Review: Casa Rural Cortijo Los Lopez

Last week we were privileged to enjoy a stay of two nights at Casa Rural Cortijo Los Lopez, located just 12km from the Almería town of Huercal-Overa.

Located in the rural hamlet of Los Lopez, this beautifully restored farmhouse is a joy to spend time at. Its owner, Adrienne Ruiz, has poured gallons of her own blood, sweat and tears into renovating what was once practically a ruin, into a charming rural Bed & Breakfast nestled on the side of a stunning valley in the Almeriense countryside. 

I had visited before, for afternoon tea, but this time hubby and I enjoyed two nights without all our usual daily responsibilities – ah heaven!

Inside

We had rented the downstairs room which had its own front door, a large sleeping and sitting area, a private bathroom and a private terrace. It also came with free wifi.

It was immaculately decorated with the obligatory white walls and had pale blue accents. There were two large beds, bolted together (no risk of falling between the two during the night). There were also a thousand pillows and cushions decorating the bed (okay – maybe eight to ten) which looked lovely. 

There were also two bedside tables, two armchairs, a bookcase complete with books, a small table and a full size fridge. Plus of course tea/coffee making facilities. We were thrilled with the full size fridge as we were able to fill it with goodies for the barbecue (more on that later) and of course wine… lots of wine.

There were also various tools to ensure that those with mobility issues could enjoy their stay, such as handrails in the private bathroom.

Outside

On our private terrace was a table and chairs complete with a large parasol, two sun-loungers and also a cooking area complete with gas barbecue (brand new – we christened it!!) plus another dining area. 

The views are stunning from the south-facing terrace, allowing you to gaze down the valley. It was as gorgeous by night as it was by day. We just sat back and admired the views while sipping wine, eating, listening to the countryside sounds and of course putting the world to rights. 

There was a hot-tub (on the adjacent shared terrace), although we didn’t use it. There will also be a pool in situ very soon (Adrienne is closed for a month while this is all completed). This will enable you to have a dip at the same time as enjoying those gorgeous views. 

Breakfast

It is preferred that you order your breakfast choice the evening before. We opted for tostadas with tomato and jamón but there were plenty of other options available such as croissants, cooked breakfast etc. 

Access

There are three ways into the property, although we recommend just two of them. The first option is to park in the private car park at the front and then use the steps at the end to access. The second is from the rear of the property, which is for those with mobility issues. The third is up a gravel ramp, but this will likely be blocked off at some point as it’s pretty steep. Adrienne will advise you which is best when you book. 

About the owner

I already knew Adrienne and have done so for a few years now. She is a force of nature – and what she has achieved with Casa Rural Cortijo Los Lopez puts me to shame!

Like us, she adores dogs – and we were very happy to share our time with her three: Mutts (Standard Poodle), Jess (Golden Retriever) and Pepper (Podenco) – although of course she can block their access if someone arrives that prefers not to have fluffy faces coming to say “hello.”

There are also a couple of cats, although they are rather shy.

About the dogs

One of the biggest plus points about this place is how dog-friendly it is. Adrienne told us that she’s had all sizes and shapes come to stay so far… everything from a handbag sized chihuahua to a donkey sized beastie. She’s even had guests arrive with a large parrot!!

All three dogs are extremely well-behaved. No woofing or hassling… just friendly faces with waggy tails. Pepper the Podenco was especially gorgeous – with possibly the best ears ever on a dog!! Jess the Labrador was so sweet and liked nothing better than sitting by your side having ear and tummy tickles. We’ve never really been poodle fans but Mutts was so calm and collected – a proper gentleman. Apparently he is known to keep his distance… but he adopted us two very quickly: Dogs know Dog People eh. He’s an old fella now but very soppy.

Other goodies available

Food & Drink

How to book Casa Rural Cortijo Los Lopez

• Facebook
• Booking.com
• Website coming soon!

Casa Rural License number: CR/AL/00216

Product review details

We were kindly provided with our two nights at Casa Rural Cortijo los Lopez free of charge in return for an honest review. It was wonderful because we would have happily paid, but because Adrienne loves us so much and understands the reach of Spain Buddy… she treated us to a long overdue break from the office. At no point did she demand a glowing review… purely our honesty and feedback. Some feedback was provided during our stay but I have chosen to omit this from the review because it was amended immediately, or will be done during the next few weeks of her closed period (thereby irrelevant for future visitors).

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Elle Draper

Elle, along with Alan, is the owner of Spain Buddy and the busy web design business – Spain Web Design by Gandy-Draper.
Born a “Norverner”, she then spent most of her life “Dann Saff” before moving to Spain in 2006. Elle’s loves are Alan, the internet, dogs, good food, and dry white wine – although not necessarily in that order.