Legaire Etxea

We were 11 young adults, ages 18 to 26, and had a really fun two-day stay. Jesús was lovely, checked in on us, made sure we had what we needed, and suggested local hiking routes. The owner handed over the keys and showed us the basics on arrival; we didn’t see him again until we left. There were cameras facing the garden, but none inside the house, and we understood them as a security measure. We also didn’t have to pay extra for toilet paper or trash bags, even after running short in some rooms. The heating was on most of the time. There are just two small sofas, with space for two people on each, so a large group may need to use the chairs and tables. That worked fine for us, whether we were playing cards, board games, or having a drink. The house had a microwave, oven, kitchen, TV, garden, a huge living room, and an en-suite bathroom in every bedroom. It’s a big two-storey place. We left relaxed and in a great mood. Thanks, Jesús, for looking after us. We’ll be back. Greetings from Fernando!

There were nine adults, four kids, and a dog on our family getaway. The shared living room and kitchen had plenty of space, and each bedroom had its own bathroom. Everything we needed was there, and the house was beautiful, clean, and warm. The hosts were very friendly. We’re already keen to come back.

I left feeling cheated and deeply distrustful. I’ve rented at least four rural houses a year for several years, and I’ve never felt like an intruder or dealt with so many avoidable problems. I want to believe the owner had a bad experience and was trying to protect what he sees as his, but this stay left a bitter taste. If guests can’t be trusted, perhaps this place needs a serious rethink. The house and location were fine, but the services and privacy were another matter. It was advertised as having all services included, yet signs listed extra-cost services, and even basic things like trash bags were charged separately. Supplies were limited: twelve plates and forks for twelve adults, with children left out of the count, and not enough knives. Using a serving platter would leave someone without a plate. We were made to feel it would be better not to use the barbecue, and though firewood had been promised, we couldn’t find any. Toilet paper was also rationed. Heating was on when we arrived the first day, but not turned back on in the main living area, the biggest and coldest room, on the following days. The garden was filmed without warning, with a camera even pointed at the living room windows. We were there with minors, and I find it intolerable to record guests without permission or even notice. Where do those images go, and what happens to them? We were also told on arrival that we had to leave earlier than planned, for the same price: we paid for three full days but got only a day and a half. While several of us were out driving, we saw the owner hanging around, apparently gathering dry leaves, and peeking through the garden gate at the windows. We suspect someone may have entered the house while we were away.

The house was huge and peaceful, and Jesús was so welcoming. We had an incredible weekend gathering with friends and family. A 10 out of 10, and we’ll be back!