Christmas in Andalucia

Hello, my name is Philippa. I live in idyllic surroundings in rural Andalucia, up in the hills, an hour from the coast with my dogs, cats and donkeys. Occasionally I have to tear myself away from this paradise to visit friends and family, and then I need someone to look after my beloved retinue of animals, and keep an eye on the house and property generally . To house-sit here you must be someone who likes the countryside, and be happy in your own company, (or come as a couple) as the house is a bit isolated. There are other houses dotted around, but no close neighbours. The nearest village is 10 minutes drive away, and the nearest town Loja is 15 minutes away. The ideal house-sitter is someone who enjoys country walks, peace and quiet and above all, an animal lover who will take care of the animals and my house as though they were their own. You must be a good experienced and confident driver (car provided) with a full licence, as you will need to drive to get to the shops. There is no local public transport. Although I provide a car, you will be responsible for any fines you incur whilst driving it, and any excesses in the case of accidents. I have 3 dogs, 2 cats and 2 donkeys. They're very easy to care for - you do not need previous experience. But you must be fit enough to go up and down to the donkeys' field at feeding times, and take the dogs for a good walk each day. Winter in Andalucia can be glorious - bright and sunny by day, and not getting dark till after 6pm even in deepest winter! The skies are a wonderful crisp blue, though the nights are cold and can be often be frosty This house-sit would suit someone who is happy and content with a relaxed and peaceful country life, someone perhaps who likes reading or painting. There's even a piano if you're musical! Plenty of lovely walks around, plus riding stables and tennis courts not far away. From here you can explore the glorious heritage of Andalucia: some of its beautiful cities are within easy reach for a day trip, for instance Malaga and Granada. Nearest good shops are in Loja the nearby town about 15 minutes drive, whilst there are little shops in the villages about 8-10 minutes away. Driving is essential.

The house is quite isolated with no near neighbours. Set in beautiful countryside with lovely views. It's a stone built house, mainly on one level, with only a few steps inside. There is a wood burner as well as oil radiators, excellent WIFI and English TV channels. The house is well equipped, and there's a comfortable double-bedded room for the house-sitter. Car provided for shopping etc. You need to be a confident driver as the local roads are narrow and the terrain is hilly.