Well, you can decide how best to programme your day. Perhaps what you would like is to go to Elvas and buy something. Or perhaps what you'd rather do is to cycle your bike around the lovely surrounding areas, or go hiking... or perhaps not. Or sleep or... Well, whatever takes your fancy.

There are those who enjoy taking photos. If so, you should speak with your host, Michael, because he has worked as a photographer for more than 35 years: in advertising, and in fashion; in the whole photography industry. And if you'd prefer to talk about other interesting things, Lu (the hostess), knows rather a lot about shiatsu; and when it comes to cooking, there are few who better her.

Olivenza, Mérida or Zafra, or Badajoz, Trujillo or Cáceres, just a stone's throw away. Or for those of you who are not so reluctant with the car, Lisbon is just two hours away.

The house is located in the province of Badajoz, in Valverde de Leganes, around 400 km from Madrid. Among the olive trees and Holm Oaks, facing the Sierra de Alor Mountains; in the middle of villages full of history, dolmens and ancient routes. Something for everyone.

You can choose the 'Casa de Guardas' or the 'Chozo'

Casa de Guardas with kitchen, living room and three double bedrooms, one with a double and two with twin beds, all with bathroom en suite.

The Chozo is an old shepherd building reformed as a suite, with double bed.

And you'll be enjoying authentic delights - because this land offers some extraordinary cheeses and excellent Iberian products...

In Valle de Mira you can choose any or all of a broad range of activities, which include:

* Shiatsu [Japanese massage therapy]
* hiking
* bike rides
* dolmens
* fishing
* a direct link to horseriding
* adventure activities, zip wiring, canoeing, archery
* badminton, volleyball
* model aeroplane flying
* table tennis and 30 hectares of land
* an aerodrome for sightseeing flights, microlight aircraft and paragliding courses

And if none of these appeal, then you could just watch the native animals in their natural surroundings, they are well worth your attention and admiration!