Family gathering (far right): Pilar Pinilla (seated, in grey hat) next to our host Pedro, with his sisters Pilar and Isabel. Pilar Sr has happy memories of playing as a child at the beautiful home built in 1919 by her grandfather, industrialist Federico Pinilla, inspired by the architecture of northern Spain
Pilar Corchado (also pictured far right), the eldest of the three siblings, at the shady entrance to the property with her family – husband Diego and their children Clara, Diego and Pilar.
The home is surrounded by lush greenery, nurtured lovingly by green-fingered Pilar
PILAR’S SHIRT & SKIRT:
T.BA
Amid vineyards and olive groves in the heart of Spain’s La Mancha region lies magical Monte Arenas, home of the Pinilla family. Starting with Federico Pinilla, who built the estate in 1919, five generations have enjoyed it, and three of them gather to welcome us today.
Federico’s granddaughter Pilar, who has happy memories of visits to the house as a child, now loves nothing more than to throw open the doors to her own large clan of children and grandchildren.
Luckily there is room here for everyone and the gorgeous grounds – with their shady trees, chapel, wine cellars and pavilion – are the perfect place for celebrations.
Nor do the family need to look far for help in planning their festivities. Pilar’s son Pedro Corchado is one of the country’s top events experts, who even set the scene for King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia’s 2004 wedding banquet.
Here, he reveals to us why he’s been dubbed a “magician” and why, for him, the greatest enchantment happens right here at home.
Pedro, are you and your siblings based here in La Mancha?