Facing south towards the Picos de Europa National Park above the tiny village of La Molina, this vacation home for rent in Spain is a work of modern design both in contrast and in context to it’s rural surroundings.
Completely redesigned and rebuilt from a decaying stone barn, architect Marc Furnival and his wife embarked on the restoration project following years of travel, settling into this tiny hamlet in the breathtakingly beautiful north.
Extensive research into the local vernacular resulted in a unique combination and balance of traditional and modern design practices, achieving a sense of connection with the surroundings and the cultural aspects of the region.
The spacious open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas feature sleek concrete floors, exposed timber ceilings and picture windows framing the Picos mountains, with a stone fireplace and a terrace with lovely views. Upstairs is a master suite and an additional double bedroom, each with gorgeous mountain views.
The house is part of a case study in an article on sustainable development that outlines the wider relationships between human activity, function and building design and is constructed using the highest sustainable standards: aero-thermal systems, limestone and natural lime plaster, clay block, brick, and local materials sourced from within an hours drive, including sustainable labor and craftsmen whose unique skills are inherent to the area.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Wifi throughout, cable TV with DVD player and DVDs (Spanish and English), universal audio speaker system, library of Spanish and English books, bath and kitchen amenities with basic pantry items included, laundry facilities.
AROUND
The village of La Molina lies in front of the Picos de Europa National Park, Asturias, in Spain’s rugged and less widely traveled north. The Cueto Pando National Park is within a short walk from the house with historic tree-shaded paths along the Casaño river leading into the park, with views into the heart across to the sea.
From dramatic mountains and unspoiled coastline, beautiful forests and sparkling rivers, there are a few less well known natural wonders to be discovered.
La Olla de San Vicente along the River Dobra marks the edge of the Picos de Europa National Park where you can walk to a small lake along the river.
The longer walk to Mofrechu peak grants you panoramic views of the coast near Ribadesella and across to the Picos de Europa National Park while the lower El Hayedo de Biescona forest closest to the coast, is a beautifully atmospheric route with mountain views across the Sueve range. The lesser well known Ponga park and the town of Cangas de Onís with its traditional market every Sunday are nearby with good access to the coast and its many beautiful beaches.
The dramatic and sheltered Gulpiyuri beach and Bufones de Pria, near Ribadesella are set amongst the rocks where natural fissures in the rock make for spectacular cliff top jets of water and wild waves that crash into the cliff face below. San Antolín beach is gentler for fun on the water with a lively beach cafe during high season. The small fishing village of Tazones, west of Villaviciosa is a good spot for enjoying the fresh catch of the day.
LOCATION
La Molina, Asturias, Spain. Nearest Airport: Santander Airport (115km) or Asturias Airport (131km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through Fall with a fireplace for cooler seasons
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