SPANISH CAVE HOLIDAYS

Spanish cave holidays offer a unique insight into rural Andalucia, if you are planning a Spanish holiday and need to get away from it all, experience the ‘real Spain’ and relax then we can offer the perfect solution through two outstanding and highly recommended Spanish cave houses on the outskirts of Orce village. Situated in the sleepy rural hamlet of Fuente Nueva you can enjoy rural Andalucia at it most spectacular and experience modern day yet traditional Spanish cave living in the Granada region. Your cave accommodation is only a short walk away from annually excavated prehistoric ‘digs’ for which the area is most famous, nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Umbria mountains you can enjoy spectacular views, nature, relaxation or take inspiration from the natural surroundings, local people or historic places of interest.

At Orce Serrano Hams we have two fabulous Spanish cave houses to choose from, both are unique, in different locations and represent a true aspect of cave living in Andalucia with all the modern day facilities you would expect. If you are looking for a Spanish holiday with a difference, somewhere to relax and experience a true piece of rural Andalucia then why not consider the cave house?

The hamlet of Fuente Nueva lies 7km on the outskirts of Orce village which has all amenities including shops, banks, bars, restaurants, medical center and tourist office. The area is of high prehistoric importance with archeological digs regularly being excavated where fossils of mammoths and sabre tooth tigers are found – most of which can be seen in Orce museum The hamlet itself is very rural surrounded by wooded hillside of the Sierra de Umbria, the town of Maria is situated 25km East and holds a large market every Sunday. The village of Orce is to the West neighbouring the whitewashed village of Galera a further 10km down the road and the larger town of Huescar 25km away.

This area of the Altiplano is beautifully picturesque with protected green belt land, lakes and other areas of interest. You can discover outdoor eating areas within the nearby woodland, old flint mines and hilltop watchtowers. Orce village also has an outdoor pool or ‘Fuencaliente’ from a natural spring where you can swim with the fish and enjoy a light lunch at the accompanying restaurant.

CUEVA SANTA MARIA - An Amazing and Unique Holiday Experience

Cueva Santa Maria, is Self-Catering Holiday Accommodation with the WOW factor. It has its own private pool and will sleep up to six comfortably. Set, in the tranquil and peaceful hamlet of Fuente Nueva, in Real and unspoilt Spain. This amazing and unique holiday accommodation is an ecologically friendly Cave House. For those, that have not heard of these amazing dwellings, they really do have the comfort and facilities of any modern habitation. We are confident, that you will enjoy holidaying, in this very traditional, yet unique Spanish dwelling. Cueva Santa Maria has outstanding and uninterrupted views of the local country side. The natural surroundings are simply breathtaking. From the grounds of your holiday accommodation,( be that the pool, sun-deck or terrace), you can take in and enjoy, the dramatic contrast between the Mountain Range, the pine forests, the dry flat-lands and the pastoral planes, (where prehistoric animals once grazed). This special holiday accommodation is situated on the side of what was once, a vast prehistoric lake, where saber tooth tigers, mammoths, rhinoceros, buffalo, bear and not least man came to drink. Fuente Nueva, is certainly a place of great paleontological and archaeological interest.  Many of the remains of these magnificent pre-historic animals can be viewed, in the Museum of Prehistory, in the nearby village of Orce. One of the archaeological digs, where the remains of a saber tooth tiger were found, is but a short walk from your holiday home.

Cueva Santa Maria guests can enjoy the delights of the local village of Orce. Orce is a traditional Spanish village, whose historic heritage is very apparent. It is made up of quaint streets and typically Spanish houses, with medieval architecture being particularly prevalent. The village also has a number of welcoming and traditionally Spanish bars and restaurants, which offer free tapes with drinks. As is the way with the Southern Spanish, local cooking and traditions are taken seriously. The renowned Segureno Lamb, is one of the best dishes to try out in Orce For a small village there is an abundance of sightseeing opportunities, with two historic palaces, a castle and a museum. This wonderful village also has a wealth of amenities, including supermarkets, butchers, banks, green grocers, fish mongers and freshwater swimming pool. There is a remarkable range of activities to match the interests of all visitors and ages all year round. Orce is also close to no less than four lakes and three National parks providing exceptional sight seeing and photographic opportunities.

CUEVA SANTA MARIA FACILITIES IN BRIEF

	Cueva Santa Maria has been modernised to a high standard throughout and has its own private outdoor pool, (for the exclusive use, of Santa Maria Guests). Beach towels, ice box, parasol and deck chairs are all supplied for days out. The cave has ecologically friendly natural air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, large luxury bathroom, (with his and her sinks), Satellite TV and DVD with DVD film library. You can also enjoy a large selection of books to read, board games and internet access (on request). A BBQ is also available for outdoor cooking and for the winter months log fire with free winter logs. English/Spanish speaking representatives are available on arrival and throughout your stay if required. An evening pick up and drop of service to and from Orce village is also available. email enquiries to info@orceserranohams.com Check availability >>>
	Cooking at Cueva Santa Maria: Enjoy Spanish paella? Want to discover real Spanish tapas? At Cueva Santa Maria we offer Spanish paella demonstrations as well as tapas tasting classes, all demo’s are very much ‘hands on’ so if you love cooking and are looking to get involved in cooking paella and tapas outdoors over the open fire then our cooking demonstrations are right up your street! Paella cooking classed start from €69.00 for the whole family and tapas cooking from €22.00 per person. Cooking afternoons are held by Gayle and Iain.

