A visit to the Real La Joya boutique hotel, close to the sleepy seaside village of Agua Amarga on the shores of the Mediterranean, is to discover Andalucia as it once was, writes Andrew Forbes.

Impressive gardens of date palms, towering euphorbia succulents, cactus and colourful bougainvillea surround this twelve-suite boutique property, with an art gallery, secluded terraces shaded by carob trees; a gourmet restaurant overlooking the all-year heated pool; and spectacular views out across the two mountains and the Mediterranean.

Coastal Natural Park
Real La Joya boutique hotel is in the coastal hamlet of La Joya, a small cluster of rural adobe homes, surrounded by fruit orchards set within a beautiful semi-arid landscape. This is the heart of the Cabo de Gata, an extraordinarily beautiful coastal natural park, unique in Europe. This is a protected haven for wildlife and rare plants; boasting one of the most striking coastlines in Andalucia. This is truly the hidden Spain.
A few minutes? drive further down the road from Real La Joya boutique hotel is the seaside village of Agua Amarga. Here the coast is undeveloped, thanks to strict building regulations that protect these striking shores which have been shaped by a volcanic past that has created a rugged shore line of hidden sandy coves and stunning hiking routes.
Hotel, Villas & Beach Club
The boutique hotel has sister properties in this peaceful fishing village including a bijou beach club, ?Real Beach?; as well as...