Accommodation listing for Casa Karrikaburu in Valcarlos on Frances.
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We were walking the Camino Way and had been booked into this apartment by our travel organaiser. The owner was a little abrupt, but we put that down to the language divide. Intially we thought the apartment was quirky and looked comfortable. We soon realised though that it was not clean - crumbs on the settee and the bedroom smelt musty. The bed linen was very rough and uncomfortable. After a poor nights sleep we were hoping for a good breakfast. The breakfast was appalling. We were ordered to our seats in the bar area by the owner only to be met by a very surly young man that 'asked' us what we wanted to drink. I'm coeliac, and to give them their due, they did cater for that in as much as we were faced with a small basket of dry rice crackers, to share, a slab of butter, and some jam and not to forget the apple. In a nutshell we couldn't get away quickly enough from Valcarlos, which is a shame as we'd enjoyed a very good meal and service at the local restaurant/bar.
We spent several days there and can confirm that Casa Karrikaburu is an ideal place to stay. It has perfect facilities and is next to an unparalleled natural setting. They've managed to preserve the facades of a traditional local house and a comfortable, designer interior. The beds are incredibly comfortable for recovering from a long hike. The arothermal heating system creates a comfortable atmosphere while respecting the environment. The staff is also friendly and helpful. It also has a bar-restaurant where you can enjoy a drink surrounded by nature, or in a sheltered environment, whichever you prefer. Without a doubt, a place to return to.
On our way along the Camino de Santiago, we appreciated the warm welcome, the tastefully decorated rooms, and the perfect bedding. We'll be back!
A welcoming, newly renovated hostel with very friendly staff. One suggestion for the future: improve the cleanliness (our bathroom was dirty, which is why I'm giving it 4 stars). If you pay separately, they'll provide breakfast and dinner.
Beautiful apartments in an idyllic setting. Tastefully decorated and clean. They also accept dogs, for a fee of €15 per animal. We have three dogs, so the fee is quite a considerable expense (that's why I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5), but it's the only accommodation in the entire Irati Forest area that offers this service. 100% recommended.
