Situation

Molino Taponero is in the municipality of Gaucín, one of Andalucia's famous "White Villages". Gaucín itself sits high on a crag 600 metres above. In fact, the Moorish castle of the village is the only building to be seen from the Molino. Gaucín has many restaurants, shops and tapas bars and is a 20 minute drive away, with another 40 minutes to Ronda, famous for its spectacular setting, gorge and historic old city. The road to Ronda is one of the most scenic in Europe. Heading to the coast, Estepona is 45 minutes away, with Gibraltar and the white sand beaches of the largely unspoiled Atlantic coast just over an hours drive.

Genal Valley

Genal River

History

The site was settled by the Romans with parts of the present building dating back to Moorish times. By the early Twentieth century Molino Taponero was the largest and most important mill in the area and was working up until 1971 when it was gutted by fire. It lay abandoned and in ruins until 1993 when Paul chanced upon it on a country hike. It was love at first sight and the Molino was acquired soon afterwards. Paul began rebuilding and restoration work which continues to this day.

Cottage Terrace

Cottage Garden

Alternative

Equally charming, although with a different style, is nearby Finca La Huerta where Pen and Kit Hogg offer accommodation in Mongolian yurts.
www.andaluciayurts.com

Text and Images © 2009 Paul Sutcliffe