Hotel Villa La Argentina

The view was spectacular! We loved the natural decor and private balcony. I noted in the Lonely Planet guide that it said the hotel was "ugly". I disagree and thoroughly loved it. All paradors do not have to be historic stone structures! The view far out-weighed the need for utilizing a historic building.

I did not like the playground equipment outside the window. It spoiled the natural feel of the mountain view.

The Villa is an old house that has been very tastefully restored. Our room was large, the beds were very comfortable, everything worked well in the bathroom, the large windows opened on to a pleasant view including another period house opposite. The Villa is set on high ground above and to the east of the lovely small town of Luarca, within a 10 minute walk or a 5 minute drive and park. There is a small swimming pool with sun loungers that we used on one afternoon, plus a spa and a weights room. We had 4 very pleasant nights there. During the day it was easy to get to a number of good beaches not far away, or to visit a city like Gijon.

Apart from the price, which seemed a little expensive compared with others that we found on this trip, the only small criticism I would make is of the breakfast. At a hotel charging this rate I would expect a proper buffet breakfast instead of the three different types offered. However, if these aren't to one's taste, Luarca has some very good places where you can buy exactly what you want.