had waited a long time for our holiday to the Mill, having booked it nearly 2 years before, but the wait was well worth it. The Mill is a wonderful, secluded retreat where you can leave all the stresses and strains of your busy life behind and go about the task of recharging the batteries and finding normality in your life. It sits nestled in a small valley surrounded by verdant trees and plants with a most relaxing stream tumbling down the hillside forming waterfalls and pools on its journey. Your first impression of the Mill is so positive there is everything and more that you could need to make your stay truly relaxing and memorable. The Mill is beautifully restored and tastefully furnished; a haven for that away from it all break.
From the terrace the views are fantastic and hours can be spent led there watching the changing light in the valley below, enjoying the sun or shade, listening to the wild life, the tranquil sounds of the stream or the gentle rustling in the trees. Sleep comes easy at the Mill as it is pleasantly cool in the bedrooms at night and no dreadful buzzing things!
We found it hard to wrench ourselves away to take the short drive to Bercules to replenish stocks and were always glad to return to this little paradise.
Robin is most fantastic host, always on call and nothing ever seems too much trouble. He already feels like a friend we have known for many years.
We never normally return to the same place twice as we are always in search of the next great location, The Mill may be the exception to our rule as we already know that we would happily return there. Until the Mill we had yet to find anywhere that hit all the right buttons and is what it says it is. We felt as though we had stepped of this planet for 2 weeks and hated having to leave and return to reality! We very much look forward to another stay.
From the terrace the views are fantastic and hours can be spent led there watching the changing light in the valley below, enjoying the sun or shade, listening to the wild life, the tranquil sounds of the stream or the gentle rustling in the trees. Sleep comes easy at the Mill as it is pleasantly cool in the bedrooms at night and no dreadful buzzing things!
We found it hard to wrench ourselves away to take the short drive to Bercules to replenish stocks and were always glad to return to this little paradise.
Robin is most fantastic host, always on call and nothing ever seems too much trouble. He already feels like a friend we have known for many years.
We never normally return to the same place twice as we are always in search of the next great location, The Mill may be the exception to our rule as we already know that we would happily return there. Until the Mill we had yet to find anywhere that hit all the right buttons and is what it says it is. We felt as though we had stepped of this planet for 2 weeks and hated having to leave and return to reality! We very much look forward to another stay.
Romantic and luxurious
Review Submitted: July 19, 2009
Date of Stay: July 2009
This house has it all: Rustic beauty, breathtaking view and luxurious pool/jacuzzi/bathrooms. We already miss it! Pleanty of room for 7 people - in our case: 2 adults - 3 teens - and 2 kids. Be ready for some a beautifull, but long and steep walk from the road to the house - and do some serious shopping before you arrive to the Alpuharras.
Madsen/Birkemose, Denmark
Madsen/Birkemose, Denmark
Great place to get away from it all.....
Review Submitted: July 14, 2009
Date of Stay: June 2009
My family and I enjoyed our one week stay at the mill. Robin the owner was very helpful, meeting us on arrival and ensuring some supplies were there including a welcome bottle of wine. The location is extremely peaceful and the accomodation is very well equiped with everthing you would need with quite a modern taste. The only thing I would say is the trip up and down to the mill from the car parking area is not easy especially in the heat though by the end of the week it was getting easier. The pool is also near the car parking area and quite a bit away from the main house. With young children it was not easy to leave them on their own. The pool can also be seen from the main road. Possibly the installation of a CCTV camera or an interncom would put your mind at rest when children were at the pool on their own. Other than that the mill is a very special place and we loved our time there with lots of small villages to visit with some really nice restaurants. A great place for kids to explore and walks around the mill were an adventure for our kids.
Wonderful secluded place
Review Submitted: June 15, 2009
Date of Stay: May 2009
The walk up from the Mill is hard work but you can stop and check out the wildlife, pick the cherries, take photos to give yourself time to get your breath back & move on up. Coming down was a lot easier & by the end of the week we were quite fit.
