The estate in winter
No pool, but a fireplace, a wood-fired oven and heating throughout the house. Why October to April is Finca La Simona's best overlooked season.
Most photos and reviews of the estate are from summer, with the pool as the star, but the house changes character in winter without losing anything that makes it work for a large group. A fireplace, a wood-burning stove, a wood-fired oven and heating throughout turn October to April into a different season, not a scaled-down version of summer.
What changes in winter
- The salt-water pool closes from mid-September to late May, depending on the weather.
- The living room with the fireplace and the games room with the wood-burning stove become the heart of the house.
- The dining room with the wood-fired oven allows roasts and long meals typical of the cold season.
- Heating throughout the house, so the cold outside is no issue for sleeping or for the common areas.
Winter plans nearby
- The Sierra de San Vicente, with the chestnut trees changing color in autumn, is one of the best times of year to visit.
- Toledo and Talavera are just as enjoyable in winter, with fewer tourists than in high season.
- Puy du Fou España runs a reduced calendar outside high season: check opening dates before planning your visit.
- The Barrancas de Burujón, with less heat and low winter light on the short afternoons, offer particularly good sunsets in winter.
Who the winter season suits
October to April is the natural season for large family gatherings (Christmas, New Year, Easter) and for company retreats, which specifically look for the estate free on weekdays. It is also the best time for anyone who prefers a quieter atmosphere, with fewer people in the surrounding villages and standard rates outside the special dates.
Why it's worth booking in winter
Winter season usually sees less demand than summer at most rural houses, which in practice means more available dates and less pressure to book months ahead, except around Christmas and Easter. For a group looking for quiet, without a pool-weekend crowd in the surrounding area, October to April offers the same house and the same catering service, at a much slower pace. It is also, for the same reason, a good season to negotiate flexible dates for a company retreat or a family gathering that does not have to fall on a weekend, when the estate would otherwise sit empty between one weekend booking and the next.
FAQ
Can the pool be used in winter?
No, the salt-water pool is seasonal and closes roughly from mid-September to late May.
Is the house cold in winter?
No, there is heating throughout the house, plus a fireplace and a wood-burning stove in the common areas.
Is it a good time for Christmas and family gatherings?
Yes, it is the natural season for these dates; see the Christmas at the estate page for more details.
Coming as a group
If you are planning the visit to The estate in winter with a large group, the estate is right there: the whole house for 12 to 16 people, six en-suite bedrooms and a saltwater pool shared with no one.
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Do you all fit? Check dates
Send us the dates and how many you are. Nacho will call you, answer any questions and confirm. Nothing is charged until then.