A secret sanctuary on the doorstep of Chinchón
Meet Jan and Karin, proud owners of this sublime rural retreat on the edge of Chinchón (Madrid), where business and pleasure collapse into one. It was in 2019, after a two-and-a-half-year refurbishment, that the pair finally realised their dream and welcomed their first paying guests to their own little haven of peace and nature. Six years later, they’re ready to move on to the next big adventure, but not before one last tour of this thoroughly enchanting property, brought to you by the latest episode of My Singular Space.
When Jan and Karin left the Netherlands to pursue their hospitality ambitions, they never dreamed they would wind up in a place like Chinchón, a little over 60 km from Madrid. After months of scouring real estate listings, they finally struck gold with this ravishing country retreat, blessed with majestic views and an easy, barefoot ambiance. It was everything they had imagined and more.
They describe how the site beneath our feet was carved out from an olive plantation dating back centuries, of which 40 trees remain, all over 400 years old and still offering up their yearly bounty of oil. The previous owner chose this spot to build a handsome house and generous garden which, years later, Jan and Karin would finally see through to completion. “Living here is an absolute privilege. It’s so quiet and relaxing, but you know that the big city lights are never too far away.”
Extensively planted with old-growth olive trees, the 7,000 sqm plot reveals a lavish garden with a swimming pool, several fountains, outdoor seating and all manner of delightful corners to discover. The pool, built on the structure of the original water tank, is a fitting centrepiece and a stunning example of responsive design.
The house itself is a vision of the Mediterranean good life, with its bright white stonework, blue shutters and sprawling terrace, spacious enough to host al fresco get-togethers with family and friends. The main living space can be found on the upper level, while three fully equipped studio apartments occupy the ground floor.
For Jan and Karin, it’s the perfect year-round country escape. “We’ve loved being here in winter as well as in summer, getting cosy around a crackling fire. We always feel safe here, despite the wonderful sense of seclusion. In summer, an evening swim is such a treat — there’s no better way to end the day. It really helps you relax. It’s a place where you can truly switch off and restore your zest for life,” they reflect.
Building community
And there’s more to treasure beyond the front gate. Chinchón boasts a welcoming, vibrant community, where people look out for one another. “Right at the start of lockdown, we heard a knock at the door. It was a neighbour who had brought us vegetables from his garden. He said, “I know you’re not from here and you can’t leave, so please take these.” We were genuinely touched, because it’s not something we had been used to. That feeling of solidarity, of being part of a larger community, is just what it’s like here. You have your privacy, but you’re never alone.”
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