El Molino Del Batan

The people working there were doing what they could with limited resources, but the owner is in Madrid promoting the rural hostel. It needs a lot more investment before it’s ready, though the idea is lovely. Otherwise, it should go to someone who can make it work properly. And if the goal is to make money, why not have food available for the staff to cook and charge for it? We had to drive into town at night to find a hot meal. El Catacaldos was charming and welcoming, and the bacalao, una's croquetas, and red wine were great. Having food on site would be so much easier for guests. The setting is charming, but the rooms aren’t ready to rent out as they are. We were there in January. The person in charge tried to help with the heater, but we spent the night on the bed feeling damp and as if we were being electrocuted, afraid to move until 6 a.m. Noise from people talking in the next room and the halls came straight into ours. They should warn guests that they might freeze during their stay. Maybe it works as a charity place where you stay at your own risk, but not as a paid room. I did the Camino de Santiago in 2016, and this reminded me of an albergue at El Burgo Ranero where I nearly froze, then had to wash my face with freezing water in the morning. That was a nightmare, though at least it cost me 10 euros. One thing is an old-fashioned charm, another is being literally back in time. It needs TLC and a lot more preparation. I can see the beautiful concept, but it’s only halfway there.