In the southern Iberian peninsula, it has become easier than ever to connect with a slower, more traditional lifestyle through several new farm stays. In Extremadura, La Dehesa Don Pedro, which contains a traditional 19th-century farmhouse and stables, opened in 2022 just outside La Toma de Caballero hiking trail. Interiors—a neutral palette punctuated by colorfully upholstered furniture and languid palms—were designed by the Madrid-based studio Las2Mercedes, and the guest experience is as local as it gets: Meals, served on the large open-air terrace in the summer, show off the region’s distinctive produce, as well as jamón ibérico sourced from the black pigs
that seem to be perpetually rooting around the nearby fields. The family-run Frisones de Tentudia, which keeps black Friesian horses—the powerful, glossy breed popular among royal families since the 16th century—offers riding lessons and tours. Ceramics workshops and painters studios are common in the area.
After your visit, head to Andalusia for a few days in Seville at La Casa del Limonero, home to 14 lovingly renovated rooms brimming with artworks and curios. The boutique hotel, which occupies a former 15th-century palace that has been updated over the centuries, features Mudejar architecture, a colonnaded courtyard, and an azure-tiled outdoor pool. Mornings begin with a glass of fresh juice squeezed from fruit grown on the walled property’s orange and lemon trees.
Dior jacquard fitted jacket ($9,370), cotton poplin shirt ($2,900), and silk faille asymmetric skirt ($8,300, dior.com)
Alistair Taylor-Young
Where to stay
Step into Seville’s old world charm with boutique hotel Casa Del Limonero and its impeccably decorated 14 rooms, grand interior courtyard, private orange grove, and emerald-hued swimming pool. Extremadura’s La Dehesa Don Pedro is a farmstead away from home, with open-air terrace dining serving up local produce and wines, and outdoor activities including horse riding and hiking.
Louis Vuitton scoop-neck bodysuit (from $2,969), tiered ruffle tutu skirt (price upon request), belt ($872), and cashmere fedora (from $856, us.louisvuitton.com)
Alistair Taylor-Young
Where to eat
El Rinconcillo is the oldest tapas bar in Seville (open since 1670), a gloriously picturesque haunt with tiled walls and Iberico ham hanging from the ceiling. Expect a crowd at any time of day. For modern Spanish fare, book into locals-favorite Islamorada Tapas Bar for top-notch seafood away from the tourism traps. Vegetarians and vegans can now sample traditional Spanish cuisine with newcomer restaurant Veganí, which serves organic food and natural wines.
Where to drink
Hidden up an unassuming staircase next to the Hotel Los Seises is terrace bar Pura Vida, which has views of the Giralda, live music, and strong cocktails. For a beach club atmosphere in the heart of Seville, book a table at Terraza Doña María, a rooftop bar (and hotel pool) overlooking the Cathedral square. Step into the unexpected with Bar Garlochí and its maximalist Catholic decor inspired by Seville’s Holy Week.
Alexander McQueen black wool blazer cape ($5,700) and tuxedo pants ($1,650), ruffle halter-neck top ($4,100), and Heron black leather boots ($1,050, alexandermcqueen.com); L’Atelier Nawbar earrings ($2,160, lateliernawbar.com)
Alistair Taylor-Young
What to do
Meet the horses from our fashion story and book a horse tour through Extramadura’s dramatic landscapes with family-owned company Frisones de Tentudia, also available to book through Dehesa Don Pedro.
Experience Spain’s craftsmanship first-hand with a tour at leatherwear artisan Javier Manacho’s workshop, who created the carved-effect saddles for Dior’s 2023 Cruise collection.