The pool has all day sun & although not actually heated was warm enough for even me to take a dip in. Little or no shade up at the pool so need to make sure you have a good sunscreen on. Cool box is provided so we stocked it with lunch & drinks & took it up with us so we didn't have to go back down again. Don't forget the sun lounger padlock as it's a long walk back down & up to get it!
We did find the terrace cool in the mornings until the sun came up. However, towelling robes are provided so we just tucked ourselves up in these & ate out every morning & BBQ'd every evening. The cooler evenings also gave us a good excuse to have a log fire in the smaller BBQ.
Walked into Juviles & spent a lovely evening at the local bar. Going we took the path behind the Mill & then we came back the road way, both are easy to do if you are reasonably fit. Found the shop but it was never open.
Roads are challenging around the Mill but as we were on motor bikes this was what we wanted. Drive down to the parking area was a little more difficult on the bikes but we coped with it. You do need to allow additional time to get out of the Alpujarras, we went to the Alhambra in Granada & to Mini Hollywood & these were full day excursions given the travel time there and back.
Don't bother going to the tropical coast, it's just miles of plastic poly tunnels. Ugly, scruffy a real let down.
Some Spanish would be very useful but we did manage with a phrase book & lots of smiles.
Every where we went we were given free tapas, these ranged from crisps, nuts, prawns, whitebait, ham & cheese, one of the best were the little baby burgers in the bar in Juviles. (1st on the left as you enter Juviles from the Mill).
Robin was wonderful, helped us get the shopping in at the start of the holiday, kept in touch with us during our stay to make sure everything was OK.
The supermarket in Orgiva has fresh milk.
There is a washing machine & clothes dried really quickly on the terrace so travel light you will only have to carry it up & down the path.
Wasn't brave enough to try the plunge pool other than to dip my toe in as the water was straight of the mountains and very cold.
We all loved it thank you
The pool has all day sun & although not actually heated was warm enough for even me to take a dip in. Little or no shade up at the pool so need to make sure you have a good sunscreen on. Cool box is provided so we stocked it with lunch & drinks & took it up with us so we didn't have to go back down again. Don't forget the sun lounger padlock as it's a long walk back down & up to get it!
We did find the terrace cool in the mornings until the sun came up. However, towelling robes are provided so we just tucked ourselves up in these & ate out every morning & BBQ'd every evening. The cooler evenings also gave us a good excuse to have a log fire in the smaller BBQ.
Walked into Juviles & spent a lovely evening at the local bar. Going we took the path behind the Mill & then we came back the road way, both are easy to do if you are reasonably fit. Found the shop but it was never open.
Roads are challenging around the Mill but as we were on motor bikes this was what we wanted. Drive down to the parking area was a little more difficult on the bikes but we coped with it. You do need to allow additional time to get out of the Alpujarras, we went to the Alhambra in Granada & to Mini Hollywood & these were full day excursions given the travel time there and back.
Don't bother going to the tropical coast, it's just miles of plastic poly tunnels. Ugly, scruffy a real let down.
Some Spanish would be very useful but we did manage with a phrase book & lots of smiles.
Every where we went we were given free tapas, these ranged from crisps, nuts, prawns, whitebait, ham & cheese, one of the best were the little baby burgers in the bar in Juviles. (1st on the left as you enter Juviles from the Mill).
Robin was wonderful, helped us get the shopping in at the start of the holiday, kept in touch with us during our stay to make sure everything was OK.
The supermarket in Orgiva has fresh milk.
There is a washing machine & clothes dried really quickly on the terrace so travel light you will only have to carry it up & down the path.
Wasn't brave enough to try the plunge pool other than to dip my toe in as the water was straight of the mountains and very cold.
We all loved it thank you
Our week at the mill
Review Submitted: June 5, 2009
Date of Stay: May 2009
Such a unique setting - near total privacy and close to nature!
