This is a holiday centre like no other, nestled among spectacular mountains in enclosed gardens. Almost all visitors comment upon its harmony, beauty and ambience. Set in the Sierra Nevada region of Spain, Cortijo Romero (CR) boasts the sunniest climate in Europe.

CR guests usually want something different to conventional holidays – a bit deeper, more authentic, personal and meaningful. Almost all want to be in a glorious natural environment, connecting with like-minded people. They wish to widen their horizons, learn more about themselves and others, acquire new skills, explore new possibilities, solve life problems or find a new direction. Many have demanding jobs and need time to de-stress and refresh and some are going through a transition in their lives.

This is a place to be nurtured and refreshed ~ Find new friends and a deeper sense of yourself ~ Drop the roles, the status games and having to look good ~ Try things you’ve never done before and have some enjoyable surprises ~ Develop more confidence ~ Feel more able to take risks and be better able to go after your dreams.

There are a diverse range of workshops available at CR and I attended one entitled ‘Riding the Winds of Change’ presented by facilitator Judi Ledward. Made up of sixteen participants, the group came together each day to explore ways to create the life they truly desired, using play, practical exercises, meditations and group-work.

Judi is an extremely skilled workshop leader with a wealth of experience and it was fascinating to watch her leading the group. She gave everyone the opportunity to work with the support of the group, although there was certainly no pressure to do so. I sensed those that chose to do so benefited enormously from the process, as did many of the other group members.

The CR staff are extremely helpful and friendly and many guests return here year after year, some claiming it’s like a second home to them. Participants are generally solo travellers and are also very friendly. Special moments on this holiday included outdoor morning yoga overlooking the mountains, inspiring conversations sitting under the stars at night and one rather amazing chocolate cake!

The food at CR is vegetarian and is exceptional. It’s prepared using local and organic produce where possible.

The aim of spending time at CR is to give yourself a true holiday – many say it is the best of their life – where you take back far more than a suntan and souvenirs.

Listen to some of the Cortijo Romero workshop leaders talking about their workshops

Click on the orange play button below to listen to Malcom Stern talking about his workshop ‘The Courage to Change’

Click on the green play button below to listen to Alison Goldie talking about her workshop ‘Reasons to be cheerful – Staying Sane in a Mad World’

Click on the purple play button below to listen to Jan Day talking about her workshop ‘Being Man – Being Woman’

Click here to visit Cortijo Romero’s website