There are places on the map of Spain that don’t advertise themselves from billboards. They quietly hide in the folds of the mountains, waiting for those who know how to travel slowly. There are no giant beds or paid spa centers here, but those who find their way here say something inside them changes irreversibly. Maybe it’s the overwhelming silence, or perhaps it’s the way time begins to flow differently in this place.
In a secluded corner of the Pas valley, among misty peaks and endless meadows, lies a complex of cottages that have managed to preserve Pasiego authenticity without sacrificing elegance. Their stone and wood architecture, restored using local materials, retains the warmth of simplicity and the charm of authenticity. This project, launched by the Botín family, was created with a clear mission: to care for the surrounding environment and foster responsible rural tourism. Every detail—from interiors with exposed beams and modern fireplaces to the choice of natural textiles and works by local artists—is designed to create a cozy and mindful atmosphere. The result is a space where well-being is measured by the depth of your breath and the slowness of the dawns. The complex also uses renewable energy sources and efficient energy-saving systems, reinforcing its commitment to preserving this unique landscape.
These accommodations are more than just a place to relax—they are a model of self-sufficiency. The property features a small vegetable garden, a chicken coop with Pedresa hens, and a flock of Carranzana sheep grazing under the watchful eye of local mastiffs. Guests can sample homegrown products—milk-fed lamb, fresh eggs, and seasonal vegetables—strengthening the connection between the landscape and the table. For those who prefer to fully unwind, an in-house chef prepares traditional dishes true to the flavors of Cantabria, such as cocido montañés or roast lamb. And when the weather is good, there’s nothing better than dining outdoors, accompanied by the sound of the River Pas and the scent of freshly cut grass.
The complex offers three accommodation options. “Arce” is the most spacious, with three bedrooms and capacity for up to ten guests. “Espino” and “Serbal” are designed as studio apartments for couples. All feature a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and thoughtfully curated décor balancing tradition and contemporary design. In one of the houses, the bathtub is set right by the window, inviting guests to gaze at the valley as steam slowly fogs the glass. Every detail reflects an effort to create an intimate retreat where modern comfort blends seamlessly with the rural spirit of Cantabria. But the true treasure of this place lies beyond its walls. Trails winding through green pastures, picturesque villages like Vega de Pas, the Soplao cave, or the Cabárceno park offer wonderful opportunities to explore the vibrant, deeply human countryside of Spain. This is not a destination to simply visit: it is meant to be felt, breathed in, and remembered.
The cottages are located in the municipality of Vega de Pas, just over an hour’s drive from Santander and less than two hours from Burgos or Bilbao. The route from these cities follows the A-67 motorway, after which you turn onto secondary roads winding through small Pasiegos villages, where the landscape itself inspires tranquility. This is undoubtedly one of those escapes where luxury lies not in what you gain, but in what you leave behind: haste, noise, and detachment from yourself. Perhaps that’s why those who come here are not just looking for a place to stay, but for a return to serenity. Here, among the whisper of the river and the echo of the mountains, nature teaches you once again how to listen to silence.
