‘Build a new life’ couple set to open hotel Palacio Blanco, Andalucia

A new boutique hotel, Palacio Blanco, is set to open in the capital of Spain’s relatively undiscovered Andalucian district of Axarquia, Velez-Malaga, just half an hour’s drive from Malaga.

The hotel is the result of a lengthy restoration project recently featured on Channel Five’s ‘Build a New Life’ programme. Set in a restored 18th Century Bishop’s Palace, Hotel Palacio Blanco is a stylish eight bedroomed boutique hotel and will open on the 15th September 2007. Prices start from 75 Euros per night (£51) for a double room.

Architect Nick Vallance and his wife Lesley (ex fashion industry display executive) have brought together their skill set to create a small hotel in this stunning building set around a tranquil courtyard, just three kilometers from the coast.

No mod-con has been overlooked in the bedrooms; wi-fi internet, satellite TV with flat screens and the all important i-pod dock, together with luxurious super king beds, en-suite wet rooms and waffle cotton dressing gowns.

Décor is Moroccan with a modern twist. Lots of rattan and wrought iron. Vibrant colours offset the clean white washed walls of the Palace.

The hotel has a rooftop exercise swim-spa pool, and terrace with views over the town, to the castle and the mountains beyond. Guests can stretch out on one of the sun loungers or snuggle up on the love-bed for two or more! Dining takes place in the elegant courtyard.

Located just half an hour from Malaga airport, in the historic old town of Velez-Malaga, the hotel is ideally situated to explore the surrounding area with its pretty inland villages. There is a new high speed tram connection to the coastal town of Torre Del Mar where visitors can enjoy miles of sandy beach, without the parking hassle.

Velez-Malaga itself is a bustling market town, with narrow streets, white washed houses, all overlooked by a 13th Century castle.

Private parties, weddings, conferences and activity weekends can be catered for. Guest looking for action can go horse riding, mountain biking, play golf, walk or ski. For a slower pace, shopping and tapas is the best bet.

Low season prices are 75 Euros per night per room (1 November – 31st March 2008 excluding Bank Holidays, Christmas and New Year). High Season prices are 95 Euros per room per night.

For reservations go to palacioblanco.com.