Hotel Del Oso is a beloved family-run mountain hotel in the remote village of Cosgaya, right in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park (Cantabria). Surrounded by towering green peaks and lush valleys, this stone-and-wood retreat captures the authentic spirit of the Cantabrian countryside. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed like family – many guests say that from arrival until departure, you truly feel at home.

Family-Run Mountain Retreat in Picos de Europa

The hotel is made up of two traditional alpine-style buildings with flower-lined balconies and a picturesque courtyard in between. Its 50+ rooms are simple, comfortable and impeccably clean, many with balconies or large windows framing views of the mountains and forests.

Décor leans into rustic elegance: wooden beams, hand-carved furniture and traditional textiles create a warm, snug atmosphere – the perfect refuge after a day of hiking in the crisp mountain air.

Warm, Family-Friendly Hospitality

Run by the same local family for over 30 years, Hotel Del Oso has earned a reputation as one of the best small hotels in Spain. The staff’s genuine friendliness and attention to detail are constantly praised – from sharing insider tips on the best hiking trails to quickly bringing extra blankets on a cool mountain night.

It’s a particularly welcoming place for families. Children love the on-site playground and the two resident Saint Bernard dogs who calmly lounge by the entrance and are always ready for a pat. Kids can safely play in the gardens and make friends, while adults enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the fresh mountain air and the convenience of plenty of free parking and easy access to sights like the Fuente Dé cable car, just a 10-minute drive away.

Gastronomy at the Heart of the Experience

Hotel Del Oso is also renowned for its gastronomy, often described as “Gastronómico.” Its on-site restaurant is a destination in itself, attracting visitors from across Cantabria and Asturias. In a region famous for hearty mountain cuisine, Del Oso stands out by serving authentic local dishes based on recipes passed down through generations.

Mornings begin with a generous homemade buffet breakfast, frequently highlighted in reviews: freshly baked breads and sobaos (local sponge cakes), eggs from the village cooked to order, cured meats and cheeses, and housemade pastries provide all the energy needed for an active day.

At lunch and dinner, the restaurant truly shines with regional specialties such as Cocido Lebaniego (a rich chickpea, meat and greens stew native to the valley), grilled sirloin from local beef, fresh trout from nearby rivers and wild mushroom dishes in autumn. Portions are generous, flavors are honest and rustic, and the quality is superb thanks to fresh local ingredients sourced from neighboring farms. The signature dessert, “Postre del Oso”, is a must-try and pairs perfectly with a meal by the wood-burning fireplace on cooler evenings.

Attentive service, a well-curated regional wine list and the presence of the owners in the dining room have earned the restaurant a loyal following and glowing mentions in travel guides.

Nature, Simplicity & Respect for the Park

While the hotel offers modern comforts, it maintains an old-world charm and a strong connection to its surroundings. The buildings follow local architectural traditions, and the property is dotted with gardens full of hydrangeas, fruit trees and green lawns.

Environmental stewardship here is mostly expressed as respect for the national park. The team encourages guests to explore responsibly by providing maps and advice, arranging licensed guides for nature walks or snowshoeing, and preparing packed lunches for hikers with local cured meats and cheeses.

After a day of adventure – whether trekking through the dramatic Hermida Gorge, visiting the medieval town of Potes, or ascending to the Áliva meadows by cable car – guests love to relax at the outdoor pool (open in summer) with panoramic mountain views, or on the covered porch listening to the rushing Deva River and distant cowbells. In cooler months, the cozy lounge with its fireplace and small library invites you to curl up with a book on Cantabrian wildlife or share stories with fellow travelers over a glass of local orujo.

A Timeless Mountain Haven

Staying at Hotel Del Oso offers an immersion into the timeless rhythm of village life in the Picos de Europa. As one review puts it, only 90 minutes from Santander, this must be one of the most charming small hotels in Spain, where from arrival until departure you feel completely at home.

The combination of spectacular location, heartfelt family-led service and deeply authentic Cantabrian cuisine makes Hotel Del Oso a cherished base for exploring one of Spain’s most dramatic natural parks. It is an ideal getaway for nature lovers, hikers and anyone seeking a taste of genuine mountain hospitality. Many guests leave already planning their return, having experienced the hotel’s rare ability to offer luxury in simplicity – a true mountain haven where comfort, community and nature come together.