Cortijo Genesis

Even before you arrive at Cortijo Genesis, the whitewashed walls among the green landscape envelop you in the special atmosphere of the Andalusian hills. The boutique hotel and agritourism retreat, with its courtyard reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda, has five guest rooms, each with a color scheme inspired by a different semi-precious stone: aventurine green, citrine yellow, lapis lazuli blue, carnelian red, and morganite pink. the tranquil, neutral walls are the perfect backdrop for the jewel-toned highlights of the fabrics, furniture, and decorative elements. Once a forgotten ruin, Cortijo Genesis has been completely reinterpreted by interior designer Victoria-Maria Geyer. Just outside the beautiful mountain village of Gaucín, halfway between Marbella and Gibraltar, she has transformed the old walls into an eclectic country hotel with a touch of Palm Springs and mid-century style. Today, the white façade shines brightly among lush plants, the wrought-iron sun loungers and retro umbrellas around the curved pool exude nostalgic flair, and a tiled fountain splashes in the courtyard. In keeping with the slow travel philosophy, Belgian hosts Valentina and Nicolas Brusselmans have created a retreat that is all about a conscious experience and an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. They invite their guests to take in this place with all their senses: on walks in the hills, reading under old trees, a session on the yoga platform, or with reiki. Let the delicious breakfast, with homemade bread, jams made from fruit from the garden, pancakes, and eggs from the hotel’s own chickens, be the first mindfulness exercise of the day—you'll find that it tastes even better when you enjoy it in complete peace and quiet.

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• Every corner reflects a love of craftsmanship, storytelling, and design. Every tiny detail has been carefully chosen.
• The open-plan living area with kitchen, library, and seating, which forms the center of the house. The colors are warm, there are lots of books and a cheerful mix of furniture and art.
• There are extraordinary pieces to discover in every room, such as ornate tapestries or the Cronos and Manon lamps by Heaps & Woods.
• The ceiling in the reading area with rainbow-colored wooden slats spreads positive energy. The sofa and curtains in bright colors give the room an ethnic touch.
• The beautiful kitchen, where the most delicious meals are prepared. Everything fits together perfectly here: the saffron-yellow tiles with the retro table and the linen painting above the fireplace, which picks up on the color scheme.
• The many four-legged friends who belong to the family: the adopted dogs, a rescued donkey, horses, and a black cat.
• The hand-painted ceramic sinks in the bathrooms, which you would love to copy for your own home.
• The garden with its natural corners, winding paths for short walks, and many shady spots that are perfect for meditating or daydreaming.
• Tomatoes, basil, figs, zucchini, eggplant, pumpkin – everything on the table comes from the hotel’s own permaculture – a project for diversity and sustainability that is unique in the region.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Cortijo Genesis is located on an 8.5-hectare estate surrounded by rolling green hills, and can accommodate a total of 12 guests.
• The 5 rooms with different color themes are different sizes and can accommodate 2-4 people. All have en suite bathrooms, some also have a wood-burning stove, a private terrace or balcony, and all are equipped with air conditioning.
• Guests aged 12 and over are welcome.
• Every morning, guests can enjoy an à la carte breakfast, which is included in the room price. Twice a week, a three-course dinner is also served.
• All rooms have a magnificent view, either of the gardens or the Andalusian hills in the distance (on very clear days, you can even see Gibraltar).
• The country hotel has a large pool with a view of the countryside, which can be used all year round, as well as meditation areas and a yoga platform – yoga equipment (mats and blocks) can be borrowed.
• Bathroom amenities from the Portuguese manufacturer Castelbel await guests in their rooms.
• Those feeling adventurous can go hiking or cycling in the area, visit shops and restaurants in nearby San Pablo de Buceite, cool off in the river, or visit the pretty village of Gaucín.
• Shall it be horseback riding, cooking classes, massages, or reiki sessions? The hosts are happy to help fulfill all such requests. Retreats on nutrition, yoga, art, or creative writing also take place regularly.
• The nearest airport is Malaga, 80 kilometers away.
• Those who want to get around can rent a car—for guests who do not come by car, the hosts also offer a shuttle service.