The monks who resided in this beautiful monastery would have been able to go about their responsibilities in the lap of luxury. Although it was a bit eerie staying in a place where, I imagine, so many young children had been rogered with the tacit blessing of the catholic church, the splendour of the place itself swiftly enabled one turn a blind eye to the atrocities - much like the church itself in more recent years..
The hotel provided an inexpensive jumping off point to the local historic villages and Medinat Al Zahara. The town of Palma Del Rio is a little dull, but we managed to find some good food at La Taverna. Weekend nightlife is of the chavvish variety, it seems, and the various drinking dens on the main strip had the feel of a teenage disco in a northern British newtown. The hotel contrasted agreeably with the local ambience - a real retreat from the hills-have-eyes feel of the high street.
The hotel's wifi didn't work for any of our second day and the receptionist, although refreshingly willing, was still typically incapable of resolving the problem. The night porter was surly in manner, much in keeping with the local character of the folk of the region, but no doubt a steadfast and reliable worker.
All in all, an agreeable stay barring minor niggles. The establishment is much more tasteful than one comes to expect in Spain and our stay seemed like good value for money, although the breakfast on offer was scandalously expensive for the local wallet.