I’m compelled to write about the wonderful Hotel Mesón de Sancho, half way between Algeciras and Tarifa, Andalucia, Spain. We stayed three nights. We were three people travelling and were received at this blissful roadside hotel, which has been run by the Sancho Family since 1954. Fernando Sancho, the owner, is present every day and welcomed us personally. He is a very gracious host and after some lively chat about our common childhood memories, he offered us a drink courtesy of the house. A delicate and generous touch. Our rooms and bathrooms, en suite, were spacious and immaculately clean. The beds were very comfortable. Our balconies offered panoramic views of the North African coast and lush, green, sub-tropical foliage owing to a small brook running through the property. I used to fish for Terrapins there as a boy. Modestia looked after our rooms efficiently and kindly. The hotel also boasts a beautifully clean and idyllic swimming pool. We were received at reception by Miguel and Rocio, in perfect English. Miguel is the third generation of his family to work at the hotel. His grandfather served my father in the 60’s. I was taught to make caramel by his uncle, at age eight. The restaurant is run efficiently and elegantly by Anya, who offers impeccable service, together with our servers Antonio and Bruno. The kitchen boasts a wide variety off Andalusian specialties, both beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. There are a wide selection of Spanish wines to accompany any chosen dish. I highly recommend the Gambas al Ajillo, Knuckle of Pork, the Tuna steak on a bed of smoked paprika and tomatoes. They cater happily for vegans and vegetarians. There are two desserts that cannot be missed and have been on the menu since they opened in the 50’s: Tarta Imperial (not the Russian recipe):- an almond, flour, butter, sugar and egg classic cold tart. The other is the Tocino del Cielo - a dense and very sweet egg custard in heavy, dark caramel. You need a fork and spoon to eat it. It really is heavenly. We had the most wonderful three nights there, while taking in the local sights in and around the region. This is a stay not to be missed. It is frankly the best hotel in a 100km radius. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Sorry we have no photos, since it just isn’t our thing to take pics of our food and bedrooms. All the same, this hotel is an absolute gem.
