Casa de Carmona

Seville

The biggest mistake one can make about Spain is to reduce it to a simple, sunny place for a beach vacation. Apart from the Costa del Sol, Ibiza and Mallorca, all charming spots of course, Spain is above all a country with varied landscapes, ancestral traditions and a host of different atmospheres. Visiting the Iberian Peninsula is a journey filled with surprises, far from the clichés, and at the heart of a civilization whose sense of hospitality is legendary.

In addition to its Mediterranean climate and continental influences, the south of Spain is a harder and drier land but one with an incredible sensuality. The capital of this mythical south and of Andalusia is Seville, which has gleamed like a bright star for centuries. Its heritage, the result of Visigoth, Moslem and Christian traditions is one of the richest in Europe. The cathedral is the key monument, but one has to discover the entire city to understand just how unique and magic it is. And to discover it, why not take a few steps back from it?

A luxurious and charming retreat

The Casa de Carmona is a boutique hotel about a quarter of an hour’s distance from Seville, in the historical and charming center of the city of Carmona. The building goes back to the 16^th century and is remarkably preserved and maintained. In short, it’s a true Andalusian palace, and it’s the ambience one feels in this jewel of a family hotel. Directed by Felipe Guardiola, his wife and his faithful and dedicated employees, the Casa de Carmona represents affordable luxury, deeply anchored in the daily life and love of these old stones. It’s not an ultra modern palace, but a haven of peace where guests are welcomed as friends by a staff that is only too happy to help you discover a place they are passionately in love with. And how can you not fall in love with this building, constructed in 1562, with magnificent patios organized down to the last detail, the love of detail throughout the place and the 33 rooms which are invitations to relaxation. Works of art and antiques complete this atmosphere of refinement and savoir faire. Opened in 1991, this boutique hotel quickly became a reference for the region and an undeniable success. The most beautiful room is undoubtedly the 200 square meter Azul Suite with its two bedrooms and two living rooms. It’s a truly exceptional suite and an excellent reason for coming to discover Carmona. The Casa Carmona’s cuisine places the emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce, in the hope that each meal will be a special experience worthy of the fantastic surroundings. The restaurant is located in what were once the stables, and so needless to say, the size is absolutely phenomenal.

Carmona is a white city whose historical center has retained the aspect of an Arab medina. Dominated by the Alcazar, the city is surrounded by ramparts dating back to the Moorish era. There are still a considerable number of Baroque palaces and churches, making it one of the must sites in Andalusia for culture seeking visitors.