Andalucia is a region that has borne the imprint of different cultures and civilisations over the centuries and this is reflected in the diversity of its towns and cities. To visit is to marvel at Arcos perched high on its cliff top eyrie, Ronda split by its plunging gorge, Ecija with its fabulous baroque palaces and Cordoba where the soaring cathedral entombs the Moorish mosque – and of course the most famous, Granada, and its fairytale fortress, the Alhambra. There are beautifully restored old palaces to choose to stay in, or chic town houses all within close proximity of the sights. The order by which the hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.

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  Alavera de los Banos

  Ronda, Andalucia

  Stunning views, intimate interiors, and a calm ambience just below Ronda old town. Vibrant decor and rustic character, with small library, lovely garden, and pool.

  from $111

  Sights nearby  -  Close to the Arab baths.

  Full of character

  Views  -  Great views from hotel

  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
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  Hotel Palacio de los Granados

  Ecija, Sevilla, Andalucia

  18th century palace, with simple, traditional rooms and suites filled with paintings and antiques. Courtyard, gardens, and swimming pool. An oasis, and a good location for sights.

  from $113

  Romantic  -  Good for couples.

  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor

  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
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  La Casa Grande

  Arcos de la Frontera, Andalucia

  Delightful and majestic 18th century mansion in dramatic setting overlooking the valley in historic hilltop village. Simple but spacious rooms, great value, full of character, with lots of local colour.

  8 rooms from $96

  Views  -  Spectacular views over Andalucia.

  Great walks  -  Good walking country.

  Full of character

  Outstanding location

  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Sawdays
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  Hotel San Gabriel

  Ronda, Malaga, Andalucia

  Characterful 18th-century family home hotel in the heart of old Ronda. Traditionally decorated rooms, classic Spanish style, full of art and antiques. Small private cinema adds sparkle.

  21 rooms from $115

  Birdwatching  -  Birding owner can book trips.

  Full of character

  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.

  Romantic  -  Good for couples.

  Recommended by  -  I Escape
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  La Casa Morisca

  Bajo Albayzín, Granada, Andalucia

  Beautifully restored 15th-century house in prime location a short walk from the Alhambra. Galleried inner courtyard, marble pool, traditional rooms, some with views.

  from $111

  Sights nearby  -  Close to the Alhambra.

  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
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  Hotel Casa de Los Azulejos

  Cordoba, Andalucia

  Laidback, colonial style house hotel with bright decoration, Mexican style. Delightful, planted garden courtyard, hammocks, full of artwork. Eclectic, individual bedrooms.

  9 rooms from $105

  Garden  -  Charming courtyard garden.

  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.

  Full of character
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  Hotel Santa Isabel La Real

  Albayzín, Granada, Andalucia

  Charming family-run guesthouse with views in picturesque setting, a short walk to Granada city centre. Bright, pretty, simply furnished rooms overlook inner courtyard.

  11 rooms from $111

  Sights nearby  -  10 min walk to city centre.

  Full of character

  Romantic  -  Good for couples.

  Views  -  Great views from hotel
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  La Hospederia de El Churrasco

  Cordoba, Andalucia

  Very Spanish and rather ornate hotel in the old Jewish Quarter. Moorish influence and Roman mosaics. Sumptuously decorated rooms, Cordoban antiques, charming courtyard, quiet.

  9 rooms from $233

  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
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  Palacio de la Rambla

  Ubeda (Jaén), Andalucia

  Well-preserved 16th-century palace, now a wonderfully aristocratic maison d'hote. Secluded setting, centred on cloistered courtyard, furnished with family antiques. Large baronial bedrooms, tasteful and charming.

  8 rooms from $157

  Full of character

  House party feel  -  Be prepared to meet people.

  Romantic  -  Good for couples.

  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
• Enquire direct Online rates

  La Casona del Arco

  Baeza, Andalucia

  Peaceful antique-filled hotel in the historic old town. Spacious, simply furnished rooms, hand-painted tiled bathrooms. Patio with swimming pool, spa, saloons. A great base for local exploring.

  18 rooms from $98

  Spa

  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor

  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.

Written by  Tristam Templer, posted Friday, 12th February 2010