". . . Padre Aviles is one of the quietest, remotest and most relaxing spots in Andalucia, up in the hills 20 minutes from Malaga - and only half an hour from the airport. It's a converted 17th-century convent steeped in history. And behind its walls lie two excellently equipped and spacious apartments, each with its own front door and private terrace [Please note We've added our stables apartments since this article was written].
From one you slip straight out through French windows to the pool. Rooms have a nautical bent; the owners are super-keen sailors. And ideal hosts, very much around should you need them. Everything is shipshape: bedrooms light and airy, bedding crisp and white, mattresses orthopaedic; bathrooms have decent sinks and pretty mosaics; the cabin-style kitchen-diners have immaculate white sofas.
Families will not want to leave: there are two separate play areas, tennis courts, hammocks and a big pool. Take a well-worn path round the 180-acre estate scattered with olive and almond trees, or make for the national park just up the road. Views out to sea are awesome; on a clear day you can see Africa"

". . . a wonderful relaxing holiday in such a perfect setting with such perfect hosts. Absolutely brilliant. As soon as we get back we will be booking a date for next year. Thanks for everything, even with 2 lively boys we had a relaxing, enjoyable 2 weeks- Bliss!!"

"Set in a 17th-century convent overlooking Malaga, this tranche of self-catering apartments is worth investigating if you wish to dip in and out of the Costa. It's a 10-minute drive from civilisation, with pools, toys and tennis courts on hand (the owners have three young girls)"

". . . in a fantastic setting. Accommodation great and made to feel really welcome. Will definitely recommend"

"The 17th-century former convent has recently converted its stables into villas adding to its range of luxurious baby-friendly apartments. The resort has two swimming pools, tennis courts and loads of play equipment. All the toddler essentials, from plastic plates to proper cots, are available and the English owners offer a personal service, from pre-arrival food shops to arranging babysitting. It is located in one of Andalucia's most relaxing spots, a short drive from the beach"

". . . perched high in the hills above Malaga with views of limitless Mediterranean. You feel you are swimming on top of the world. We loved the typical style of the buildings, and the wonderful pool. It has been for us a great introduction to Spain and David and Claire have been extremely relaxed hosts. We are sad to leave and would love to come back. Adios"

"Claire and David, after years of sailing the world's oceans, decided to return to terra firma in the country where Claire spent much of her childhood. It's easy to see why they should have fallen for this old bougainvillea-clad farmhouse that sits proudly on a bluff with amazing panoramic views down the coastal strip and the glittering sea (those passing yachts must pull a few heart strings!).
In one wing of this ancient lagar where Olives were once milled they have created two enormous guest apartments and have recently added a further five just across the way from the original farmhouse. All are ideal for couples or families. Their decor is uncluttered with Casablanca fans to take the edge off the summer heat, wood burning stoves for those colder months and all you need for self catering. There is an enormous pool, and just beneath it, two tennis courts where a coach can come up and put you through your paces if you are having problems with getting that forehand right.
But Padre Aviles comes into its own right at night when the silence is all enveloping and the coastal lights twinkle far below. Claire and David are easy, immensely affable hosts, always there to help whilst being mindful of your intimacy. And it's refreshing to meet a couple who, with a young family of their own, enjoy rather than tolerate other couples with kids"

"The attractive pictures on the internet and the good facilities for little children made us decide to spend a week here. We did not, however expect to stay in such a wonderful and spectacular place. Pictures just can't tell you what it is like to be here. Thanks for the hospitality, also your daughters (who made a great impression on ours) and all the best with this lovely venture"

". . . at Padres Aviles. The apartment was lovely with a great view. It is in such a peaceful location and the views are stunning. We traveled with out 18month old son who absolutely loved the place with its beautiful warm pool and toys galore. I would recommend this to anybody who wants to get away and enjoy some peace and quiet whilst being within driving distance of the vibrant beachfront and city of Malaga. Great holiday and great hosts!

"Here again, our third visit, this time with Max for his first holiday. By now we slip into our Padre Aviles holiday mode as we climb the hill for the first time and everything is wonderfully easy, even with three kids in toe. A BIG thank you once again, to you all and we look forward to our return"