You need to be energetic though - the walk up and down the long steep path might deter some. But if you do like walking you cannot match the idea of walking straight off the BBQ terrace, across the rope bridge and within seconds being on a secluded path leading towards the GR7 long distance route and spectacular views of the main hills and valley. I even tried it by mountain bike.
The property was very neat and clean and simply furnished. The waterfalls and constant rippling of streams make a relaxing background noise. There are several terraces with sunbeds - so you can always find a private spot - however one disappointment for sun worshippers would be the valley setting which limits the early morning and evening sun coverage. At the end of May the sun did not reach the breakfast terrace until gone 10:00 and was lost completely by 17:00. The sun stayed on the pool (near the top of the hill) until 19:00. We would have used the pool much more had it been adjacent to the property - also the pool is the one area without privacy as it is overlooked by the road.
The hot tub was some compensation, however, and this is right by the house - so handy for the evenings - and adjustable up to a luxurious 40°C.
The three bedrooms each with their ensuite bathrooms were all full of character and kept nice and cool being in the lower storeys. The main bedroom is great but felt a little gloomy in the mornings - due to the small windows and valley setting. No waking up with the sun - you definitely will need an alarm clock.
The kitchen is reasonably equipped and the knives were sharp. No dishwasher however - which was a shame.
The owner was very helpful and friendly, and we found that the guestbook was very helpful by suggesting places to visit and local shops.
Sightseeing wise there isn't much to do locally (Alhambra, Granada nearly 2 hrs by car - worth it but book in advance by internet.) - except walk and cycle being near the heart of the Alpajurra Taha region with its pretty whitewashed houses. You can also mountain bike on these routes - experts only - the climb and drops are severe! There are useful maps and guides in the living room which can be borrowed, but I would recommend you buy the map "Sierra Nevada La Alpujarra - Mapa Excursionista - 1:40,000" by Editorial Alpina in advance (available on-line in the UK) so you can start planning your rural escape right now!
You need to be energetic though - the walk up and down the long steep path might deter some. But if you do like walking you cannot match the idea of walking straight off the BBQ terrace, across the rope bridge and within seconds being on a secluded path leading towards the GR7 long distance route and spectacular views of the main hills and valley. I even tried it by mountain bike.
The property was very neat and clean and simply furnished. The waterfalls and constant rippling of streams make a relaxing background noise. There are several terraces with sunbeds - so you can always find a private spot - however one disappointment for sun worshippers would be the valley setting which limits the early morning and evening sun coverage. At the end of May the sun did not reach the breakfast terrace until gone 10:00 and was lost completely by 17:00. The sun stayed on the pool (near the top of the hill) until 19:00. We would have used the pool much more had it been adjacent to the property - also the pool is the one area without privacy as it is overlooked by the road.
The hot tub was some compensation, however, and this is right by the house - so handy for the evenings - and adjustable up to a luxurious 40°C.
The three bedrooms each with their ensuite bathrooms were all full of character and kept nice and cool being in the lower storeys. The main bedroom is great but felt a little gloomy in the mornings - due to the small windows and valley setting. No waking up with the sun - you definitely will need an alarm clock.
The kitchen is reasonably equipped and the knives were sharp. No dishwasher however - which was a shame.
The owner was very helpful and friendly, and we found that the guestbook was very helpful by suggesting places to visit and local shops.
Sightseeing wise there isn't much to do locally (Alhambra, Granada nearly 2 hrs by car - worth it but book in advance by internet.) - except walk and cycle being near the heart of the Alpajurra Taha region with its pretty whitewashed houses. You can also mountain bike on these routes - experts only - the climb and drops are severe! There are useful maps and guides in the living room which can be borrowed, but I would recommend you buy the map "Sierra Nevada La Alpujarra - Mapa Excursionista - 1:40,000" by Editorial Alpina in advance (available on-line in the UK) so you can start planning your rural escape right now!
A very enjoyable stay and an excellent host
Review Submitted: May 11, 2009
Date of Stay: April 2009
A wonderful location surrounded by woodland and waterfalls. We enjoyed all the various shady or sunny spots where you could tuck yourself away and read or write, paint or daydream.
