“Cortijo los lobos has became a retreat for us where we really can get rid of the feeling of stress and rush. This was our third family holiday at the beautiful farm in Villanueva del Trabuco. The surroundings are magnificient. It is peaceful and quiet but still only a one hour drive to Malaga, and many other places to visit. The apartments as well as all the patios and the pool area are absolutely lovely. In the atmosphere there is in my opinion something magical. Riding with the calm and well-kept horses either early in the morning or later in the evening - when it is not too hot - and admiring the spectacular mountain views at the same time is amazing. It is maybe the incredible beauty of the place together with all the lovely animals that makes it an unbeaten combo.
The owners are great hosts and make you feel very comfortable. They are fabulous cooks too; we had a Greek, Italian, Mexican and Spanish nights with many delicious meals served with very good wines. You can cook your own meals if you wish, the apartments have all the kitchen utensils needed. This time we stayed in the farmhouse that was charming. The two bedrooms were in their own floors and had their own bathrooms. There was a big living room with a beautiful fireplace. Our daughter had a friend with her and the girls got to learn how to ride with just a neck rope. They swam for hours and enjoyed the sun and pleasant companion of the animals. For us it is very important that the animals are well-kept. At this farm they are really taken care of with a big heart. As are all the guests too.”
“My friend and I had a 5 day holiday at the Cortijo Los Lobos and are so pleased to have chosen it. Our reason for deciding this particular cortijo was the ethical horsemanship, June & Clive did not disappoint, June explained that the horses are only ridden in walk now for several genuine reasons and to put the horses health and happiness first. We completely understood this, admire their ethos and respect their decision. We very much enjoyed the rides, on well behaved, bitless horses, through the tranquil countryside. We also walked as leads for an American family with young children, which was alot of fun.
The cortijo itself is beautifully maintained and offers cosy accommodation with a family feel, but equally, if you want some solitude, it is not hard to find a quiet spot. Our apartment was well equipped with very thick walls which kept any noise or light out, we slept for 11hrs one night! June is a fantastic cook and we dined with other guests in the evenings, we met some lovely people, June also catered for my dairy free diet deliciously. All in all this was a fantastic holiday, it was value for money and it was very relaxing. I feel refreshed and will definitely be returning for more.”
"Having just returned from my 2nd time here this year, I would highly recommend it to anyone who cares deeply about animals. June and Clive are deeply committed to the lives of their animals. I have just completed a barefoot trimming course which was amazing and so informative. Both of the professional trimmers concluded that the hooves of all the horses are in excellent condition and have been well maintained by Clive and June. The horses are all so well looked after, June and Clive do an amazing job and work tirelessly to ensure that all of their animals are well cared for.
The riding is at a time and a pace to suit the horses, there is no riding in the hottest part of the day which would be so unfair on the horses. The rides are amazing as is the scenery. I can't recommend it enough, but if it's cantering around the countryside that's wanted then this isn't the place, the welfare of the horses is priority, as it should be. The welcome and hospitality received is fantastic, the food and the accommodation is 5 star. I really can't rate it highly enough."
"We stayed this time in El Establo and the first time in El Granero and we have found them equally as comfortable and charming. The private courtyards and the outside barbecues make it so easy to spend the majority of our time outside, enjoying the scenery, the weather and the many pets. The pool was once again quiet, private and very refreshing.
As before we rode almost every day on June and Clive's gentle ponies/horses and thoroughly enjoyed our quiet trips up and down the mountain and through the olive groves. The love and care that is shown to these beautiful animals only added to our enjoyment. If you want to go tearing along then this is not the place for you but if you are a genuine animal lover then you couldn't find a better place to ride."
"When an American comes back to stay at the same place in Spain three times, it must be special."
"This lovely small resort nestled into the hills north of Malaga keeps me returning. The secret of Cortijo Los Lobos’ appeal is its fabulous setting and its charming hosts. They have thought of everything to provide a relaxing and contented holiday. Each accommodation has a convenient kitchen - or you can have your meals provided. The first time I stayed, I enjoyed full catering, and June and Clive are wonderful cooks. Her paella nights are legendary. The tranquil countryside around this lovely inn is a great place to enjoy long walks. Her horses are willing and gentle for any rider. She has rescued many from abusive or neglectful situations and they give back to their riders the kindness and understanding they have received. The horseback or walking rambles through the hills are truly restorative.
Spring is my favorite time to come now, because of June’s garden and the wildflowers, but a January visit provided ample sunshine - a great break from a wet, gloomy winter. Even when there are showers, the changing dramatic cloud-scapes are breath-taking. I will return. Cortijo Los Lobos also makes a wonderful base for day trips. I especially recommend a circle drive to Zahara de la Sierra and Ronda in the spring. Antequera and Granada are near, as is the Mediterranean. Writing this has made me start thinking about my next visit... hmmm."
