Hotel Rural Posada San Pelayo

The property itself is beautiful and meticulously cared for, with a river and mountains in the background. The accommodation was very clean, and you can tell the owners take pride in the place. Still, I wouldn’t stay here again. The wife seemed annoyed that we were there, while her husband was friendly and smiling; we managed to communicate with him, though neither owner speaks English. The double balcony room’s bed wasn’t comfortable, and as others have said, you can hear every step, conversation and other sound throughout the house at any hour, day or night. One night it got very cold, and we couldn’t get the radiator working. When we asked the woman, she said the radiators don’t work. I don’t know if that was true or if they switch them off at certain times of year to save money, but being told we’d just have to be cold was off-putting. Breakfast was disappointing too. Instead of the pancakes other guests mentioned, we got one shared plate with two or three scrambled eggs total for two people and a few slices of cold ham. The place looks like something out of a fairy tale, but the experience wasn’t enjoyable as a hotel, and the beautiful area isn’t unique to this property. Next time we’re in the area, I’d rent a house instead.

You’ll need transport to stay here unless you’re a very fit, enthusiastic walker. There are some great places within a 20 minute drive, so take a drive both up and down the road and around the area. A great cafe/bar is just a 10 minute walk from the hotel, and the menu of the day is great value. In most Spanish and Portuguese cafes, you can get three courses and a bottle of wine for usually under €20 each. Back at this lovely rural retreat in the Picos Mountains, the friendly, accommodating staff, ample parking and some covered parking make things easy. The honesty bar is a lovely idea, though the choices are basic. And if you need an alarm clock, the cow bells will do.

For hiking in the Picos, this is a great place to stay. The cable car is just 20 min away by car. The house is fantastic, and the wonderful couple look after their guests so attentively. Breakfast was great, especially the amazing tomato jam. In summer, you can sit in the garden and enjoy the fantastic mountain backdrop. A very, very big recommendation.

This was such a beautiful find, tucked into the mountains away from the road. The posada is just what you picture when you think of the Spanish countryside. Our rooms were nicely put together, and the staff were warm and helpful. Everything was clean and comfortable, and the pool was warm and inviting, with mountain peaks in the view.