Escape to the Serenity of the Mountains – Care for Our Charming Countryside Retreat
Spain, Taberno, Andalucía
Pets
- Dog(s)
- Cat(s)
- Chicken(s)
Easy to care for pets.
Dates
- 10 May 2026 to 1 Sep 2026 (4 sitters have applied for these dates)
- 1 Sep 2026 to 3 Jan 2027 (4 sitters have applied for these dates)
About this assignment
***IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING APPLYING, PLEASE, PLEASE CONFIRM WHICH DATES YOU HAVE AVAILABILITY FOR, THAT YOU HAVE VISA STAY STATUS FOR SPAIN AND THAT YOU HAVE/WILL OBTAIN YOUR OWN PERSONAL TRANSPORT.***
We are looking for experienced, honest and dependable housesitter(s). The property is largely self maintaining, a love of animals is essential and some experience of pool maintenance, cleaning would be advantageous. Our dates have been listed as open from March 2026 in monthly increments, but we are really looking for sitters to take on 60+ day stays.
What responsibilities are required of the house sitter
The main responsibility is looking after our animals:
If you're dreaming of a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature, this is your chance. Our beautiful rural retreat, nestled in the mountains north of Albox, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Set on 12 acres of unspoiled land at an elevation of 800 meters, the property boasts breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and the soothing sounds of nature all around.
While you're unwinding in this serene setting, we’ll need a helping hand to care for a few of our beloved animals who call this place home:
Pepe – our gentle giant, a Spanish Mastiff with a big heart and an even bigger bark. He's a loyal guardian of the land and loves his twice-daily walks through the countryside.
Ludi – an independent tabby cat who spends his days lounging in the sun. He’s low-maintenance, only requiring a regular meal and a little affection now and then.
Violet, Daisy, and Lily – our three lovely hens, who add a touch of charm (and fresh eggs!) to your mornings. They need to be let out each morning and safely tucked in at dusk. Their coop should be cleaned once a week, and they’ll need their food and water checked daily.
What are the good features of the property and location
The house is spacious and comfortable, and the garden is on two levels with steps between them. There is a large solar heated pool, solar heated hot water, mains electric plus solar. Water is supplied by a large deposito which is topped fortnightly. There are beautiful mountain views from the house and our own mountain you can climb for amazing views as far as the coast. We have an excellent internet connection. The local village, 4 kms away, has a bar, two shops, a pharmacy and a swimming pool. We live in old, rural south-east Spain in a small hamlet tucked away in the hills, but only 15 minutes from the motorway. It is just a 30 minute drive to the beautiful beaches and stunning scenery of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park and Mojácar, and two hours from Granada and many other attractions.
What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment
You should be aware that it does get very hot here in the summer. We do have plenty of outside shade and also air-conditioning in all bedrooms and the cortijo is well insulated from the sun.
OWNERSHIP OF YOUR OWN VEHICLE IS ESSENTIAL FOR THIS LOCATION - TAXIS/UBER/PUBLIC TRANSPORT IS ALMOST NON-EXISTENT. YOU WILL NEED A VEHICLE TO BE ABLE TO SUPPORT YOURSELF.
I'm afraid that, for now, we can't accept children at the property.
Can I bring my own pets?
No, sorry.
Last updated:
24 February 2026
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Testimonials
My first testimonial I do give.
