This place was astonishing. Located in the twisting medieval passages of the village, looking out over the Sierra Nevada, and filled with beautiful things; I've never been anywhere quite like it. On our first day Tom came round bringing a gift of olives taken from a tree in the grounds. We ate them that evening on the terrace, watching the sun set over the mountains. If you want peace, quiet and the quirky charms of a unique place, book now - you won't regret it. The house probably wouldn't suit those with small children, those comforted by a one-size-fits-all corporate hotel, or those (in fairness) who love a bustling nightlife. My heights-phobic husband didn't love the switchbacking mountain roads either.
But if you fancy a lazy meal on a terrace under a canopy of vines, or staying in a home that's been standing for 700 years, or climbing down a Moorish staircase to your bedroom, this one's for you.

Another lovely visit for our family in Casa Aloe: leisurely walking, vigorous hiking, mulberry and wild plum poaching, ingesting scenery, loving the house, cooking, eating, conversation with a view, playing in the pool, quiet, meditation, social club, visiting, learning, forgetting.

Casa Aloe reminds us that all can be well in the world when you seek it out.

Thank you Tom and Carmen!

After traveling for a few months and staying in various places I have to say that our stay in Atalbeitar gets the cup. It is one thing to rent a room or a house somewhere and be content, it is something else to want to move there.
You can read all about the house in previous reviews. The house is most charming to say the least. But aside from the house is a village, neighboring villages, community. When one travels this is what makes you want to come back. The neighbors from away who have stumbled upon this place and never left have enriched the area. Artists, architects, musicians, farmers. Within the few villages in walking distance you will be able to do yoga several times a week, listen to live music, at the farmers market you will find all the fresh fruits and vegetable you may need. The best ham in the country is cured in these mountains As a family we were welcome, invited to take part of fiestas, invited to parties.
And then the scenery; ever changing, stunning, filled with ancient ruins and old pathways. Every walk brings a new discovery; almond trees for a quick snack, village fountains to quench your thirst.
A little bit of paradise if you ask me.

We are a group of musicians, photographers, nature lovers, tree huggers, artists, cooks, poets, fresh market connoisseurs, cool-water-from-the-town-fountain dippers, and mostly self-described bohemians. Our recent visit to Tom and Carmen's charming house, Casa Aloe, accommodated us and all of our needs. It was like coming home. The backyard view, alone, was worth the journey! Everything else, the cozy rooms, the well-equipped kitchen, the lovely village of Atalbeitar, the friendly neighbors, the ancient walking paths, and the ever-present sense of Moorish history, were icing on the cake. We cannot thank Tom and Carmen enough'for their kindness, help, and responses and for sharing their corner of the world. For us, it has made all the difference.

Our week at Casa Aloe was a wonderful escape from daily bustle, responsibilities and miserable weather...

Being the end of January, you could hardly call it scorching in the mountains, but the light was glorious, and the top of the day really was warm. More like a really good Scottish spring day

But enough about the weather.

The house is one huge work of art - so many wonderful details, all crafted out of the shell of a Moorish building dating back hundreds of years. Traditional building techniques which only enhance the special feeling of the place. It's a very three dimensional house - a few steps between most rooms give it a slightly rabbit warren/hobbit house feel, and probably not a perfect right angle in the building. Again, a glorious escape from our normal lives.

Very well presented for guests too, everything we needed was clear and our bed was warm, comfy and expansive!

Atalbeitar is a very quiet, unspoilt village - we saw a lot more cats than humans during our time in the village. It's a great jumping off point for the many slightly larger villages of La Taha and beyond, and Pitres is very nearby (10 minutes drive, or a unique half hour walk across the valley along goat tracks) for all your practical needs - ie, the supermarket!

We went as a couple, but I would love to return with a large group to fulfill the true potential of the house, and explore more of this gorgeous area.