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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Spain

Accommodation Types

Accommodation Variety

  • Hotels

    From simple family-run Hostales to upscale boutique hotels, especially in Cangas de Onís or Potes.

  • Casas Rurales (Rural Houses)

    Beautifully restored traditional stone houses, offering authentic rural experiences.

  • Apartamentos Turísticos

    Self-catering apartments with kitchens and living areas, good for longer stays or groups.

  • Refugios de Montaña (Mountain Huts)

    Basic dorm accommodation in high mountain areas, often with half-board options. A communal experience.

Specialty Stays

  • Casonas Asturianas/Montañesas

    Historic rural mansions converted into upscale hotels, often with elegant gardens.

  • Agroturismo

    Many Casas rurales function as agroturismo, part of working farms, offering local insights.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Widely found on platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, privacy and kitchen facilities available.

  • Community-Based Tourism

    Staying in family-run Casas rurales connects you directly with local life and culture.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Picos de Europa has a distinct character, with access to different parts of the park.

Cangas de Onís

Benefits
  • Base for Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary.
  • Good access to western Ruta del Cares.
  • Restaurants, shops, lively evenings.
  • Historic charm with modern elements.
Drawbacks
  • Busy in high season.
  • Parking difficulties.
  • Higher accommodation prices.
  • Further from eastern Picos.

Potes

Benefits
  • Base for Fuente Dé and Liebana Valley.
  • Picturesque historic center.
  • Good food and local products.
  • Relaxed atmosphere.
Drawbacks
  • Busy during peak times.
  • Longer drive for Asturian side.
  • Winding, slow roads.

Arenas de Cabrales

Benefits
  • Access to Poncebos and Ruta del Cares.
  • Authentic Asturian feel.
  • Cabrales cheese producers.
  • Good choice for hikers.
Drawbacks
  • Fewer amenities and dining.
  • Quiet evenings.
  • Limited parking.

Additional Considerations

Safety Notes

All Picos de Europa areas are generally very safe regarding crime. Mountain road safety (weather, terrain) is a main focus.

Noise Levels

Cangas de Onís and Potes offer lively summer evenings. Smaller villages (Arenas de Cabrales, Bulnes) are very quiet.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation in Picos de Europa with these booking tips for a smooth stay.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (July-August): Book 3-6 months in advance for all accommodation types, especially popular rural houses and mountain refugios.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, Sep-Oct): Booking is recommended 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekends.
  • Low Season (Nov-April): Less critical for advance booking, though some places may close.
  • Seasonal prices are significantly higher in July and August.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

  • Trusted platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb find hotels, rural houses, and apartments.
  • For Refugios, book directly via their websites or regional mountain federations.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not customary for hotels or professional Casas rurales.
  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary; always review them before confirming. Refugios often have strict policies.

Planning your stay

Proximity to Attractions
  • Cangas de Onís and Potes are central for park access.
  • Poncebos and Fuente Dé offer direct trailhead access.
Homestay/Community
  • Family-run Casas rurales offer interaction with local families.
  • You learn about their way of life.
  • You receive personalized recommendations.
  • This supports community-based tourism.

Camping Regulations

Designated campsites

Official campsites are the only legal option for camping within and around Picos de Europa.

Wild Camping

Generally prohibited within the National Park to preserve the environment.

Bivouacking

Specific rules for high-altitude bivouacking apply (e.g., above 2000m, dusk to dawn only, no fires).

Accommodation Recommendations

Find your ideal stay in Picos de Europa, from budget-friendly options to luxurious retreats and family-friendly rural houses.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget: Refugio Urriellu Mountain Hut

Basic dorm beds, half-board available. Direct access to high-altitude trails. A truly immersive mountain experience.

  • Booking well in advance recommended for summer.
  • Be prepared for communal living.
  • Basic facilities.
Mid-range: Hotel Los Lagos Nature Cangas de Onís

Comfortable rooms, modern amenities, good location for Covadonga and town center.

  • Often includes breakfast.
  • Solid base for western Picos.

Luxury & Unique Stays

Luxury: Parador de Cangas de Onís

Housed in a beautifully restored monastery by the Sella River. High-end amenities, elegant rooms, historic ambiance.

  • Luxurious and tranquil experience.
  • Central location for Asturian Picos.
Cultural/Historical: Renovated Casas Rurales

Many properties meticulously maintain traditional architecture, stone walls, and wooden beams.

  • Genuine sense of place.
  • Local heritage.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Casas Rurales or Apartamentos Turísticos

    Ideal with multiple bedrooms, living spaces, and kitchen facilities. Consider properties with gardens or play areas.

  • Campsites

    Many official campsites have family-friendly facilities, including playgrounds and pools in summer.

  • Self-Catering

    Cooking facilities support family meals and budget management.

  • Motorhome Friendly

    Campsites also cater to motorhomes, providing necessary hookups.

Solo Travelers & Long Stays

  • Solo Travelers: Hostels & Mountain Refugios

    Opportunities to meet other hikers and travelers, communal atmosphere. Refugios are good for finding hiking partners.

  • Solo Travelers: Guesthouses

    Smaller guesthouses (Pensiones or family-run Casas rurales) may provide a personal experience and local insights.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Casas Rurales and Apartamentos Turísticos suit longer stays (a week or more), with kitchen facilities and a homely feel.

  • Immersive Extended Stays

    Consider renting a property in a smaller, quieter village for an authentic extended stay.

Additional Notes on Stays

Availability Alerts

Always check current availability and reviews before finalizing your booking. Demand changes with seasons.

  • Peak season sees limited last-minute options.
  • Shoulder seasons offer more flexibility.
  • Low season can have closures.
Local Experiences
  • Interaction with hosts.
  • Local recommendations.
  • Authentic atmosphere.

Affiliate Resources for Booking

Global Platforms

Find diverse accommodation worldwide on Booking.com and Agoda.

Hotel Chains & Rentals

Explore options from IHG Hotels or vacation rentals on Vrbo.

Budget & Unique Stays

Discover budget options at Hostelworld or house/pet sitting exchanges via TrustedHousesitters.