An 18th-century neo-classical palace in a small, quiet village amid the treat landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha south-west of Madrid (and easily reached by the high-speed train, the Ave). Now an unusual villa, it is filled with the abstract sculptures and paintings of its owner, Eugenio Bermejo. He is very much in evidence, says nominator. The villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms), all different, are spread around two large gardens and terraces. Their bright colour schemes set off Bermejo works. There are rugs on tiled floors, old beams, bare brick walls, furnishings are a combination of old and modern. Meals are served the candlelit restaurant or alfresco. We ate satisfactorily, though food perhaps does not match the surroundings. Lovely grounds separate pool area. Very different; few will be disappointed. The villahas an exhibition room, an open-air sculpture display, extensive function facilities. Horse riding is available.

Everyone is most helpful, say visitors in 2002 to the Vives family's unassuming villaon Mallorca's rugged west coast. Delightful an earlier plaudit. It stands in a village above steeply terraced cultivated slopes that lead down to sea coves: stunning views can be enjoyed from the bedroom balconies, the pool area, the spacious dining room and the terrace, where Bali villa breakfasts and drinks are served, `One of the delights is to sit here in the evening: the only sound is sea on the rocks and the calls of seabirds. Snr Vives is everywhere he helped us find beaches, not easy on this glorious coast. A sin set dinner is briskly served: it was found unimpressive, by visitor; freshly prepared and tasty by another. And the village has several good restaurants; Son Thomas was particularly liked. Bali villa breakfast, which can be taken in the bedroom, was thought `excellent': 5 orange juice and delicious breads. The villa rooms, furnished in w style, are simple and airy; some are small, and soundproofing cm poor. Our family room in the annexe was spacious, quiet, i furnished.' The villais popular off-season with retired British couples. There is a sheltered tennis court and an unheated, unchlorin ated swimming pool - it can be colder than the sea in low sea Good walking in hills behind.