All the rooms were attractive, though still cold in April - we needed the heaters and hot water bottles! The main living space was ideal with a wonderful open fire. The location is ideal for easy walking - with Trevelez (an 8 mile drive away) being the ideal starting point for the higher mountain routes.
Most outstanding, however, was Robin's 'customer care'..meeting us on arrival, helping with bags, finding us late opening petrol stations, sending on the items we left behind..nothing was too much trouble!
All the rooms were attractive, though still cold in April - we needed the heaters and hot water bottles! The main living space was ideal with a wonderful open fire. The location is ideal for easy walking - with Trevelez (an 8 mile drive away) being the ideal starting point for the higher mountain routes.
Most outstanding, however, was Robin's 'customer care'..meeting us on arrival, helping with bags, finding us late opening petrol stations, sending on the items we left behind..nothing was too much trouble!
A magical place for adults too
Review Submitted: January 6, 2009
Date of Stay: December 2008
When I booked the Mill for Christmas this year I had little idea about just how remote it is. We arrived in the dark with snow still at the side of the roads and saw Robin's flashing van parked on the side of the windy road but weren't sure where to go. We saw a narrow dirt track with a cliff on one side and drove down to the remains of an old stone house. Slightly concerned we'd stopped at the wrong place, we got out to find the house we had booked. Down a winding gravel and rock path, nestled in the ravine we saw a light below us and rushed down to the welcoming lights and warm fire. The Mill is every bit as magical as it looks, even in winter. The bedrooms were cold but the duvets were very warm and the heaters provided enough warmth to get rid of the chill. The wood fire in the main room provided a heart to the house where we could socialise, watch TV and play games.
The walks around the valley were spectacular although the affects of altitude did take my retired (but fit) parents by surprise. The house is not really suitable for the elderly as just to get to the car is a 200m walk up a very steep hill.
The breakfast balcony with its spectacular views was the centre of our morning activity as the first few days the temperature soared to around 21 deg (although it was around 0 at night) and our Christmas Day barbeque was a wonderful change from the norm.
We didn't try the plunge pool as the water was icy, being straight from the melted mountain snow, but gazing at the stars from the hot tub in the evening was lovely. (No light pollution so the night sky is fantastic).
If you want to get away from it all and experience a way of life that hasn't changed much for the last 150 years (the sheep and goats still roam the hils with their herder and pass through the valley) then the Alpujarras and the Mill is the place for you. Suitable for children and groups of adults alike (but I wouldn't recomment it for anyone with mobility difficulties) - it provides seclusion, privacy and a great base to explore the mountains.
The walks around the valley were spectacular although the affects of altitude did take my retired (but fit) parents by surprise. The house is not really suitable for the elderly as just to get to the car is a 200m walk up a very steep hill.
The breakfast balcony with its spectacular views was the centre of our morning activity as the first few days the temperature soared to around 21 deg (although it was around 0 at night) and our Christmas Day barbeque was a wonderful change from the norm.
We didn't try the plunge pool as the water was icy, being straight from the melted mountain snow, but gazing at the stars from the hot tub in the evening was lovely. (No light pollution so the night sky is fantastic).
If you want to get away from it all and experience a way of life that hasn't changed much for the last 150 years (the sheep and goats still roam the hils with their herder and pass through the valley) then the Alpujarras and the Mill is the place for you. Suitable for children and groups of adults alike (but I wouldn't recomment it for anyone with mobility difficulties) - it provides seclusion, privacy and a great base to explore the mountains.
Our corner of paradise!
Review Submitted: November 20, 2008
Date of Stay: July 2008
Our family (grndparents, mum, dad and two children aged 11 & 13) visited The Mill in July this year. It was everything it promised to be. The house is exceptionally well-equipped for a holiday home yet care has been taken to preserve the original character of The Mill. Robin, the owner, is delightful, and was always ready with help and advice if needed - this included help with luggage and getting some shopping in for our arrival.
