Monasterio de San Francisco

This is a wonderful discovery! A real oasis of calm framed by lovely sensitively restored architecture and gardens. A fabulous spot to rest and relax in the heat and enjoy a swim in the long pool while contemplating the monastery building and the orange trees. Early morning swims rolled into substantial breakfasts and healthy lunches with vegetables from the restored monastery garden (which I had witnessed being picked during my morning swims) . A great place to retreat from a busy life and shut yourself away enclosed within the monastery walls and patios for a few days to disconnect and recharge batteries. I didn't leave the monastery complex for 4 days! The whole place exudes simplicity and quiet good taste, but my favourites were the 15th century red patio with a lush green central topiary garden, such an appealing place to relax and have a coffee, and the dining room, such an elegant and impressive historic room, made very relaxing by the jazz soundtrack and the garden views of flowers and trees. Authentic food from Cordoba and Andalusia, everything homemade and using ingredients from the garden as much as possible. An exceptionally good restaurant for vegetarians, which can be hard to find in Andalucía. I will return for sure and bring others too to share the peaceful almost meditative experience. Great location to recharge batteries between city visits in Seville and Córdoba or to combine with a visit to the coast in Cadiz, all of which are easily accessible by train. If you are a fan of Paradors in Spain, the Monasterio is like a smaller version with a more personal touch because your hosts are the family who have owned the building for over 200 years. Something for people who want an authentic off the beaten track experience and something so different from a 'normal' 4-star hotel.

This old monastery is sooo peaceful and recharging! We instantly felt at home and had the best time ever here! Thanks also to the amazing staff that was not only most friendly but also considerate and always ahead of what we could’ve wished for! 🤩

Everything! Staff were very friendly and accommodating; room was very clean and spacious with great shower, ac and comfortable big bed. We had lunch and dinner and the food was excellent, including breakfast. Fantastic swimming pool and check out at 12 meant we could have a late morning swim. Dogs were provided with a bed, bowl and bag of treats. As soon as you settle in you feel instantly relaxed and free to wonder around. It’s like staying in a mini museum.

The hotel was amazing and the lady on the front desk was so lovely and was very helpful we only stayed for one evening but would definitely go back.

Beautiful setting- between Cordoba and Seville. Such a lovely, unique place to stay- the dinner and breakfast was great.