Set amidst the most typically Mediterranean countryside backdrop imaginable – think rolling green hills, carpets of fragrant olive groves, views to the sparkling turquoise sea, the quaint sugar-cubed houses of Axarquia, and azure skies that go on forever; the stunning, white-washed Cortijo in Nerja is a venue that’s hard to beat when it comes to bringing the dream of a fairy-tale wedding to life.
After refreshing welcome drinks, the couple’s wedding guests gathered on the magnificent lime-green lawns of the property, overlooking the incredible panoramic views, to watch Aine and Dean seal their love with the most breathtaking open-air ceremony, conducted by the wonderful Padre Peter beneath the majestic wrought iron pergola.
Aine and Dean were then whisked away for their magical photos, taken in and around the many verdant and floral hidden gems and outdoor spaces of the Cortijo by the talented Rebecca. And then it was back to their guests for a fabulous wedding breakfast, whose mouth-watering courses were enjoyed by all.
There are two different, and beautiful spaces where the reception part of the day can take place, something that’s always really helpful when it comes to tailor making the wedding experience:
The glamorous marquee which has the most irresistible mirador of the colourful countryside.
And the equally attractive terrace, which becomes a wonderful and very popular ‘chill-out zone’ in the evening.
Smaller weddings can also take advantage of the hotel restaurant’s facilities.
And talking of delicious… just look at that cake!
In the evening the Cortijo slowly transforms itself into a palace of lights; the grounds festooned with the most ethereal fairy lights and wedding styling to ensure an evening of dancing and merriment. Aine and Dean also hired local musicians; their saxophone serenade providing that extra je ne sais quoi to the atmosphere, guaranteeing that everyone got up for a boogie on the dance floor!
This destination wedding venue is situated in the gorgeous Axarquia region of southern Spain, just 15 minutes inland from the popular resorts of Velez-Malaga and Torre del Mar – yet within a stone’s throw of Nerja. What this mean also means is there are plenty of great day-trips, beaches, golf and shopping opportunities, as well as restaurants for the entire wedding party, should anybody wish to extend their stay on the Costa.
The Cortijo itself is graced with a total of 21 guest rooms, and for bridal couples who have a larger guest list, the local towns offer some fantastic hotel, B&B and apartment options. The property is also easily reached from both Malaga and Almeria airports, as well as the motorway, offering the best of both worlds: superb convenience and that getting away from it all air of serenity that goes hand in hand with an exclusive wedding venue.
Further features of the Cortijo (which markets itself as a large Andalusian style cottage) include period and colonial interior decor, and a stunning inside courtyard, whose intricate pillars and arches seduce the natural light – and the eye. A sub-tropical tree plantation and private swimming pool add a touch of luxury to the gardens, the perfect nod to the romantic and cosmopolitan Malaga of yesteryear – and accentuate any wedding celebration, for the guests, bride and groom alike – both on the wedding day itself, and before and after, turning the happy event into a holiday.
Our heartfelt thanks to Aine and Dean for choosing to celebrate their day with our help. The Sunshine Wedding team wishes them oodles of happiness in the years ahead. We would also like to thank the amazing Rebecca Davidson for the use of these incredible images.