La Cuesta de La Borracha
About La Cuesta
La Cuesta is regarded by many shooting aficionados as simply the best partridge shoot in Spain for consistently showing high testing partridges over a wide range of countryside from open plains to mountain sides.
The deep canyons and high cliffs certainly help to show very testing birds but the key ingredient for success is the strength, age and health of these birds which is due to the sound husbandry and Spanish sunshine.
The season runs from the 1st October to the 6th March and shooting game on Sundays is permitted in Spain. October and early November is regarded by many as the perfect time to shoot in Spain as there is a natural lull between the end of the grouse season and the start of the pheasant season. February and March dates are also much in demand as shooting seasons for other game close. Great sport can also be had in the depths of winter, often with snow on the mountain tops and hanging in North facing gullies. Flying to Spain for a couple of days shooting can be easier than travelling a distance in the UK on dark winter nights!
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The ultimate destination for serious game shots
Read The Field's article on La Cuesta
Location
Finca La Cuesta lies at the end of a 6km private drive; a true camino rural which starts at the village of Puebla del Principe and ends at the La Cuesta community. The finca itself enjoys a commanding position at the top of a hill with far reaching views over the estate itself and the far sierras of Andalucia.
The property lies in the South of the Ciudad Real region of La Mancha, 200 km due South of Madrid and close to the border with Jaen. The main agriculture of the region is Olives, Grapes and cereals.
Madrid is the preferred port of entry and the drive from the airport can take less than 3 hours. However we advise our guests to break the journey South at a suitable restaurant; the city of Aranjuez is a favourite location for many.
Mindful of the busy schedules of many clients, the estate owner Jesus Muela has built a 2km runway to accommodate private jets. There is also a helipad at the finca for internal transfers.
The shooting area
The shooting area at La Cuesta extends to approximately 20,000 Ha and travelling around the property is easy in the fleet of 4wd vehicles. Gun stands are all on level ground and each guest is supplied with a highly experienced Cargador (Loader) and Secretario (Bird boy) who look after their Principal for the duration of their shoot. Most teams number 6 – 8 guns but it is possible to shoot with more or less guns in the line. Peg sharing is quite acceptable.
Daily bags are large by U.K. standards being a minimum of 600 birds per day, regardless of the number of guns shooting.
Tacos in the field after the second drive is followed after say the 4th or 5th drive by a substantial lunch in a converted house overlooking the mountains. On the last day of shooting, lunch is back at La Cuesta to allow guests time to shower, change and pack before returning to Madrid or the airport at the end of their stay.
Accommodation
Accommodation at the Finca is particularly comfortable; all 16 spacious rooms (10 suites & 6 double bedrooms) are adjoined by large bathrooms with bath and shower. There is also a Health Spa with Gym/ weight training equipment, running machines and cross trainers etc. Saunas, hammans, ice bath and 2 massage suites complete the Wellness centre.
A large salon with central open fire place and adjoining bar area are a great place to relax before and after dinner. An adjoining dining room and small library complete the public rooms.
The excellent cuisine is complimented by great Spanish wines.