Accommodation listing for La Casa de las Sonrisas in Grañón on Frances.
Address: C. Mayor, 16, Grañón
Phone: 687 87 78 91
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Would not recommend. We stayed here a month ago and the albergue was run by Laura, a Romania woman, who demanded how much we paid - €25/each! This is definitely NOT donativo. I was quite surprised as most beds are €15 for a decent place. She said that would include food - we did get a dinner which was only edible because we were starving. She said breakfast would be on the table in the morning, but the only thing on the table was leftover sausage and bread from dinner that had been sitting out all night. This place definitely has a vibe and not in a good way. The beds weren't clean, there was no hot water for a shower, linen or towels. Definitely our worst stay on the Camino.
This is a wonderful albergue, even if it is a bit rustic. But that adds to its charm. The rooms on the second floor are clean. The rooms on the third floor attic are charming, but equally clean. The host, Esther, is a gentle and charming lady who cooked us a communal meal and ate with us. The evening was a wonderful Camino experience. This albergue is located right on the Camino in a very central spot in the village. I would certainly stay here again.
As mentioned, this Albergue is now owned by the same family who own the bar “La Concha” (across from the church). They require at least 8 euro to stay. There were towels and blankets available to use, shower gel in the showers. No communal dinner— if you’re looking for that, stay at the Parroquial Albergue in town! The kitchen’s fridge/freezer was broken, no stove to use, one knife available. Looks like the place used to be really cozy and rustic but has fallen into some disrepair.
I would discourage anyone from using the House of Nightmares - certainly not 'House of Smiles'. Why in brief? 1) Bed bugs 2) It advertises as a donativo albergo - & yet the first thing that they ask for when you arrive is €8! 3) a hostile, closed proprietor. You're taking a risk if you stay there! This has all been said before in previous Google Reviews. Pleased to be heading back to France.
As a donation based place, I’m really confused and disappointed to see the negative reviews. The place has everything you need! There is a home cooked dinner and breakfast and even wifi! I had a hot shower, cleaned all my clothes and had a warm bed to sleep in. What more do you need??
