Know that feeling? Outside it’s grey, cold and miserable, and you’re dreaming of sunshine and warmth? Whilst winter blues reign at home, we’re basking in the warming rays of the Andalusian winter sun here at Cortijo El Sarmiento. With a café con leche in hand and a heartfelt “¡Buenos días!”, we start each day together – and you’ll see, by breakfast time, thoughts of winter back home will have melted away!
Welcome to Your Winter Haven
With us, you won’t find an anonymous holiday accommodation, but rather your personal home under the Spanish sun. As your hosts, we, Yvonne and Carsten, are here for you from morning till evening – whether for insider tips over breakfast, an impromptu wine tasting in the afternoon, or the perfect restaurant recommendation for the evening. In our lovingly restored Cortijo, a traditional Casa Rural, you’ll find an atmosphere just like staying with good friends.
Experience the Winter Magic of Andalusia
“Isn’t it cold there in winter too?” – We often hear this question and can’t help but smile. Whilst the heating’s on full blast back in Northern Europe, we enjoy mild temperatures of 18°C during the day and crystal-clear light. Perfect for a dip in our heated pool (yes, we actually have one of the few heated pools in the region!) or a relaxed walk through the Sierra Cabrera. And if it does get a bit chilly? Then our sauna awaits you! And yes, we have central heating in the rooms too 😉
Your Day at Our Cortijo
The sun wakes you in one of our seven individual rooms. Over a leisurely breakfast – by the way, Carsten’s scrambled eggs are always freshly prepared, using real eggs and for reasons unknown to us, they’ve become truly legendary with our guests! – we’ll plan your day together. Perhaps you fancy:
-
A walk to Carsten's favourite viewpoint
(insider tip: the sunset there is unbeatable!) -
A wine tasting with sommelier Yvonne
(warning: her enthusiasm for Spanish wines is rather infectious!) - A day at our wonderfully empty beaches
- A massage in our small and cosy wellness area
- Or simply a good book by the pool
Yvonne’s Culinary Adventures
Winter is the time for cosy pleasures, and as a sommelier, I know all the best spots in the region. Let me take you:- To hidden tapas bars where the locals eat
- To small bodegas for a personal wine tasting
- To traditional olive oil mills
- Or to one of our favourite restaurants, where Fatima works her Moroccan culinary magic
Carsten’s Insider Guide
As the ‘walking Wikipedia’ of the region (as our guests like to joke), Carsten knows every corner of our surroundings. His tips will lead you to:- Hidden hiking trails you won't find in any guidebook
- The most beautiful photo spots for your perfect holiday snap
- His favourite cafés serving the best café con leche and, of course, delicious cake
- Local markets where you'll experience the real Andalusia
Active Days in Andalusia’s Golden Winter
Winter in Mojácar is actually the secret high season for active holidaymakers – and for good reason! With temperatures around 18°C in the shade (that’s mid-twenties in the sun), crystal-clear air and fantastic views stretching all the way to Sierra Maria, you’ve got perfect conditions for unforgettable outdoor experiences.Hiking in the Sierra de los Filabres
The mountains are calling! The Sierra de los Filabres shows its most beautiful side in winter. Carsten has put together the loveliest routes for you:- The "Mojácar Mañana Trail" - an easy morning path with sea views (2 hours)
- The "Ruta de los Piratas" to historic watchtowers (3-4 hours)
- The challenging "Cabrera Crown Walk" with 360-degree panorama (5-6 hours)
Carsten’s tip:
“Don’t forget your camera – the winter air ensures pin-sharp photos right to the horizon!”
Cycling Like the Pros
Did you know that many professional cyclists train here in winter? No wonder, as the combination of mild climate and varied routes is unique:- Relaxed coastal routes along the Mediterranean
- Sporty mountain tours in the surrounding Sierras
- Historic routes through the white villages
A Motorcyclist’s Paradise
For motorcycle enthusiasts, our region is absolute heaven – especially in winter:- Perfectly maintained serpentine roads through the surrounding mountains
- Stunning coastal roads with sea views
- Wonderful stops in the white mountain villages
- Year-round dry roads and excellent visibility
- Secure parking for your motorcycle at our Cortijo
Carsten’s tip:
“If you fancy really opening up the throttle, tackling exciting lefts and rights, and letting your horsepower loose on long straights, you should definitely plan a visit to Circuit de Almeria! And the best part? After an action-packed day, you can unwind by our fireplace.”
Year-Round Golf
Four first-class golf courses in the vicinity are waiting for you. Marina Golf Mojácar, just 5 minutes away, offers:- 18-hole championship course
- Driving Range
- Golf school for all levels
Beach Walks and Sea Air
Winter is the perfect time for extended beach walks. The usually popular beaches are now almost entirely yours:
- Yoga sessions, Qi-Gong and Pilates by the sea
- Collecting shells and stones in secluded coves
- Bird watching in the coastal lagoons or mountains
- Photography during golden sunsets
Discovering Culture and History
The pleasant temperatures make cultural explorations particularly enjoyable:- Guided tours through Moorish-influenced Mojácar
- Visits to the historic fortress
- Discovery of hidden chapels and hermitages
- Local art galleries and craft shops
- Authentic performances at the region's best Tablao de Flamenco
Indoor Activities for Cooler Days
Though it rarely happens – we’re well prepared for the few cooler days:- Visit to the province's most renowned olive mill with special tasting
- Wine or sherry tastings with Yvonne
- Marvel at the world's largest geode
- Relaxing massage and wellness treatments
What Our Winter Guests Say
"Finally, a winter without the winter blues! The heated pool was our highlight – where else can you swim in Europe in January? Yvonne and Carsten, you're simply perfect hosts!"
Maria and Thomas from Hamburg, January 2023
"What a lucky find! We wanted to escape the grey winter and found not just sunshine at the Cortijo, but wonderful new friends. The relaxed atmosphere and personal conversations over breakfast made our holiday truly special."
Barbara and Klaus from Vienna, March 2024
"As a photographer, I love the winter light in Andalusia. But what makes the stay truly unforgettable is the warmth with which Yvonne and Carsten welcome their guests. From the very first moment, you feel like you're staying with good friends."
Hilde from Antwerp, February 2024
"Carsten's exploration tips were worth their weight in gold. We discovered corners of Mojácar we'd never have found otherwise. And Yvonne's wine tasting wasn't just educational, it was incredibly fun!"
Sarah and Mike from London, November 2024
Sustainable Luxury in Harmony with Nature
Our Cortijo combines traditional Andalusian architecture with modern comfort. We place particular emphasis on sustainability:
- Solar energy for electricity and hot water
- Regional and seasonal produce
- Collaboration with local suppliers
- Resource-conscious water management
For more about sustainability, visit our blogpost about sustainable holidays.
The Perfect Base for Your Winter Escape
Cortijo El Sarmiento is the ideal spot for your winter holiday in Andalusia. Our peaceful location on the edge of Mojácar offers the perfect starting point for all the activities described. With our heated pool (26°C year-round) and sauna, you’ll enjoy maximum comfort even on cooler days.
In our individually furnished rooms, you’ll find not just central heating for cosy evenings, but also stunning mountain views. Our hearty breakfast will fuel you for your daily adventures, and in the evening, we’re happy to share our insider tips for the best restaurants in the region.
Particularly popular with our winter guests are the regular wine tastings with sommelier Yvonne and Carsten’s personally curated hiking routes. For cyclists and motorcyclists, we provide secure parking facilities, and golf enthusiasts can reach the nearest course in just 5 minutes.
Ready for your winter in the sun?
Then come join us in Mojácar – we’re looking forward to welcoming you!