The location is so peaceful that we never strayed far but visited the pretty Alpujarran villages nearby and ventured to Granada, an easy drive - the Alhambra is not to be missed. It is extremely hot in July but you can always find shade and a breeze at The Mill
The house is great for older children - plenty places to explore and get away from adults. Equally, adults seeking a bit of 'me' time can always find a secluded spot to hide away with a good book! The swimming pool is some distance above the house so small children would need to be supervised.
It is a bit of a hike down to The Mill from the car park but at the end of two weeks we all had calves of steel and could do the climb with only one stop - our grandson could run up! Because of this, it's worth stocking up at one of the coastal supermarkets for a big 'shop' on the way from the airport - Velez Malaga was very good. We found nearby Cadiar good for topping up. The abundance of fruit in the garden gave us some lovely deserts!
If you are looking for a stunning location, peace and quiet, and the chance to explore a still unspoilt area of Spain, then The Mill comes highly recommended!
Intrepid Explorers, Oxfordshire
The location is so peaceful that we never strayed far but visited the pretty Alpujarran villages nearby and ventured to Granada, an easy drive - the Alhambra is not to be missed. It is extremely hot in July but you can always find shade and a breeze at The Mill
The house is great for older children - plenty places to explore and get away from adults. Equally, adults seeking a bit of 'me' time can always find a secluded spot to hide away with a good book! The swimming pool is some distance above the house so small children would need to be supervised.
It is a bit of a hike down to The Mill from the car park but at the end of two weeks we all had calves of steel and could do the climb with only one stop - our grandson could run up! Because of this, it's worth stocking up at one of the coastal supermarkets for a big 'shop' on the way from the airport - Velez Malaga was very good. We found nearby Cadiar good for topping up. The abundance of fruit in the garden gave us some lovely deserts!
If you are looking for a stunning location, peace and quiet, and the chance to explore a still unspoilt area of Spain, then The Mill comes highly recommended!
Intrepid Explorers, Oxfordshire
Fabulous chillout hideaway
Review Submitted: August 19, 2008
Date of Stay: July 2008
Lives up to description in every aspect. Superb accommodation in peaceful location with tremendous views. Plenty of walking opportunities if you're that way inclined, but not in mid-summer. Lots of interest for kids with the stream and plunge pools, but for under 10s you'd have to be prepared to go with them just in case. Something to suit everyone in our party (4 adults + 2 kids). Location of The Mill in its valley meant that even in mid-summer it was always possible to find a little bit of shade and catch a bit of breeze to take the edge off the heat. No need to venture far away - a perfect place to chill out.
Great shopping service provided by Robin. Best to take opportunity to pick up fresh supplies (especially fish) at a supermarket enroute from the airport, but beware being tempted by too much - it's quite a walk down to The Mill. Good shops for everyday essentials in local villages - Juviles, Berchules. Trevelez has plenty of choice as well and is well worth a visit.
Don't take too much baggage - it's not a "dressing up" location. The more you take, the more you have to carry back up the path!
Robin is a very good host - nothing is too much trouble. It is a very special, unique place - perfect to chill out in great surroundings with plenty of plonk and a good book. We would love to go back - it would be good to get out and about a bit more and explore the area, but one week was just too short..
Great shopping service provided by Robin. Best to take opportunity to pick up fresh supplies (especially fish) at a supermarket enroute from the airport, but beware being tempted by too much - it's quite a walk down to The Mill. Good shops for everyday essentials in local villages - Juviles, Berchules. Trevelez has plenty of choice as well and is well worth a visit.
Don't take too much baggage - it's not a "dressing up" location. The more you take, the more you have to carry back up the path!
Robin is a very good host - nothing is too much trouble. It is a very special, unique place - perfect to chill out in great surroundings with plenty of plonk and a good book. We would love to go back - it would be good to get out and about a bit more and explore the area, but one week was just too short..
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