When a ghost town comes back to life it sings and swings!

IT once was a vibrant village, back in the 1900’s, teaming with downtrodden miners and their families. But, when the mines ran out everyone left. It became a ghost town; a deserted hill top of ruins baking in the heat and rotting.

On the far side of the map, down on the beach property prices were rising and finding anything with views was getting impossible until Paul Polansky scouted out and bought El Pinar. Paul had not just a unique vision for strange lands to develop but he gave them their life lines of infrastructure. He advertised for a young couple to join him in Spain for a special adventure. 

They would be given a place for a bar but had to get it up and running. Out of the thousands he picked the right combination. Day and night Roland and Barbara pleased clients and built walls and patios. 

If a visitor made it there they would get the super sales treatment and buy. 

Derelict sites abounded and you could buy them, barter them, trade in your old plane, car, or whatever. It all worked. People came from great distances to get some land or convert an old house. 

It was an investment. One fifth the price of the beach, outstanding views, and even a local bar for entertainment. Adventurous indeed were those first arrivals and just within three years a community was formed. The bar grew, a pool was added, dining room built for serving meals. But, bubbly vivacious Barbara became tragically ill and they decided to sell. Various owners have triumphed. And time’s stuttering steps moved from beer hall to gin palace. 

Right now I am quite sure it’s arrived at its pinnacle. Super excellent food provided by a real English chef, Dean Hill, outstanding service, by Julie Justice and her staff and shows that keep you riveted to your chairs and sharing the love.

My wife and I were totally knocked out. It was a concert played out right in front of us while gorging ourselves and being totally “wowed” by the show, by none other than the “king of swing” Tony Justice! He became Frank Sinatra and I became mesmerised.

It was a hot day but a cool breeze continued to whisper to us. Behind the stage is a huge pool with a cool Alhambra effect. 

The wine chilled just right. As we sipped our way through my thoughts roamed back to eating picnics amongst the ruins. My how the place has evolved into “fitting into the past and still being modern.” Wedding parties bounce in creating swarms of laughter and need be served right away to put something else in their cake holes. Before I’ve reminisced too much Matron Julie is back with the starter. 

Dean’s long talk with me at the Nail is totally justified. His fans agree too. The shows have a routine of alternating local talent: Lady Ellen, Jill Farmiloe. Be sure you book: 634 363 834.