Discover your own unique perspective of the Andalucian capital with a stay at La Verdecita, a stylish, 5-bedroom Al Andalus style riad, tucked away in a quiet lane in Seville’s evocative and romantic historic Jewish quarter, writes Andrew Forbes (@andrewaforbes)
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Alluring Seville
Once you arrive in the ancient old town of Seville, it’s impossible not to be embraced by the rich history of this Southern Spanish city. The Romans were amongst the first to make their mark in the area (in fact, two Emperors were born here); it was also an important kingdom during the Al Andalus period; and later of course, Seville was the epicentre of trade and wealth when Spain reached out to the Americas and built its Empire.
As a diverse, lively, contemporary capital, Seville epitomises the contradictory Andalucian lifestyle; both traditional & modern, gregarious & intimate, tranquil & lively. Each captivating street and orange blossom scented plaza reflect the city’s richly interwoven culture.
La Verdecita is part of that story. A fabulous historic property, a noble house with classic Andalucian light-filled atrium, that has been reimagined through thoughtful renovation and stylish interior design, into a thoroughly 21st century luxe vacation rental in the heart of Seville.
Inside La Verdecita
From the chic, private rooftop terrace, 5 stylish guestrooms, a secluded hot tub, to the understated aesthetic of the open plan ground floor, La Verdecita really makes an impact.
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A classic Andalucian house, much like a North African riad, the property has a light filled internal atrium, that reaches down from the glass ceiling to the signature dining space on the ground floor below. Here, to the right one finds a chef’s kitchen with professional range; whilst to the left is a charming salon, with a wood burning stove for cosy winter nights, and cool floor of handmade Moroccan tiles for warm summer days.
Take the stairs up and you reach the galleried landing. Here are 4 of the double guest rooms (the 5th double room with ensuite bathroom, is on the ground floor). Beds are super comfy and made up with upscale linens – here the quality is in the details.
There’s a suite too, with double French windows that open out onto the narrow pedestrian lane below.
The ensuite bathroom includes a sexy copper bath.
Bathroom amenities are by Temple Spa, rich is essential oil fragrances.
The overall aesthetic is Al Andalus and African Riad with accents of boho chic. It´s relaxed, welcoming and sophisticated.
Take the stairs up again and one reaches the intimate roof terrace with open-air bar and covered seating area. The space is filled with large potted plants. It’s a tempting place for enjoying an early morning coffee whilst listing to Seville wake from late night before.
Or come up here for an evening aperitif under the fairy lights. (Downstairs, in the American refrigerator, you find complimentary bottles of bubbles – delicious sparkling white from Seville winery, Bodegas Salado).
Hola Seville by Nicky
The creative flair behind this special home-from-home is Nicky Morris Goodman, a Brighton-based goldsmith who has been smitten by Seville. La Verdecita was her first project, an ambitious task to breathe new life into a magnificent old turn house.
Nicky is eager to share her love of Seville and La Verdecita is now available through her ‘Hola Seville’ business as a private holiday rental (for up to 10 guests); or as a venue for exclusive events.
Nicky explains, “Private vacation rentals from Hola Seville offer a sense of comfort and intimacy that allow us time and space to relax and reconnect. The timeless, ravishing beauty of Seville, the rich and passionate culture combined with open hearted and friendly Andalusian people”.
It’s true that of all my adventures, my most lasting travel memories are of moments shared with family or friends.
Staying at La Verdecita is a wonderful way to experience the magic of Seville with those you love, your extended family or a group of best friends.
What´s more there is a growing trend towards vacation rentals rather than staying at larger hotels, as guests can be assured of a safe and clean environment, that guests can retain control over. Choose to eat out, order in from the diverse range of restaurants in the city, or head out for tapas and fine dining. The choice is yours.
Outside La Verdecita
This urban oasis might cocoon you in tranquillity and style, but you´ll want to head out and enjoy one of Andalucía’s finest cities. From on trend neighbourhoods like the Alameda de Hércules (great for terrace tapas bars and late night cocktails); to the windy alleyways and orange blossom lined streets of old town Santa Cruz. Seville has an old school, traditional charm that fuses with the contemporary Andalucian energy of everyday life here.
Head through the Arenal neighbourhood to the river for a sunset boat trip; or continue to trendy Triana for some of the best Flamenco in town.
For history lovers, there is almost too much to take in, from the historic Archive of the Indias, detailing the Spanish Empire, during the city´s Golden Age, to the ancient UNESCO recognised Cathedral and La Giralda Moorish tower, and the Royal Alcazar Palace. If you feel like you are wandering through a set for Game of Thrones, well, you are – many scenes were filmed here.
There´s no need for your rental once in the city centre – you can wonder from designer boutiques to fine art and contemporary galleries within a leisurely morning, working up an appetite for a chilled glass of fino and some gourmet jamón ibérico tasty cured ham.
Information
Hola Seville promises ‘lovingly restored, beautiful spaces. Your home from home in Seville’.
In addition to the 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom La Verdecita, the collection includes El Mateo´, a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment in a high-ceiling turn of the century building with views of Seville’s cathedral. Nicky is also working on a new property – details will be published on the Hola Seville website:
Contact Details
Website: www.holaseville.com
Address: C. Mateos Gago, 9B, 2a derecha, Casco Antiguo, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
