Hotel Torre de Villademoros, Cadavedo, Asturias, Spain - Explore & Book
"You don’t have to be Rapunzel to stay in a tower. And this tower, in the agapanthus-adorned gardens of an 18th-century mansion near the sea, happens to be a pretty special one. It’s medieval - possibly dating as far back as the ninth century - and when owner Manolo Santullano bought it, it was an empty ruin. Since then, he’s filled its ancient stone walls with two luxurious bedrooms, a lounge and a roof terrace with stupendous views. Rooms in the house might be more orthodox, but are equally comfortable, skilfully blending original features like stone walls and timbered ceilings with modern artworks and wooden furnishings - many of them crafted by Manolo’s dad. Downstairs, a flower-decked sitting room has a library, honesty bar and sleek colourful sofas. Relax by the log fire before proceeding to the dining room - or outdoor terrace if it’s warm - where Manolo delivers simple, locally-sourced suppers.This part of Asturias is said to have one of the best-preserved coastlines in Spain. Walk to the local beach (which is nearly always empty), or pop by car to tiny, little-known working ports like Luarca and Puerto de Vega, where the fishermen’s catch is auctioned every afternoon. Inland are time-lost villages where you sample the old Asturias - and Oviedo, the region’s history-steeped capital. Outdoorsy types and history buffs will adore it here. Highs These are truly historic buildings, creatively brought back to life - we could relax in its sitting rooms and gardens for days!Tranquility is yours - there’s no habitation between here and the coast, a short stroll awayYou’re within easy reach of historic Oviedo or coastal gems such as Luarca and CudilleroAsturian-born Manolo is a fabulous hostUnlike most of the rest of Spain, Asturias is green, rugged and lush: a walker’s paradise Lows Mealtimes are late - breakfast starts at 8.30am, while dinner doesn't kick off until 8.30pm. But hey, this is Spain and you'll soon adjust your body clock to fit in with local timingsIt’s slightly tricky to find, so follow the hotel’s directions carefully - Manolo is also planning to improve the signpostingApart from in the tower, showers are all above bathtubs rather than walk-in. But they’re a good sizeDon't expect any facilities on the local beach - it's wild, rocky and wonderfully unspoilt" - Clare Hargreaves
