About Us

Andrew Allington

Andrew is an experienced holiday and long-term let property owner (in the UK and abroad, award-winning 5-star-rated host (VRBO, Trip Advisor, Airbnb), project manager, entrepreneur, former Chartered Accountant and qualified probate practitioner, and for most of his working life a Church of England vicar (20+ years in ordained ministry). He is now the business owner/manager of Cortijo Fruitful Hills. See www.BreathingSpaceRentals.com.

During his time in parish ministry, he co-founded and chaired a local community regeneration partnership, helping to initiate many projects attracting multi-million-pound funding to his South Yorkshire former coal mining community. These included a new local drug and alcohol rehabilitation service which Andrew chaired. He also obtained funding to extend his parish church building to incorporate a well-equipped & resourced community centre which hosted a local PCT healthy living project. As a result of the above, in 2012 Andrew received the local Mayor's award for services to his community.

Andrew's work has also been featured in several publications. In 2006 one of Andrew's church projects was highlighted in the book, "Mission shaped spirituality" by Sue Hope. In 2012 there was an article in "Christianity" magazine entitled "God of the Inner City" by Heather Tomlinson focussing on Andrew's parish ministry. Also, in 2012 Andrew was featured in a chapter of the book "Outsiders" by Garry Cooke about inspiring people. Andrew's work was also highlighted by Bishop John B Thomson in his book, "Sharing Friendship", in 2015.

Andrew has also served as Trustee and Treasurer of a Christian educational project in South Sudan and as Treasurer for Friends of Wharfedale Montessori School. Since 2015, with Hazel, they have continued to support a relief organization for displaced refugees in Iraq & Syria, about which Andrew has spoken on local radio.

Andrew loves nature, gardening and creating beautiful spaces. After spending over a year together with Hazel & Grace looking for their current property in Andalucía Southern Spain, Andrew is now working through an extensive to-do list.... never happier than when he has a project on the go!

Andrew is an active member of The Inland Networking and Support Group – Costa Del Sol by Mediterranean Homes - a group of small business owners who come together to advertise, connect and share information & ideas every month.

Fern House, Grassington, Yorkshire Dales, U.K Review: November 2021…
“Wow, wow, wow!! Ok where do I start? The location - its perfect. Situated just behind Main Street, literally 5 seconds from the square and all the fabulous cafes, coffee shops, gift shops etc that make Grassington so unique - and also very close to lots of lovely walks. It really is the perfect spot. The property itself is just as the photos depict, but it’s far bigger and grander in real life. It feels very luxurious and high end but it is also very comfortable and cosy at the same time. The perfect blend! Everything was spotlessly clean and immaculate, the kitchen was well equipped, the bed was unbelievably comfortable and being able to utilise the second bedroom as a relaxing room as well as the living room downstairs is a great idea.
Communication with the owner was excellent, and there was not a single thing we could say that needs changing or improving. There’s nothing that could be done to make the property or the experience better. It was absolutely flawless from start to finish and we are definitely planning on returning in the very near future and staying for longer. This really is a very special place.” ❤️ Sarah

Hazel Allington

Hazel is the co-owner of Cortijo Fruitful Hills and Breathing Space Rentals, which includes Fern House, a popular holiday rental in the historic village of Grassington in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Before embarking on her life with Andrew, Hazel lived in Sydney, Australia, where she worked in the costume departments at the prestigious Australian Opera House and Australia Opera Company, Star Wars Episode II at Fox Studios, and on the costume props for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games opening ceremony. Hazel's passion for adventure also led her to crew aboard exclusive private luxury motor yachts (gin palaces!) in Sydney Harbour and work briefly with the Australian Superbike School.

However, at the age of twenty-two, Hazel's life took an unexpected nose-dive when she was struck down by a mysterious illness that was later diagnosed as severe Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E. and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. The debilitating condition frequently left her house and bed-bound, and at times, close to death.

A cure remained elusive despite seeking medical help and trying many natural therapies. Her battle with this illness spanned over twenty-six years, during which she experienced countless times of profound suffering and loss. However, through this adversity, Hazel's journey turned inward, and she encountered God’s grace and many stark moments of insight and illumination. She became interested in natural health, personal growth, coaching, and spirituality through her journey. Hazel wrote a collection of poems, some professionally published in books by best-selling authors - including celebrity Richard McCann (whose mother was sadly murdered by The Yorkshire Ripper).

Hazel is an intuitive person who treasures peace, nature, and the space to write, read, create and connect with the divine.
She feels deeply blessed by the unexpected journey that led her to Spain and enjoys a life enriched by the many wonderful things Andalucia has to offer.

You can learn more about local Andalucia and the happenings at Cortijo Fruitful Hills on their Facebook Page.