Casa Rural Molino Del Arriero

The bed was the biggest problem, especially the mattress, which was incredibly uncomfortable and really needs replacing. The sheets had a strong smell of chola beans, and there was a sewage smell in the bathroom. The house itself is pretty, almost farmhouse-like, with a lovely patio. The room wasn’t bad, but its decor was terribly tasteless.

We waited more than 15 minutes at the bar and nobody came to serve us, so we left without ordering. Someone said, “Normal,” as though this happens all the time... 🫤🫤🫤

We went in for breakfast at 10 a.m. and were ignored for quite a while after ordering. The man seemed annoyed, and when we called him over for help he rudely said there was nothing for breakfast, even though people inside and on the terrace were eating. We settled for a coffee with milk, but he put it in a tiny cup that looked like a toy, despite having the regular-sized cups used all over Spain. The other customers were from the town and the neighboring one, so it felt like people from elsewhere weren’t welcome. I’m from a town about 8 km away, and I don’t know why he seemed to think I was an outsider. Where someone lives shouldn’t affect the service they get. The discrimination we experienced made no sense.

We had a really good stay this weekend, two couples in all. The rooms are a little small, as you can tell from the photos, but there’s a heater that warms them well despite the noise it can make. This is a very charming country house. There was a small party in the bar while we were there, apparently for the village festival or something, but nothing going on out in the street. We could hear some music in the rooms, though it was bearable and didn’t bother us too much. The food was a highlight. The restaurant is small and comfortable, and we had a great lunch and breakfast. Service can take a little while since everything’s made fresh. For dinner, which we’d reserved, we had Russian salad, homemade croquettes, and wild boar with porcini mushrooms. It was delicious and very homemade, with generous portions. Dinner for four came to about €70. The café doesn’t open until 7 pm. At breakfast they brought us huge slices of freshly baked country bread with jam, butter, and tomato, plus muffins. It’s such a peaceful place, though there isn’t much to do or see nearby. It’s good for hiking and getting some quiet. The house is on the outskirts of Astorga, about 20 km away, and I’d definitely return, especially for the food.