Santiago Apostol De Redondela

There were bedbugs in the room, including on the pillows. We told reception and were moved upstairs, but found more bugs there too. The receptionist didn’t seem very bothered. The kitchen was also pretty bare, the bathrooms a bit icky, and some beds had no plug sockets.

The basics are solid: real sheets, a washer that won’t cost you a euro, and a clean kitchen. The staff were kind, efficient, and around when needed. Still, the little comforts pilgrims might want have been missed. The top floor gets sauna-hot, and an emergency light shines all night like an interrogation lamp. There’s no freezer, lounge, or patio for a cold drink and a rest. In bed, you’re an arm’s length from your neighbor, close enough to smell their bad breath as if it were part of the Camino sacrament. It could have been great, but it’s just okay.

There may be free laundry, and the facilities are great, but no one showed us around, so you have to find them yourself. There’s a large area at the back on the first floor with extra showers and toilets. Otherwise, it’s just one per floor, shared by maybe 22 bunks. Keep the windows shut at night, the church bells ring until 11pm.

We were four and shared two bunk beds. The showers had good hot water, and the kitchen was really well equipped. The albergue was neat and very clean, with laundry available and a modern feel that still kept the spirit of the Camino. The sister at the front desk was more than friendly. There’s useful information on the board downstairs, and the main door uses a secure key. Great value for money, and I highly recommend it.