CUEVA LA HORNACINA

Cueva La Hornacina offers idyllic Spanish cave accommodation in the heart of the Andalucian countryside. Ideal for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy a stress free cave holiday in ‘real Spain’. We are pleased to be able to offer this unique Spanish accommodation to groups of up to eight people, situated in a rural location on its own extensive land this cave house is suitable for families or groups who are looking for the peace and tranquility of traditional Andalucia. A true rural Spanish retreat in every sense of the word Cueva La Hornacina is perfect for those is search of tranquility but to still be close to all the amenities of the nearby village. Cueva La Hornacina is in a truly wonderful spot, quiet, tranquil and secluded, allowing guests to fully enjoy the countryside and surrounding mountain ranges. Bookings are available for weekends and weekly stays.

SPECIAL OFFER! ~ 7 NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 5 ~

Interior:

The cave has four double bedrooms, large kitchen, living room and bathroom with shower. Tastefully decorated in traditional style the cave is very spacious, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. There is a large fireplace for which wood is supplied and all the modern facilities you would expect including TV and DVD. The fully equipped kitchen is light and spacious with large eating area and there is also a washing machine. Upon entering the cave you are met by a bright, airy living room with typically Spanish features, the cave is fresh during the hot summer months allowing you to escape the midday sun for a siesta or a quiet read by the window seat. Bedrooms are large and benefit from natural light from the front of the cave, cool but warmly welcoming and tastefully fitted with Andalucian decor.

Exterior:

Sitting on 4500 square meters of land the views over the Sierra de Maria mountain range are spectacular with vivid sunsets. Access is good by track and there is a large carport on the land within established gardens complete with furniture. The cave also boasts a large and very welcoming swimming pool (8x4 meters) in its own grounds surrounded by trees and shrubbery, an ideal eating area by the pool with shaded areas and ample seating. The pool area and grounds are lit at night by solar power and should your stay be at the right time you watch the spectacular full moon rise from behind the mountain range. There is a large graveled patio area immediately outside the cave with parking for up to four cars.

Prices & Information:

Prices include wood for the fire, complete bathroom and kitchen equipment including towels. You will be met by Gayle (English) who will show you around and explain everything about the cave and all of the amenities it has including boiler/fire etc. Gayle will also be available should you need anything during your stay.

Minimum stays:
At Christmas and Easter time, the minimum stay is four nights. In August it is 7 nights.

Payment terms:
Upon booking, 30% of the balance must be paid.
Upon arrival the balance must be paid along with an additional €150 euros which will be returned when you leave.
A photocopy of your passport or NIE must also be presented when booking.

General Conditions:
Arrival is usually required between the hours of 4 and 8pm. If this is not possible, please advise us beforehand.
Departure is usually required by 12 noon although alternate arrangements can be made.

Sorry no pets.

Gallery:

Cueva La Hornacina Enquiries >>>

The village of Orce (pronounced “Or-thay”) is situated in the north east corner of the Granada province near the Almeria border. An idyllic situation for anyone in search of “real Andalucia” Orce is your typical rural Spanish village with breath taking scenery. As one of the 5 main villages in the region the area is known as the Altiplano de Granada which is 3000 feet above sea level.

Orce is a small village with only 1300 inhabitants including those from the surrounding hamlets of Fuente Nueva and Venta Micena, although small the village has significant historical heritage, archaeological digs have produced the remains of prehistoric animals as well as the much discussed “Hombre de Orce” or Orce man – a skull fragment said to be the oldest ever found.

Cave living:
		Cave Dwellings: The area is famous for its cave dwellings, hewn from the rock hundreds of years ago caves have recently become very popular and attract tourists from all over the world. Traditionally for the poor, cave houses have dispensed with this reputation and are now attractive eco homes with all the amenities you would expect in a conventional home. You can find numerous cave B&B’s and self catering holidays in the area. As unique dwellings caves provide the ideal rural Spanish holiday, they hold a relatively constant temperature so are cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Expect a wood burning stove, silence indoors and a thoroughly good nights sleep!
	Tradition & Fiesta: Visit Orce and you will discover a true Spanish way of life, residents still enjoy siestas in the afternoons, a relaxed approach to life means nothing gets done in a hurry and late night eating with friends and family is the norm. There are many fiestas in the area and Orce is no exception, visit in February and enjoy “San Sebastian” where free beef casserole is available as well as singing and dancing. Much effort is made by the locals to dress up along with the children for such events, a real piece of Spain to witness, enjoy or even take part in. On the Thursday before Ash Wednesday local villagers make Spanish omelette or “tortilla” the whole family then makes a trip to the surrounding woods where they eat the tortilla – a picnic for the villagers and still enjoyed by most residents today. The month of May sees the Day of the Cross when villagers intricately decorate crosses which are very impressive, the crosses are then displayed around the village and inside peoples homes and caves. Come to Orce at Christmas time and you will experience “Los Inocentes”, this is the equivalent to April fools day in the UK, a favourite day for the younger generation of Orce where they dress as police and other people of authority, handing out fines to people in the street and drivers. All good fun but it pays to have a pocketful of change if you venture into the village!

