Just a few hours away from the not so bright lights of London, a stay at the Hotel Almenara, Sotogrande is within easy reach says LEAH SIMPSON

Only a quarter of an hour's drive from the Rock of Gibraltar - a British overseas territory - this refreshingly outdoorsy hotel is at the entrance of the beautiful Mediterranean.

Once you’ve crossed the border into Spain you’ll find that breathtaking views of the harbour will leave you in the mood for relaxing stay at the 148-room - and four star - golf and spa hotel.

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WHAT CAN I DO?
In addition to the spa, guests can also enjoy the fitness centre and exercise gym with state-of-the-art gym equipment. OK! also recommends taking advantage of the Equestrian Centre where guests can take lessons or ride sure footed Andalucian horses at sunset. Led by ex-polo player Ferdie, we knew were in expert hands.
 
For keen golfers, the 27-hole Almenara golf course designed by Dave Thomas is built across a stunning natural landscape, featuring two large lakes surrounded by pine, cork and oak trees to work on your handicap.

For guests who aren’t experienced enough to hit the green quite yet, off-course lessons are available. With exactly the same beautiful views on offer as the pros get to enjoy, amateurs can hack about on their own personal spot of turf without the glaring eyes of others.

WHAT STARS MIGHT I SEE?
Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas have been spotted taking advantage of the high security private beach. And the resort are expecting a lot more this summer.

WHERE CAN I EAT?
The hotel boasts three amazing restaurants, guaranteed to leave your gut satisfied.

Veintee Ocho inside 28 club house is the perfect spot for a typical Spanish lunch of tapas. The restaurant has a separate lounge and bar area so adults and children can dine together and enjoy their own space afterwards with the kids in easy reach.

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With its eclectic menu, friendly service and incomparable setting, the Cucurucho Beach Club is Sotogrande's favorite destination for poolside dining. We urge you to go see why the Cucurucho Beach Club and its restaurant have earned the reputation as one of the area's favourite family gathering spots. An eclectic menu means there's always an array of delicious dishes available, and includes an expansive list of a la carte items, an assortment of tasty tapas, and the popular gourmet buffet.
 
Finally there's Gaia. A semicircular staircase leads guests to the elegant dining room, where warm colours and rich wood floors give way to oversized windows and an expansive terrace with stunning views. The restaurant’s grand design does not diminish its cosy and intimate atmosphere, welcoming guests with comfortable chairs and candlelit place settings.

The menu is the brainchild of Christian Puigros Baldowsky, whose impressive resume includes stints at some of the most respected restaurants both inside and outside of Spain.

Enjoy exceptional Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere at Gaia where guests can sample delightful cuisine including a starter of crunchy lasagne with red tuna and soya sauce, loins of grouper with parmesan risotto and truffle oil for mains and Ferrero Rocher cake with custard for desert.
 
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Low fares airline Monarch flies to Gibraltar from London Luton, and Manchester airports. For more information or to book flights, visit www.monarch.co.uk

Transfer from Gibraltar airport to NH Hotel Almenara is 15 minutes by car. Airport transfers are available on request and the hotel offers a car rental service.

The resort is offering a 5 per cent discounted rate on special advanced bookings. Prices start from €107.41 per night for a Superior Room only (breakfast not included). Please note that this is a Prepaid rate. The reservation cannot be modified or cancelled. In no-show cases the total price of the stay will be charged.

For more information visit: http://www.nh-hotels.com/