Bed and Breakfast in Spain

For a relaxing and quiet stay in Spain that is often much less expensive than a hotel you may want to consider a bed and breakfast. A bed and breakfast, known informally as a B & B, is a smaller room or accommodation within a larger family home. In Spain, a bed and breakfast is called a Casa Rural since they have traditionally been located outside of the major cities in the country and rural areas. Not all Casas Rurales are located in the remote areas of the countryside, many of the newer Casa Rural accommodations are located in the smaller villages and towns around the major tourist areas.

In some areas such as Galicia, the Casa Rural accommodations or bed and breakfasts are inspected and licensed just as hotels and other accommodations are. In other regions of Spain they are less controlled and it may be more likely that the accommodations will be simple rather than elaborate and more hotel like in presentation and type. In most Casas Rurales that are located around the larger centers, the houses will have small to large apartments or rooms that are self contained and may have a restroom facility that includes a bath or shower as well as a small kitchen area or hotplate and microwave. In other Casas Rurales guests may have access to the kitchen area and may have the option to prepare light meals or snacks from selected supplies or bring in their own.

The owners of the Casas Rurales, or at least the manager, will usually live right in the accommodation and will provide a daily room service as well as provide a breakfast for guests. Typically this breakfast will include pastries, fresh fruits, cheeses and continental types of breakfasts but some Casas Rurales may also serve a more traditional English or Spanish breakfast. Many of the Casas Rurales provide light evening meals as well as featured wines from the area for sampling and guest tastings.

One of the wonderful features of staying in a Casa Rural is the interaction with the other guests as well as the owners and staff. People tend to be very friendly and accommodating and are willing to make suggestions for sights to see and things to do while in the region. Since Casas Rurales are small and typically hold few guests it is important to book in advance, especially if you are traveling in the peak tourist seasons. Not all Casas Rurales will accept credit cards or travelers checks so be sure to ask about methods of payment before you arrive.