Many thanks to Deborah and Mark for your trust, openness, and warmth. Deborah and Mark want to spend their retirement here and are understandably looking for someone with a good heart who will take care of the house and animals until then. They are fair, people-oriented, sincere, and ask for nothing more than what is described above. As a newcomer to house and pet sitting, I was touched and impressed by Mark's directness in saying that there is always a first time, which led to this arrangement and its extension. I have now been here for two and a half months and will stay for another month before continuing my journey. During this time, all communication with Deborah and Mark has been smooth, goal-oriented, and designed to reach agreements that were comfortable for everyone involved and promised a good time. I had a very good time here(!), thank you very much! I would like to highlight Mark's quick communication and responsiveness as particularly positive, extremely fast(!), sometimes faster than I could type... I apologize, I'm not that fast. The period from the beginning of December until today was marked by strong winds on some days, which interrupted the power supply or led to power surges (up to 10 times in one evening) and tripped the fuses. Thanks to Mark's and Jesus' (my predecessor) instructions, however, these were absolutely no problem. The in-house internet was very stable and sweetened a few quiet hours for me, a real highlight, thank you Mark! I didn't have any other work to do on the property at this time of year, as the strong wind did most of the leaf sweeping for me ;-) . Mark offered me the use of his (wood) workshop, which includes a table saw, planer, and various sanding machines. It's not a carpentry workshop, but if you know how to use the tools, you'll enjoy it. This brings me to Pepe, Ludi, Daisy, ‘Blacki’ and ‘Browni’, the latter two being new chickens whose predecessors were killed by El Zorro. Deborah and Mark's descriptions have all proven to be extremely accurate! Pepe watches over the property intensely, yet is a docile ‘stubborn’ when going out. I never had a problem when the other dogs in the valley crossed our path. I never used a leash or a collar with a sensor. When we went off-road, he stayed very close to my side the whole time without me having to bribe him with biscuits. On familiar paths, he sometimes walks parallel to me in the terrain.... Pepe was never irritated, lets himself be petted at any time, gives his paw when begging, and shows his affection in other ways. The only rule that is absolutely important: never interrupt him while he is eating his two meals until he is finished! He defends this and is like a different dog when he does so... Pepe is a great dog! Ludi, the cat, is the only cat I know who loves to be stroked on the belly and even against the grain. He listens when called, is gentle, well-balanced, and unproblematic.... Daisy seems to be the boss and, like the curious Brownie, lets herself be stroked... Blackie is still unsure... but they already follow me when I call them if I (currently) allow them to go outside.... The scenery is, as described, very beautiful! Surrounded by a wide south-facing valley, I particularly enjoy the early and late evening hours, when the cloud-lined sky changes from infinitely multicolored pink to royal blue... a real treat! Those experienced in mountain hiking can reach the hills bordering the valley in 15 minutes directly off-road and enjoy a sweeping view of the Andalusian landscape and the Mediterranean Sea. A very beautiful landscape, a wonderful stay!
Siegmar, Germany, February 2026
Repeat sit — wonderful hosts every single time
Returning to sit for Mark and Deborah multiple times throughout 2025 has been an easy “yes” every time. They’re consistently kind, communicative, and exceptionally well organised, which makes arriving, settling in, and following routines completely straightforward. Caring for Pepe, Ludi, and the hens is always a joy—everything is clearly defined, and the daily rhythm feels natural from day one. The villa is comfortable, well-equipped and maintained, and set in a peaceful valley that’s perfect if you like quiet, nature, and great walks right from the door. And importantly for remote working, the internet has been solid and reliable. What really stands out, especially across repeat sits, is how supportive and responsive Mark and Deborah are. If anything comes up, you get quick, practical help—and you never feel left on your own. They’re also flexible and trusting, which makes a big difference when coordinating dates and keeping everything running smoothly. We’d happily recommend this sit to any future sitter and would be delighted to return again in 2026!
Jesus, United Kingdom, December 2025
Unforgettable stay in a peaceful paradise
What an absolute pleasure it was to housesit for Mark and Deborah! From our very first interaction, they were exceptionally kind, communicative, and friendly. Their thoughtfulness is evident in every aspect of their home, from the clear routines for the animals to the organisation of the property. The animals were a true joy to care for. Pepe, the Spanish Mastiff, is a magnificent gentle giant with the heart of a puppy. He takes his duty of guarding the property very seriously, and his watchful presence makes you feel incredibly safe in this peaceful, remote valley. Ludi is a lovely, independent cat who knows exactly when to ask for a good petting session and will happily curl up on your lap. He has a charming habit of waiting for you after a walk to claim his cuddles! The hens are very low-maintenance and reward you with delicious fresh eggs every morning—a wonderful treat. The property itself is a fantastic villa, well equipped with all the key appliances and, crucially for a remote location, a very strong internet connection. While the property is large and requires attention, Mark and Deborah's instructions are so clear that it never feels overwhelming. They are incredibly responsive and supportive hosts; Mark is like a real-life Jarvis, always just a message away with expert guidance on any technical aspect of the house, from the irrigation system to the swimming pool. You never feel like you're on your own. Our stay was incredibly peaceful. We enjoyed the stunning swimming pool, the spacious outdoor areas, and the amazing comfort of the villa's interior. The surrounding area is a quiet valley with a pleasant climate, perfect for nature lovers. A car is essential for getting around, but the best hikes with amazing viewpoints are accessible right from the front door. The neighbors are also warm and helpful, which adds to the sense of community. It was a truly amazing experience to cross paths with Mark and Deborah and their wonderful home. Future sitters: you can be sure that you will be in the very best of hands and, more importantly, in wonderful company. We couldn't recommend this sit more highly!
Jesus, United Kingdom, July 2025