Hostal Lopenea

We found a lot of information about Basque culture and language in this cute little town. After a long drive and a very late call, Jon was there to greet us with a smile at Hostel Rural Lopenea Ostatua. Our simple room was spotless, and the cafe and bar downstairs had locals and other travelers eating and drinking. Breakfast was great too, especially the food and coffee. Thanks, Jon, for helping us out that night!

The staff were friendly, but that didn't make the price feel worthwhile. We paid 75 euros, and apparently it would have been 105 on a weekend. For that money, the breakfast was average and the place needed a better clean. The bathroom had mold and needed new caulk, and the towels smelled damp, a humidity issue that others have mentioned too. The room itself was okay but very basic, with an ordinary mattress, no AC, and a fleece blanket with sheets instead of a proper duvet. We also would have wanted separate pillows instead of one long pillow across the bed. If the room and rest of the place had been cleaner, with proper bedding and fresh towels, and the price were 60 euros, this might have earned four stars. As it was, we regretted staying. The good ratings had given me the wrong impression, and all we got was an average bed for a hefty price.

Our room on the second floor was hot, and we could only open half the windows because a streetlight shone right onto the bed. Outside noise continued past midnight, with trucks passing now and then, so we didn't sleep well. One of us had to leave early. Although the staff had kindly stored our bicycle, we couldn't get it until the bar staff arrived close to 7:30, an hour later than we needed it. The location was good and the staff were friendly, but they weren't helpful in the end. We were quoted €70 by phone, then charged €75 when we arrived an hour later. We wouldn't recommend it.

The village has the shops and cafes we needed while bike touring, and there was good bike storage at the hostel. Jon was a great host, easy to chat with. The place was clean and comfortable, with up-to-date conveniences, and really good value. One tip: the public fountain facing the hostel is handy for washing mud off your bike.