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Parador of Cangas De Onis
By Gary Bumpas
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 Pe?a 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.
About the Author
SpainParador.com makes it easy for you to plan and arrange your next trip to Spain. This time stay in palaces, castles, and other places of great historical interest and rare beauty. Go to: http://www.SpainParador.com
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/17497.html
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