Cortijo

A cortijo is the Andalusian equivalent of a Mexican hacienda, a large rural estate house in southern Spain, traditionally devoted to raising fighting bulls, Andalusian horses, or growing olives. The buildings are typically whitewashed, with terracotta roofs, a central service courtyard, and an attached chapel. They look more austere than Mexican haciendas, less ornamented, more about thick walls and shade. As luxury hotels: Cortijo del Marqués near Granada, Finca Cortesin in Casares (one of Europe's best golf resorts), Hospes Palacio de los Patos. Many are equestrian-focused, so guests can ride pure-blood Spanish horses across olive groves at dawn. Quiet luxury, no neon.