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The Parador of Cangas De Onis, Spain
Parador of Cangas De Onis
The 5-star Parador at Cangas De Onis presents a wonderful
opportunity to combine extraordinary natural surroundings and a
unique cultural experience while staying in a historically
significant and aesthetically beautiful hotel.
The Cangas De Onis Parador is situated on a bend in the stunning
Sella river in the foothills near the mighty Picos de Europa -
among the most rugged and awesome mountain peaks in Europe. The
peacefulness and purity of the countryside here is amazing. The
Parador, formerly the Monastery of San Pedro de Villanueva,
maintains and contributes to the air of tranquility that you
will experience here.
This place played a pivotal part in the history of Spain. At
this exact spot the centuries long re-conquest of Spain by the
Christians over the Moors began. The great historic figure
(whose true history is muddled by legend) who started this fight
was Pelayo - around 722 A.D.. He became the first king of
Asturias and this land was know as "Primorias" until the 9th
century - indicating the 'first birth' - the 'primordial
beginnings' of what was to become what we know of as Spain.
The Parador was founded in the 8th century as a monastery by
Alfonso I and his wife - the daughter of Pelayo. During the
rehabilitation of the Monastery of San Pedro de Villanueva, many
artifacts from the various stages in the history of this place
were unearthed and rediscovered. Two rooms in the Parador have
been set aside as museum display rooms for these artifacts.
The Parador at Cangas De Onis is the perfect base from which
to do several fascinating day trips to . . .
- The Basilica at Covadongas standing serene in its own isolated
valley is a must-see and makes for a very enjoyable half-day
excursion.
- The Picos de Europa Park was the very first national park in
Spain. The Picos de Europa are mountains of unmatched grandeur
and worthy of several days of pleasant exploration. These are
among the most rugged mountains in all Europe and still provide
home to bear, wild boar, ermine, mountain goat and golden eagles
- among many, many other species. There are several "routes"
into the mountains - try the Cares Route - and try to stop at
the Mirador de Frito and the Mirador de la Reina for incredible
panoramic views that stretches from sea to mountain peaks.
- The beaches along the coast here are not to be missed - you
can usually find one that you'll have all to yourself. Drive to
Buelna beach, Toro beach, Toranda beach, Antolin beach - and
there are dozens of others awaiting to be discovered.
- The Sella river is one of Spain's prettiest and provides great
fishing, kayaking, and hiking opportunities.
- There are
fascinating pre-historic and Paleolithic cave
paintings at Tito Bustillo and Buxu, as well as the the rock art
at Peña Tu.
- The many examples of Gothic and Romanesque churches are too
numerous to list, but the front desk at the Parador will give
you maps and point you in the right direction.
- There are three excellent golf courses in the vicinity at
Ribadasella, Llanes, and Villaviciosa.
Gastronomically - Asturias is justifiably famous all over
Spain. Some of Spain's fines and most distinctive cheeses are
produced here; Cabrales and Penamellera - from the areas with
the same name. Also noteworthy are Gamonedo produced around
Cangas de Onis and Beyos from the area of Amieva and Ponga in
the heart of the mountains. Asturias is also famous for apple
cider. This fermented drink is the national drink of the entire
region, and its pouring and drinking has become ritualized and
its great fun to watch and participate in this ritual. Just walk
into any 'cider bar' in Asturias and partake.
Fabada Asturiana is a classic dish of the region - a kind of
stew made of kidney beans, blood sausage, bacon and shoulder of
pork flavored with laurel leaves. Seafood and river fish is also
abundant in the cuisine of this area bounded by sea and
mountains.
The Parador will serve these specialties in its own incomparable
way and provide you with daily gastronomical discoveries that
will leave you satiated, yet already anticipating the next meal!
One really needs to have a vehicle to be able to fully explore
this captivating region. Rent a car and plan leisurely day trips
to the various areas of interest. Always take along some of the
famous cheese, a bottle of wine or cider, some bread and ham -
whatever - because you'll drive by dozens of perfect picnic
spots every time you venture out.
This area has been nick-named, "The realm of the senses" by some
of its aficionados - and that it surely is. Take your time, use
the Parador as home base, and enjoy this area that has also been
called "the most Spanish of all Spain." It will be a travel
experience long-cherished and never forgotten.
For more on all of Spain's wonderful Paradors, go to: http://www.SpainParador.com
About the author:
Gary Bumpas has traveled extensively across Spain. He lived in
Spain and has pursued a love affair with that country over the
span of 34 years. He studied flamenco guitar with various gypsy
masters in the 70's, and explored villages rarely seen by
tourists.
A professional travel consultant and acknowledged expert on the
Paradors of Spain - he helps travelers plan vacation experiences
that will create memories to last for a lifetime.
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