Jardin Al Andalus

School of Nature Jardin al Andalus offers a new concept of educational tourism- a rare chance to be immersed in a completely different way of life. which provides a bespoke Andalusian experience. The location next to the beautiful Montes de Malaga makes it an ideal site for relaxed education and discovering the beauty of nature: walking, bird-watching, nature photography, as well as an introduction to the local industries such as beekeeping, wine appreciation, olive-oil production, together with other activities such as regional cookery, flamenco dancing and musicianship Experiences from a slowly disappearing rural lifestyle with centuries of culture and heritage. This part of Spain is a melting part of cultures. The west of the property has Catholic imagery and icons whilst the east references the Moorish traditions with intricate Arabian patterns. To the west we have created terraces of olives and almonds, to the south a stunning walk lined by statues of 20 Saints protect and guide the visitor down to a 100 year old Spanish Oak. Throughout the gardens an exhibition of sculptures, large and small, allow local artists to exhibit their works, so there is always something new to discover. Two wings run north-south either side of a large courtyard paved in Spanish granite. The benefits of the highest environmental design standards is evident throughout. On the east side are five bedrooms, each with a tiled bathroom. The interiors are modern with Spanish oak floors. The bedrooms open out onto private and discreet east-facing breakfast terraces. There is satellite TV, HiFi and WiFi in all the rooms. On the west side a large open-plan space has kitchen, dining and relaxation spaces. All rainwater is filtered and recycled throughout the property. The building avoids carbon-heavy air conditioning and uses naturally ventilating breezes throughout. There is a wood-burning stove for the pruned olive tree braches for heating inside and a fire pit outside. The property is entirely solar powered – 100m2 of solar panels mounted on the roof generate electricity and heat the swimming pool – ensuring crucially important low energy consumption. Shower and WC water is filtered and Reused to water the gardens. All rooms have underfloor heating and cooling sourced from an underground heat pump. The layout of Jardin al Andalus allows enjoyment of the 360 degree panorama. The bedroom terraces face east taking advantage of the rising sun allowing breakfast as the sun breaks over the hills to the east. The courtyard allows escape from the wind and the sun throughout the day. In the evening the west terrace allows stunning views of the Sierra Nevada and a chance to witness the sunset. Jardin al Andalus is designed as a Moroccan Fort at the top of a hill. From a distance it looks impenetrable and uninviting but once the huge steel doors are open it is welcoming and friendly. It is a model for sustainable construction and a new concept in educational tourism designated as a School of Nature in a wonderful site of special significance.