Pazo da Merced

The fusion of old-world monastic-functionality and modern Spanish architecture provided a sanctuary to recover from the first day of our Camino. Our room opened to the banks of the Ria de Ferrol across which we were able to retrace our journey from Ferrol to Xubia to Nede. We were driven to/from a local restaurant first our pilgrim meal, and our breakfast at Pazo de Merced was a bountiful meal of fruit, an omelet, beverages (coffee or teas, milks, and orange juice), cereal, jamon, and toast… a splendid way to start our second day.

Beautiful hotel, amazing staff, and a bed so comfy it felt like we slept on a cloud. After a 10 mile walk, we checked into the hotel with ease, our room wasn’t quite ready so we sat and admired the water front view. We were then shown to our room and it was everything we could hope for. Fully automated black out blinds, a very comfortable double bed, and a gorgeous bathroom with a powerful and hot shower. There is a good sized pool in the garden and a well stocked bar The hotel offered us a table in their restaurant for dinner, which we initially declined as we wanted to explore however we soon found our everything is closed on a Monday so we called to see if they could fit us in and they did. The food was outstanding, 3 course fixed menu and every mouthful was delicious, the wine was beautiful and it wasn’t long before we were off to bed. We had the most amazing sleep, as mentioned the bed was very comfortable, the room was quiet and was kept cool thanks to a fan in the room. We chose breakfast with our booking and it was a good start to the day. Freshly squeezed orange juice, choices of omelettes, yogurts, fruit and toast. All round good place to stay and we would definitely recommend.

A converted monastery in its own grounds nestling on a river estuary. Fixtures and furnishings very well done. Staff very attentive. Bedrooms really comfy. Laid back piano music throughout the building. Now the food. We ate in the library as there was a wedding food tasting event. The star of the show was Oscar our ever attentive waiter/MD. We left ourselves in his capable hands as he guided us through a feast of local cuisine. To start. Croqutes ham and delicious sauce. Tempura prawns local seaweed and truffle. Pulpo on a bed of mash with black garlic sauce. Mains included knuckle of pork braised in a delicious sauce. Plus pork cheek. Oscar chose the local wines which complimented the food superbly. He really did enhance the experience. To top it all he is 6 times spanish national pool champion!