so much that I am nearly afraid to recommend it in case it gets too busy! We have stayed in the villa turistica on several occasions. It is a simple hotel in Spanish style, but the real enjoyment is in your 'room' which is actually a litttle house (duplex in some cases) built in a cluster at the rear of the hotel reception, bar and restaurant. These are simply and beautifully furnished and very clean. Bathrooms are a bit dated but are heated and have plentiful hot water. Wood for the stove costs €3 and would probably last for a few days. While we were there on a trip from the sun-drenched Costa del Sol we actually had flurries of snow and took the opportunity to sit over the stove in our room with a bottle of wine, and earlier at the fire in the bar. Dinner didn't happen til 8.30. and since were hungry we were provided with a spread of Serranno ham, olives, cheese and bread. Heaven!
We had opted for half board on this occasion and the menu was quite adequate. The specialitiy of the region is trout, and this was on offer plus venison. Desserts were good and the Andalucian soup is usually very good. Breakfast is a full buffet which would do justice to many a more expensive hotel. Staff are pleasant and friendly, and the atmosphere is homely although not over-familiar.
There are walks around the area, including to the ruins of the castle which houses a museum, and into the village where there are a couple of good restaurants. Nearby is La Iruela which is worth a visit. And not to be missed is the National Park of Cazorla. To see such a variety of flora and fauna is a real treat. At the first mirador (view) on the way into the park a flock of birds of prey will usually give a display. We see deer and lizards and small animals like squirrels. The lake is worth a visit.
Nearby are the towns of Baeza and Ubeda which are perfect gems of 16th century architecture.