The Rías Altas stretch along Galicia’s virgin coastline, teeming with wide rivers, beaches and cliffs where migrating birds swoop and few tourists stray. They say it’s so peaceful here that even chestnuts fall asleep – hence the hotel’s name… yet the sea and mountains hold hiking, surfing, kayaking, horse riding, and some of Spain’s best seafood. The hotel is in a former village school, restored to life by artistic Mónica and Alex. A tall, rustic frame softens the chic minimalism of pristine white interiors, splashed with bright red window frames, a grass-green cushion here, a vase of splayed branches there. Floods of light illuminate spacious bedrooms combining wood, golden stone and glass. When night falls, quirky lamps of spiky conkers glow in the sitting room and you can browse books on art and photography – Mónica’s passion. Head out to plenty of good restaurants nearby to sample the local specialities – enjoy a glass of Galician wine on the terrace as the sun sinks over the chestnuts first.
In a rural location close to the coast. Monica and Alex are keen to make your stay comfortable and to tell you about the area and local places of interest. There is a bar, which serves pizza from 7pm, within easy walking distance - though most guests simply enjoyed sitting on the terrace with a glass of wine at the hotel until later. A good base from which to explore the area - and a hearty breakfast that sets you up for the day.