Villa Carmen is an absolutely beautiful villa in a great location (quiet residential road with hardly any cars driving past). Has large outdoor area with enough room to sit on the top patio or by the large pool, which is not overlooked. The two are separated by 12 steep stone steps. Rooms are spacious with stone walls and high ceilings, keeping the villa cool. It was very clean and had essentials inc microwave, kettle, dishwasher & washing machine.
The owner of the villa, Frank, is extremely friendly and helpful. We didn't have any problems and he made sure we had everything we needed (even went out immediately when he realised we didn't have a hair drier and bought one, even though he was going away that day, and most shops were closed, being Sunday). Frank recommended some really nice restaurants as well as places to go if we wanted a day trip, worth asking him for tips!
The town is 10 mins walk away and has some lovely restaurants, most serving until around 10pm. One restaurant, Ilerja, at the end of the parade, serves amazing steaks, not too pricey! Staff are very helpful and friendly. A restaurant which served good Tapas and succulent steak was by a church on a cobbled street (can't remember the name, Frank will know).
One restaurant TO AVOID is Meson Maito - food was disgusting. Lamb soup had been bulked up with soggy bread and lumps of fat, the salads were un-appetising. Staff were unhelpful, bordering on rude. Cost of the meal for 6 people which included 2 soups, 4 salads and 6 Cokes was well over 100euros.
The supermarket is about 5 mins walk away (up steep hill, probably not suitable for those with walking difficulties) and is quite large - sells anything you’d need for the week. We got fresh bread from a little shop in town (check name with Frank) and opposite is a deli with a huge range of ham and cheese.
Madrid is an hour away, bus goes from the main road (5 mins walk away). When you get to the bus station I'd recommend finding another bus that goes straight to the town centre (Sol) as we tried to walk before realising it would take 2 hours. We had a car as it was cheaper than getting transfers from the airport as there were 6 of us. Handy for trips to supermarket but unless you’re planning day trips you wouldn't really need one.
I’d definitely recommend visiting Villa Carmen. We had a lovely, relaxing holiday, and ate delicious food - all in a stunning location.
If I get the chance to go back again then I will do!