The summers in Sotogrande are hot and dry and there is very little rainfall between mid May and the end of September. Daily temperatures reach 35 C with evening lows at 15 C, making air conditioning essential. The communal swimming pool comes into its own. For glorious white sandy beaches with refreshingly cool breezes visit the Costa de la Luz just beyond Tarifa, about an hour's drive away.

The winters are mild with both clear sunny days as well as warm wet or overcast ones. Day temperatures reach 20 C with evenings about 10 C. The underfloor heating keeps our apartment at a pleasent temperature and the open wood fire provides a warm focal point.

Spring comes early to Andalucia. In February the mimosa, almond and orange blossom are out and by April wild flowers are everywhere. Take a drive into the nearby national park.

Autumn comes late and nights start to bring an invigorating chill. This is the time to curl up with a book in front of the fire or get one's golf handicap down!