Long car rides can be a source of stress for both humans and their furry companions; however, for Nilla and Saxo, this trip was significant. Measuring less than a foot tall, Nilla’s uncontainable curiosity was evident, contrasting sharply with Saxo’s easygoing demeanor. As the car rolled away from Granada, Nilla perched on her seat, wide-eyed and eager to absorb the changing landscape outside her window. It’s in her nature to find beauty in the mundane, tirelessly enamored with each passing tree and distant mountain. For Nilla, the journey was a spectacle, a canvas painted with vibrant hues of green, rolling hills, and scattered wildflowers. On the other hand, Saxo epitomized tranquility; an unwavering presence, he promptly surrendered to the rhythm of the car’s engine, drifting into slumber as Nilla enjoyed her view.
As the miles accumulated, the quiet companionship between the two dogs became apparent to their humans. Nilla’s excitement bubbled over in moments, prompting her to nudge Saxo awake, a clear invitation to share in the splendor of Andalusia’s diverse scenery. Yet, each time, she found Saxo undisturbed, tail twitching gently in dreams. This contrast highlighted their personalities: Nilla sought adventure, while Saxo was the embodiment of ease, a reminder that sometimes, taking a moment to relax is just as vital as embracing the thrill of exploration.
Arrival at Relais Chateau: Excitement Meets Apprehension
When they finally reached their destination—a chic Relais Chateau Hotel, La Torre del Visco, boasting a pet-friendly policy—the afternoon sun cast golden rays that danced over the cobblestone pathways, seemingly welcoming them with open arms. Their humans, bubbling with excitement, could hardly contain their joy. The hotel exuded luxury, and the exterior, adorned with flowering plants, felt as if it was calling out for exploration. However, Nilla, exhausted from her long journey, felt the weight of her tiny body pressing heavily against the ground. Each step was a laborious effort as she sought shaded spots to rest, a culmination of energy expended during their lengthy ride.
Seeing Nilla’s fatigue, Saxo instinctively understood her plight. His protective and nurturing instincts surged forth; he never doubted that they would navigate this new world together, side by side. As Nilla repeatedly laid down in shaded areas, it became clear to Saxo that she wasn’t ready to walk any further. Motivated by camaraderie and empathy, Saxo decided to escort her back to the familiar surroundings of the hotel rather than explore alone. His decision was a quiet but profound display of companionship—a testament to their friendship that emphasized support over personal enjoyment.
Saxo’s choice mirrored a fundamental tenet of true friendship: standing by those we care for, regardless of personal desires. His willingness to forego the excitement of exploration to ensure Nilla felt safe and comfortable served as a poignant reminder of the value of empathy—a virtue evident even in the simplest of actions.
A Pet-Friendly Reception: Joy Amidst Uncertainty
Upon their return, they were greeted at the hotel’s bar and restaurant terrace with open arms. The staff presented them with a delightful doggie welcome pack that included a water and a food bowl, a sleeping cushion, and a soft blanket. The genuine kindness bestowed upon them was heartwarming, sparking a sense of belonging that both Nilla and Saxo had yearned for during their long journey. The joy of being welcomed, coupled with the tangible luxuries provided, reminded them of the unique experiences that come with pet-friendly accommodations. And on top they found a new friend, the owner of the hotel, a golden retriever!
Yet, their initial delight was somewhat clouded by the handover of a do's-and-don’ts chart outlining hotel policies specifically for pets. Glancing at the chart together, Nilla and Saxo exchanged curious looks filled with a mix of surprise and intimidation. The list of rules felt stifling, a stark contrast to the warm, uncomplicated relationships they had previously experienced in other friendly environments. The previous adventure they had shared—where they were embraced and celebrated without constraints—created a poignant juxtaposition highlighting the discomfort of predefined boundaries.
The chart, detailing expected behaviors from ‘no barking’ to ‘stay off the furniture,’ emphasized behavioral restrictions rather than encouraging the spirited personalities they both embodied. It was merely a slip of paper, but to Nilla and Saxo, it represented the uncomfortable reality of imposed structure intruding on their spontaneous interaction with hotel life.
Disappointments and Unspoken Thoughts
Caught up in the whirlwind of their emotions, Nilla and Saxo quietly observed what else the hotel had to offer. Despite the initial excitement, they were disheartened to discover that they were not allowed to accompany their hoomans to the pool area—a prime spot for sunbathing and play. For very different reasons, their minds fell into quiet contemplation; Nilla desperately wanted the comfort of her hooman while savouring the warm sun, and Saxo felt a sense of duty to remain close to his hooman, valuing her companionship over the allure of a carefree swim.
In their silence, their expressions communicated all that words could not—pensive glances and soulful sighs spoke of disappointment. However, they carried their thoughts, choosing to save them for the morning walk when they could articulate their feelings more freely under the gentle sun. Their bodies may have been fatigued, but their spirits yearned for connection and understanding.
In their shared silence, they held a tacit promise to navigate this new reality together, leaning on each other’s strengths while accepting the limitations imposed by their environment. The car ride memories lingered just as much as their expectations and desires for this new environment, creating a complex interplay of emotions that only deepened their bond.
Reflections on this Place
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Nilla and Saxo settled quietly into the comfort of their new hotel, surrounded by blankets and cushions that felt reminiscent of home. The journey had been longer and more intricate than either had anticipated, woven with moments of joy, exhaustion, and revelations born of companionship. They had experienced a spectrum of emotions—excitement at the adventures, weariness from the journey, and unease at the regulations governing their stay.
Sadly this place was after all not as dog friendly as expected. As a Relais & Chateaux hotel this truly lovely place doesn't feel comfortable for a dog owner taking his best friend on a trip. Finding La Almunia del Visco was quite the adventure! It might be helpful to inform potential guests to come equipped with an SUV or Jeep, as the delightful, albeit winding, 5 km route through the woods adds to the charm of the experience. Upon arrival, the sense of privacy and disconnect from the outside world was truly remarkable. The ambiance is stunning, nestled amidst breathtaking nature, and the decor of the farmhouse is exquisite. However, I was quite disappointed with certain amenities in our deluxe double room and junior suite. Not having a fridge or safe in the rooms was unexpected. My bedside table lamps were not working. Moreover, the welcome drink of a cooled bottle of water felt a bit lackluster.
The dining experience did not live up to the Relais & Châteaux standard, particularly as we were unaware that the restaurant wasn't fully operational on Sundays. If you want to eat as it is promised on the website of the restaurant https://torredelvisco.com/restaurant/?lang=es don't arrive on a Sunday! You get just a limited menu upon your arrival, and I found the initial dish of “fresh bread with tomatoes, garlic, and oil” quite underwhelming. While I appreciated the second dish, a perfectly spiced beef tartare, the dining experience fell short of expectations for a Relais & Châteaux establishment.
On a positive note, breakfast was exceptional! The local honey, cheeses, yogurt, and charcuterie were delightful, and the fruit platter was exquisitely presented.
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Absolutely fabulous to read ! Such a beautiful adventure for humans and their companion duty friends