Things to do:
	Although a sleepy Andalucian village there is still a large range of things to do and places to see. A leisurely stroll around the village is always interesting, as is a walk in the nearby campo or surrounding woodland. Visitors can discover Orce museum which is home to ancient relics and fossils from the nearby digs, visit any one of three churches or the palace in the heart of the village. On the outskirts of Orce you can enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool which is a natural spring and always quite warm, the pool is full of fish and in the summer you can enjoy a drink and some tapas from the adjacent restaurant. There are of course the usual eating establishments all of which serve free tapas with a glass of wine or beer. Local lamb (cordero segureno) is served as a speciality in most restaurants, the lamb is unique to the area and is recognised for its supreme quality. For a later night you can visit one of the two disco bars in the village.

Gastronomy:
		Many dishes in the region are influenced by the Moors yet Orce enjoys delicious but simple food. The “Cordero Segureno” mentioned above is the real local speciality, served in most local restaurants, the favourite being “asado de cordero”. This dish is quite an impressive affair with the lamb being slow cooked for hours in a traditional bakers oven. The dish consists of lamb steaks, hocks and ribs all cooked with the finest olive oil, green peppers, garlic and potatoes, the lamb is then served on the same tray direct from the oven, center of the table for everyone to dig in. Cured meats are also in a class of their own from sausages, chorizo, pork tenderloins, serrano hams and traditionally made black pudding which is a real delight. Many gardens in the village will boast carefully tended to rows of potatoes, pumpkins, chard, various beans and onions. You can also experience a range of home grown herbs such as thyme, rosemary, parsley and garlic, much of which has been home grown by local bar owners and grocers to either sell or to add flavour to their “Menu del dia” (dish of the day). Fig trees are abundant in the area as are almonds, pears, peach and cherry.

Climate:
	Orce and the surrounding hamlets are 978 meters above sea level, (approximately 3000ft) the air is fresh, clean and pleasant. Summer sees a barren yet intrigueingly beautiful landscape with campo farmland meeting the tree lined mountains of the nearby “sierras”. Temperatures soar into the low 40’s in July and August at midday but late afternoon and evenings are very pleasant. High temperatures of course are not a problem whilst staying in a cave as they remain comfortably cool underground. Things begin to cool down after September and come the winter you can experience the cool, crisp mountain air. Mountains are snowcapped producing spectacular views and with frosty mornings the winter is dry and fresh. The region has very little rainfall but when it comes it comes… short, sharp thunderstorms which both clear the air and freshen up the garden. February and March see an array of colour as the almond trees blossom coating the campo in a blanket of white. Later, in April the countryside puts on a real show of wild flowers and deep reds from poppies, the photographers dream.

History:
		Over the past century Orce has witnessed many changes. In the early part of the century total inhabitants marginally exceeded 4,100, however in 1917 the flu epidemic decimated the village. Numbers increased to a record high of 4500 inhabitants by 1950 but there is no doubt that the period preceeding the second world war were times of extreme poverty. In 1964 Orce and its surrounding hamlets suffered from a virulent earthquake – evidence of this can still be seen today in older caves with cracked fire places many of which have been left as a “souvenier” of the day the ground shook. 1973 saw Orce castle gain recognition of historical importance and at the same time the village saw running water installed, in 1975 the Franco dictatorship comes to an end. In the late 1970’s many residents began to find vineyard work in the south of France, this became an important source of income and as such, intrigued with the rural area many French residents began to buy old Spanish caves most of which are still owned today either as full time residence or holiday homes. In 1982 the discovery of a skull fragment in Venta Micena put Orce on the map, now known as “Orce Man” the fragment was and still is controversially described as the oldest human ancestoral artifact found to date within Europe. At the turn of the last century inhabitants numbered 1500. Visiting Orce is like a trip back in time and not just because of its archealogical discoveries.

If you think that a unique and relaxed cave holiday in the heart of Andalucia may
be for you then please do not hesitate to drop us an email to discover more.

Email enquiries info@orceserranohams.com

Please note that all cave accommodation is booked and arranged under the conditions of the cave owners themsleves.