As featured in The Times, August 21, 2021

We know that many of you love a road trip! We also know that many of you love to explore places that feel almost undiscovered, “off the beaten track” and with the space and freedom to truly relax. Goodness knows after 2020 what many of us crave is open spaces and natural beauty. But the reality is that you don’t always have the time to plan and research every detail yourself… so that’s where we come in!

This six night itinerary covers the stunning Spanish regions of Asturias and Galicia, staying with two sets of amazing hosts. Benefit from insider tips on Asturias and Galicia whilst you explore for yourself. Read all about it in The Times

We’ve split it into two sections which you can book separately but which can only be booked directly with the guest houses and when you make reference to Further Afield.

Part 1: Explore the national parks, coastline and ancient villages of Asturias

Dave and Javi opened boutique B&B El Gran Sueño in August 2014. Firm believers in the slow hotel philosophy they offer a calm, relaxing, adult-only stay. Their love and incredible knowledge of the area means they can suggest extra activities and help organise your exploration of amazing local cuisine.

Day one

Travel inland (approx. two hours from Santander) and kick off with a short local walk before wandering back for the evening and sampling Dave and Javi’s superb home cooking.

Day two

Explore the stunning coastline, visiting the fishing town of Lastres and Rodiles Beach. Visit the Pre-Romanesque church of  San Salvador de Valdediós a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading on to Torazu, a small parish hamlet of just 250 people and famed for ancient hórreos, farm buildings on stilts that keep farm produce dry throughout the wet winters.

Day three

Drive to the Picos de Europa National Park, visiting the Sanctuary of Covadonga before heading to lakes Enol and Ercina. Enjoy a beautiful circular walk (about 2 hours) before heading to Cangas de Onís.

Price for your stay at El Gran Sueño

Based on two sharing, three nights’ accommodation including organic breakfasts and 3-course dinner on the first night: from €449€ (or €579 for half board for three nights).

Part 2: Escape to the natural splendour of Galicia’s lakes and mountains

Sietske and Tariq are citizens of the world but have settled on the lake shores near Lugo and created the wonderful Casa de Cabaza, offering a true retreat and sanctuary. Theirs is an artistic and creative vibe, with workshops offered throughout the year. They know this region inside out and love to help guests plan the best ways of exploring the beauty and produce in this part of Spain.

Day one

Strike out west along the coast road (taking in harbour towns like Valdés) before heading inland to the ancient city of Lugo. Stop off and explore this stunning city, including its famous walls.

Just 45 minutes is your lakeside oasis at Casa de Cabaza. Kick back, relax and enjoy a tapas dinner with home baked bread, a selection of salads and Galician cheeses.

Day two

Discover the Ribeira Sacra wine region, with its stunning landscapes and bodegas offering tours and tastings, or maybe explore the Miño and Sil rivers by boat or take a mountain bike tour.

Day three

Visit the Courel mountains and Los Ancares Bioreserve for amazing vistas and hiking trails.

Day four

Leaving Casa de Cabaza, no trip to Galicia would be complete without venturing west towards the Medieval city of Santiago de Compostela or travelling south towards ancient León, both of which are around two hours away.

Price for your stay at Casa de Cabaza

Based on two sharing, three nights’ accommodation including organic breakfasts and tapas dinner on the first night: from €260.

T&Cs

A six night itinerary in total, which each three night section being booked with the individual guest house. Each section includes the stated meals and extras and is subject to availability and some price changes.

Each section can be booked separately as a three night stay, but which can only be booked directly with the guest houses and when you make reference to Further Afield.

Flights aren’t included but there are airports at Santander, Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela which would be easy jump off points.