La Ermita de Deva

Reviewed by Laura Dibben


MARA´S MAGICAL MONASTERY.................

In the late 17th century, two monks went searching for the perfect location in which to build their chapel in honour of San Antonio. Their requirements were few: fertile land, ideal sunlight and peaceful surroundings with views over the valley. Without having to look any further, they built their chapel, then their house, and, in 1701, their work was complete. Following tradition, they planted two trees to mark this occasion, one oak and one cork, which now sprawl over the house and chapel. The monks eventually handed their sanctuary over to their relatives, and, three centuries later, after having been passed down from generation to generation, La Ermita de Deva has been transformed into the most charming retreat, now surrounded by thriving orchards and lush gardens.

Mara, your kind host, is a delight. Like meeting an old friend, the warmest of welcomes awaits. Every nook and cranny of the Hotel has been tended to with care, and the attention to detail is exceptional. Upon entering the Hotel you will find a cosy salon of classical décor with floral printed wing-backed chairs and a romantic fireplace, and off reception is a second salon that is stylish with its subtle mix of rustic and modern features. Exposed stone walls and original beamed ceilings are complimented by modern furnishings including zebra-printed chairs and a comfy sofa topped with leather cushions. The pièce de résistance has to be the glassed-in porch that overlooks the countryside, lawned garden and part of Gijón. This bright and spacious room, of a ¨zen¨feel, allows guests to enjoy nature 365 days a year. Here you can help yourself to coffee, tea and cookies which are replenished throughout the day.

Nine bedrooms can be found in two parts of the Hotel; 4 in the original house, and the other 5 ¨Special Rooms¨ are new – and fabulous – modern additions which I highly recommend. Some are twin – please state your preference on booking), and some are adequate for triple use. The charming rooms in the original portion of the house are quite small, as are their bathrooms, obviously owing to the original structure of the building, whilst the Special Rooms are much more spacious and have been beautifully decorated. Room amentities include television, telephone, heating, safe and hair dryer. The Special Rooms also feature TVs and DVDs, mini-bar and coffee and tea-making facilities. Nightly turn-down service is a lovely touch.

Delicious breakfasts are served in the pretty breakfast room, accompanied by soft chill-out music and a glowing fire in the winter. You will start your day with a feast of fresh fruit from the orchards, homemade yoghourts, jams and pastries, fresh juice and eggs. Niether lunches nor dinners are served at the Hotel, but there are two restaurants in the immediate vicinity where light meals are on offer, and for more sophisticated meals, a larger variety of restaurants can be found in Gijón (a mere 10 minutes by car).

Mara is a wealth of knowledge on the area and is always happy to help plan excursions and activities in order for you make the most of your stay.

An ideal Hotel if you are looking for a relaxing holiday with the friendliest of hosts. An excellent base from which to explore the picturesque villages of the Asturian coastline or venture inland to explore the natural wonders of this region. One of those places where you will arrive and say, ¨At last!¨ only to say, ¨So soon?¨ when it comes time to leave.