We spend a wonderful week on the Costa de la Luz, in the south of Spain, staying in a striking modern villa near Conil de la Frontera. This part of Andalusia feels like a secret corner of Europe—wild beaches, pine forests, whitewashed villages, and a strong sense of place. As a family of four with two teenagers (13 and 16), we’re always looking for a mix of comfort, freedom, and nature, and this spot is exactly that.

Villa Mas Tranquila sits tucked into the hillside above the ocean, with wide open views and total peace. The house itself is beautifully designed—minimalist but warm, modern but rooted in its surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling glass lets in the sunlight, and the view from the terrace makes it hard to leave. We eat outdoors most nights, make use of the large BBQ, and enjoy the saltwater pool—warmed though still a bit cool in spring, but lovely in the afternoon sun. There are surfboards to borrow and thoughtful touches everywhere—from high-end kitchenware to yoga mats.

Our home these days

Each room is bright and beautifully furnished, with soft linens, good beds and simple, natural materials. It’s a home that invites you to relax. The house is also extremely practical for families—plenty of space, great WiFi, a washing machine, and lots of places for everyone to unwind.

We explore the area on foot and discover one of the region’s best springtime walks: the flower trail. This time of year, the landscape is in full bloom. We take pictures of every different flower we see—poppies, lavender, wild rosemary—and along the way, we spot several griffon vultures circling above. These birds are native to the Sierra de Cádiz and glide effortlessly through the sky, some with wingspans over 2.5 metres. It’s one of those unexpected, wild moments that turns a walk into a memory.

During another coastal hike, Menno and our daughter spot a dolphin just offshore—leaping playfully through the waves. We stand still, completely amazed. No boats, no noise, just us and nature. It’s magical.

Angela and our daughter also go horseback riding with Picadero Fuente del Gallo, not far from the villa. They ride through the dunes on elegant Spanish stallions—strong, proud horses that are clearly well cared for. This is a ride for experienced riders only, but a fantastic way to connect with the landscape. Paco doesn’t speak much English but is clearly passionate about his animals and proud to show his riding skills. Andrea, who leads our ride, also speaks English and German and is a true professional. Riding on the beach isn’t allowed at the time of our visit, but even the dune ride is spectacular.

We spend a day in Cádiz, one of Europe’s oldest cities, founded by the Phoenicians over 3,000 years ago. The city feels timeless—waves crashing against old stone walls, narrow streets lined with faded pastel buildings, and a golden cathedral overlooking the harbour. We climb the bell tower for a panoramic view of the Atlantic and explore the shady squares, full of cafés and music. The kids enjoy the independence of wandering a bit on their own, discovering local shops and watching street performers.

Cadiz

This part of Andalusia—between Conil, Vejer de la Frontera, and Cádiz—has a unique charm. It’s less developed than the Costa del Sol, with wide open beaches, dramatic cliffs, and rolling countryside full of history. You feel the Moorish influence in the architecture, the food, the rhythm of life. It’s a place where everything slows down just enough to notice the details.

One week isn’t nearly enough. This is the kind of destination that stays with you long after you leave.

WOW

# That clean architectural design of our villa with sweeping sea views.
# Wild dolphins just offshore and vultures gliding overhead on the flower trail.
# The silence, the space, the sense of freedom.