Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself (and if applicable, your family members | name, age, place of residence)?

My name is Maaike van Diemen. I live with my husband Patrick in Breda. As an interior designer, I work on both private and commercial projects, both locally and internationally. My husband Patrick works in the sports industry, and our children both work and study in Amsterdam.

We’d like to share more about you as a person with our customers. Could you tell us more about yourself? For instance: your interests, hobbies, work, family, vacations?

Since 2003, I have been working as an interior designer, always striving to bring warmth and ambiance to my designs. My style is recognizable for its mix of old and new furniture from various regions, combined with diverse materials. Together with my family, we’ve traveled extensively, but ultimately we settled in Spain, where we now spend time regularly at Casa Palmar. We love hiking, cycling, exploring the beaches, and visiting charming places. The stunning nature, the year-round sunny climate, and the wonderful restaurants around us make our vacations extraordinary. The house and its surroundings provide an escape from our daily routines, allowing us more time together.

When and how did this accommodation come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

Spain has always been our favorite vacation destination. We’ve visited the Costa Blanca many times, and when we decided to buy a home abroad, the choice was easy. The Marina Alta, where Casa Palmar is located, offers fantastic weather year-round and is the healthiest region in Europe. Additionally, the locals here are incredibly friendly and happy. We wanted to create a family home where we could all come together, and that’s exactly what we found in Casa Palmar.

Could you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your accommodation?

When we first saw the house, we immediately fell in love with its charm, despite it being a bit outdated. The location, surrounded by greenery, the beautiful garden, and its proximity to the beaches, mountains, and charming towns gave us a great feeling. We fully modernized the house and adapted the garden to reflect the region's style, using local craftsmen. Although they were used to sleek, modern designs, they joyfully crafted some of the more traditional kitchen cabinets for us. It was important to us that the house exuded warmth and hospitality right after renovation. We achieved this by incorporating antique elements into the interior and by paying attention to the lighting.

What makes your accommodation truly special for you? Are there special memories or moments that make it especially dear to you?

Every time we are at Casa Palmar, we feel truly happy. Our children and friends often drop by because they share the same feeling. We thoroughly enjoy the swimming pool, the massive palms in the garden, the lush green views, and the tranquility. Yet, within a few minutes, we can be in the lively centers of Moraira and Benissa. It’s a place where we truly come together, and the energy here makes it extra special.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your accommodation?

At Casa Palmar, we’ve combined old elements with contemporary comfort. We’ve scoured many flea markets and antique stores to find unique items that give character to the house. These include antique pots and doors that we’ve hand-scraped to make them stand out. In the garden, we’ve created various zones where we can eat, relax, and enjoy drinks at a cozy bar. When floating on an air mattress amidst the palm trees, it almost feels like being in the tropics. The sound of wild boars in the distance, which resemble monkeys, adds an extra unique touch to the experience.

Which part of your accommodation do you find the most beautiful and why?

One of our favorite spots indoors is the cozy indoor bar, where we often play games with a good glass of wine and delicious local cheeses. Outdoors, we absolutely enjoy the fully-equipped outdoor kitchen with a bar, centrally located in the garden, and the comfortable seating areas. The lounge area is a favorite among our children. They can relax and enjoy the sun until late into the night. My husband loves the sauna and the pool, where he takes a refreshing dip every morning, even in the winter!

What makes the location of your accommodation unique and special?

Casa Palmar is located in a lush, peaceful area, just a few minutes away from the beautiful beaches of the Costa Blanca. In 10 minutes, you can reach idyllic sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day. The beaches are also perfect for various watersports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. In the hinterland, you’ll find picturesque villages like Llíber and Xaló, which offer an authentic Spanish atmosphere. Additionally, there are wonderful restaurants in nearby towns like Benissa, Moraira, and Javea, and Xaló has a vibrant Saturday market. The combination of beach, mountains, and the sunny, stable microclimate makes this location ideal for relaxation and adventure.

Are there any sustainable or environmentally-friendly features associated with your accommodation that you are proud of?

This aspect doesn’t currently apply to our property, but we always strive to respect the environment.

What motivated or inspired you to rent out your property to guests?

We really wanted to share this beautiful place with others and allow them to experience the atmosphere and enjoyment that we cherish so much.

In what ways does your accommodation stand out from others? What unique features make it an unforgettable experience for guests?

What makes Casa Palmar unique is its special location, offering a lot of privacy while still being close to all the necessary amenities. The house is furnished with great love and attention to detail, giving it a personal, warm atmosphere. This is something guests won’t find elsewhere.

What is the nicest compliment you've received from a guest?

Most guests mention how beautiful they think the interior is and how complete the house is with everything they need. Some have even been so inspired by their stay that they are considering purchasing a property in the area. One guest said that they originally planned to do many activities, but they ended up enjoying the house so much that they hardly left the property!

What do you hope guests will take away or most remember from their stay at your accommodation?

I hope our guests will be as happy as we are with our house and its surroundings!

Do you have any recommendations for guests to make the most of their holiday? Your valuable tips will be shared on your accommodation's page!

Besides the wonderful beaches of La Fustera and El Portet, the surroundings of Casa Palmar offer countless activities for an active vacation. We often enjoy a visit to the market in Benissa or the farmers’ market in Xaló, followed by a hike in the mountains. The kids love to take their subboards to go into the sea, especially at sunset. It’s also lovely to enjoy a breakfast or lunch with a view of the bay at places like Chiringuito Oh La La or Espigo. For nature lovers, the Paseo Ecológico offers a beautiful route along the coast. Finally, I highly recommend visiting one of the local wineries for a tour and tasting – Montesanco is one of our favorites. Also, check the agendas of the surrounding towns for local festivals – the Spanish love to celebrate, and it’s a great experience! We always finish the day with a drink at the bar or a meal at one of the fantastic restaurants nearby.