Your Herts & Beds Wedding - Dec/Jan 2019 (Issue 77)

HONEYMOON 111 GREEN AND BEAUTIFUL Designed not only to impress, but to minimise environmental impact, a number of eco-friendly initiatives are in place, including a biomass facility that transforms the olive stones from the estate’s harvest into energy for their heating and hot water systems. A staple of the region, we enjoyed an olive-oil tasting session outside under the shade of the trees. I had no idea it could be so flavoursome as I’m usually pretty undiscerning when it comes to choosing what to buy, opting for price over quality. Now I’m a committed convert, especially after having an olive tree planted in one of the groves, complete with my name on the plaque! SWITCH OFF Enjoying the breathtaking setting is a big part of the unhurried, peaceful ethos, with guided eco-tours available and chance to be at one with nature. shinrin-yoku, otherwise known as forest bathing, was a whole new experience for me. Led by a super-chilled guide, we took a gentle stroll into the surrounding countryside, stopping to admire the plants and wildlife along the way, to sit cross-legged in silence under the boughs of an ancient oak tree to commune with nature. Not wanting to sound too new-agey, I’d highly recommend it if you’re looking to unwind and enjoy a life-affirming moment. After shaking off my initial self-consciousness, I was soon drifting off into my own little world; senses fully awakened to all the sounds, smells and sights lost in the everyday rush and tear. If lazing on a sun lounger, glass of fizz in hand, is more your thing, then this is the place for that too. The main lagoon-style pool provides a dreamy backdrop for those all-important honeymoon snaps. You can take a dip, order drinks and snacks and, as if things could get any more romantic, hire a Balinese day bed on the lawn, with Jacuzzi session included. For those that just can’t keep still, there’s cycling routes and tennis courts too. FOOD, GLORIOUS, FOOD There’s a strong local and regional provenance to much of the cuisine reflected at the hotel’s welcoming El Cortijo eaterie. For fine-dining their La Finca restaurant is the perfect setting for a romantic date night. You can put on your glad rads, enjoy five-star food and dine out on the beautiful outdoor terrace in the summer while taking in the breathtaking views of the hotel’s private estate – the stuff that honeymoon dreams are made of! MY HIGHLIGHTS ❤ A sublime olive oil and sea salt scrub treatment at the hotel spa, which left me feeling totally chilled and my skin silky smooth. ❤ A paella cooking class with the hotel chef. I’ve never been able to master this dish before, it always ended up a stodgy mess. Under the expert’s watchful eye we created a not-half-bad version of their signature Paella La Bobadilla, which we ate for lunch. What’s more, I have the recipe so I can recreate it at home! ❤ A trip to Riofrio Caviar (caviarderiofrio.com) for a tour of the sturgeon farm and taste of their renowned organic caviar followed by lunch in the typically Andalucian restaurant Mesan Riofrio. La Bobadilla, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (barcelolabobadilla.com ) Rates start from £136, price includes taxes. B k it!