Gran Hotel Pelayo ★★★★

Lying not far from the coastline and the Bay of Biscay, the Picos de Europa National Park is filled with soaring jagged peaks and wide valleys. Underneath the earth lie some of the deepest caves in Europe and a number of natural springs. With 14 peaks stretching over 2,600 metres, it’s quite a site to behold.

At the edge of this natural wonderland you’ll find Covadonga and its sanctuary – the holy cave of Our Lady of Covadonga, where it is said the Virgin Mary appeared to a Visigoth nobleman man named Pelayo. In the very spot in the cave, Pelayo created a shrine to the Virgin along with a nearby monastery and chapel. The buildings were rebuilt several times over the years, but the current Basilica was consecrated in 1901. Covadonga is also a notable location for being the site of a major Spanish victory over the Moors in the early 8th century and is often considered to be the start of the reconquista of Spain – a 750-year battle to regain control of the country.

Overlooking this impressive coral coloured Cathedral, backed by craggy green mountains is where you’ll find your accommodation – a grand and classic hotel with over 100 years of experience tending to guests and named after Pelayo himself.

In your room you’ll discover a cosy and warming space in colours of cream with splashes of crimsons and tangerines. Antique wood furniture, gilt edged mirrors and paintings remind you of the history of the hotel and bring a touch of elegance and class.

Each morning, wake up to these mesmerising views and a hearty breakfast before going out and exploring it all for yourself. One thing you simply can’t miss is a visit to the Covadonga Museum to discover all about the cave shrine and the Basilica itself – and since the entry ticket is included in your stay, you have no excuse!

After your fill of history and architecture, it’s time to get active in the Picos de Europa National Park. How about a paddle around the stunning glacial Covadonga Lakes in kayaks or canoes, a nature hike through the park or even a spot of mountaineering for the most adventurous?

Because of its coastal location, Asturias is well known for its fresh seafood such a crab, squid and sea bass. It is also a big farming and dairy province and produces around 24 different types of cow, goat and sheep cheese. Some of its most famous dishes include Fabada Asturiana – a bean and sausage casserole, caldereta – a seafood stew and hake and salmon cooked in Asturias’s renowned cider. Guests will get the chance to try some of these dishes and fill up after a busy day at the hotel restaurant – a refined dining space serving top quality local cuisine.

After dinner, make your way to the hotel bar for a drink (perhaps a local sparkling cider) while looking out across the immense mountains of the Picos de Europa. Reflecting on your time at the hotel, it’s here you’ll realise what a unique and exceptional corner of Spain Asturias really is.