Beautiful, natural setting at the foot of the Picos de Europa Mountains
Lodge-like, cozy rooms with mountain views and some balconies
Wildly popular restaurant serves Cantabrian dishes and generous breakfast spread
Big, outdoor pool and tennis courts among manicured garden grounds
Affordable prices for the level of luxury
Free Internet terminal and free Wi-Fi throughout
Cozy lounge with books, television, and billiards
No air-conditioning
Charge for breakfast
Rural location can be inconvenient
Internet can be unreliable
Hotel del Oso is a luxury property with affordable rates and a welcoming staff, located a short drive from the Picos de Europa Mountains. Natural beauty and the excellent on-site restaurant are the main draws here -- the restaurant is known to fill up with locals who gather for the traditional Cantabrian cuisine. Nicely manicured grounds include an unheated swimming pool, gardens, and recreational facilities like a playground and tennis court. Rooms are decorated simply but luxuriously in a lodge theme with pine furnishings. Check out Hotel Rural Arpa de Hierba as another unique lodging option -- it's closer to the beach but further from the mountains.
Scene
Idyllic mountain hotel
Hotel del Oso means bear hotel in Spanish and guests will see nods to grizzlies throughout the property, from an image on the bottom of the swimming pool to the room keys. The hotel itself is divided into two stone and wooden buildings designed to mimic traditional homes in the area. The overall vibe is definitely relaxed with an emphasis on outdoor activities both in the nearby Picos de Europa Mountains and on the lush grounds themselves. You probably won't encounter a bear at the hotel, but there are two very friendly St. Bernards who spend most of their time sleeping on the stone front steps.
Location
In Liébana Valley at the foot of the Picos de Europa Mountains
Guests choose to stay at Hotel del Oso because they're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. The property is built on a long stretch of road leading up to the Picos de Europa Mountains. While there is some minor traffic of cars driving up the mountains, guests report peace and quiet at the hotel. There isn't much to see and do (besides nature) within walking distance of the property, so a car is a requirement. If you're looking to stay a bit closer to the coast, check out rates at Rural Arpa de Hierba.
Rooms
Lodge style with some balconies and modern bathrooms
Rooms at Hotel del Oso aren't flashy but they are clean, cozy, and comfortable with pine floors, beams, and furniture. Twin and double beds are available. Some past guests have complained the rooms are on the smaller side. Flat-screen TVs and white marble bathrooms with full tubs are nice touches. A balcony room is definitely an upgrade and there aren't any bad views in the house thanks to the hotel's pretty grounds and the mountains in the distance. No rooms have air-conditioning.
Features
Cantabrian restaurant and a swimming pool
The Hotel del Oso Restaurant serves Cantabrian style meals from friendly female servers donned in traditional costumes. Though there's a charge for breakfast, the generous spread includes homemade pastries and strong coffee. Dinner draws locals and guests alike. Outdoor facillities include an unheated swimming pool, tennis court, and children's playground. Inside, there's a free Internet terminal and cozy living room with billiards and books. Wi-Fi is available throughout but the signal can be unreliable.