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Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
Spain's little-known village with colourful ‘hanging houses'
In Barcelona, there's the Sagrada Familia. In Madrid, the Royal Palace. In Puerto Banús, it's all about the luxury marina. But at a time when popular destinations are pushing back against overtourism, lesser-known gems are finding themselves in the spotlight. And, for those actively seeking tourists, there's nothing we love more at Metro Travel than putting them on the map. One place worth your time is Cudillero, a small and unassuming fishing port in Asturias, northern Spain. Nestled in the Pico Paradiella mountains, with a surrounding landscape of rolling hills and horseshoe cliffs, it's an Instagrammer's paradise. But its defining feature is the brightly-coloured 'hanging houses' that protrude from the hillside. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Of course, the buildings don't actually hang from the rocks, but the way they've been built makes them look as though they're perched on the edge, overlooking the harbour. If this mental picture has already made you want to book flights, then let us help you plan your itinerary. Cudillero isn't just a pretty face; there's so much more to this picturesque village than meets the eye. First up, let's talk about the views. If you're an avid hiker, Cudillero and its surrounding areas should be on your hit list. The region boasts diverse trails suitable for all skill levels, with standout landmarks including the lighthouse, La Garita, La Atalaya and El Pico. There's also the Cabo Vidio, a coastal area with cliffs and viewpoints. Not to mention Mirador de la Garita-Atalaya, another iconic viewpoint with panoramic scenes of Cudillero harbour. For those who like a challenge, Cudillero is part of the spiritual Camino del Norte pilgrimage route. While trekking in the area, you'll find panoramic landscapes, from verdant forests, the Cantabrian Sea and stretches of rugged coastline. If sightseeing without hiking up mountains is more your vibe, Cudillero on the ground is just as stunning. The village's two most important buildings are the 13th-century chapel of El Humilladero, the oldest in town, and the Church of San Pedro, a 16th-century Gothic-style parish church replete with Baroque carvings. Both buildings are open to the public. Once you've checked out the architecture, take a stroll around the village. The narrow cobbled square is home to the fish taverns, which are the main tourist attraction, according to Cudillero's tourism website. TripAdvisor rates Restaurante Isabel as the best restaurant in the village, and diners seem to agree. From the traditional rustic blue and white interior, to the generous portions of local seafood, one visitor said they enjoyed 'premium product and exceptional care.' Another said 'do not pass without stopping,' while a third spotlighted the 'delicious' lobster rice. Prices here range in affordability. Fabas con Almejas (beans with clams) costs €15 (£12.82). The lobster rice (Arroz de Bogavante) is €30 (£25.64), while a Caldereta de Pescados (fish stew) will set you back €60 (£51.28). As Cudillero is a coastal town, the village is perfect for beach lovers. Playa de San Pedro is a popular spot, as it sits between the ocean and the Esqueiro River. There's also Pedreru de la Concha de Artedo, which is a 15-minute drive from town. Here you'll find a long stretch of sand, pebbles and cobalt blue water. If you're looking for more seclusion, Playa del Silencio is a 20-minute drive away. Also known as 'Silence Beach,' this shell-shaped cove is only accessible via dirt track and steps. @ ✨SAVE✨ for your Europe trip 📌SAVE & SHARE This beautiful village has it all 🤩 Did you guess right? This beautiful village is located just 2 hrs drive from Santander and is often called Spain´s best-kept secret! Welcome to Cudillero , a place you must visit in Spain! Cudillero is the most picturesque fishing village on the Asturian coast, full of cute colourful houses and picturesque streets just like Italy, ideal for getting lost in! Cudillero is for sure one of the most colourful villages in Europe and a must stop on any Northern Spain road trip! 📌Top travel tip : If you fall in love with this picturesque fishing village, you can stay an extra day or two to hike the trails along the cliffs or walk a portion of the Camino de Santiago pilgrim trail that also passes through Cudillero. #spain #travel #spaintrip #northernspain #spaintravel #europetravel #beautifulvillage #beautifuldestinations ♬ The Nights – Acoustic – VL4S Back in Cudillero, relax in the Plaza de la Marina, the lively square and heart of the village. This spot has the best views of the 'hanging houses,' as they surround the plaza. Sip on an Aperol Spritz or enjoy a spot of lunch at one of the many bars and restaurants. The plaza is much more than just an attractive lunch spot, though. It dates back centuries and has always been the epicentre of Cudillero's social and commercial activity. Many of the buildings were constructed during medieval times, when the village was purely reliant on its fishing industry. Nowadays, Cudillero's economy focuses on tourism, but residents still respect the village's past. This is most obvious during July's Fiesta del Carmen, an important date in Cudillero's calendar, where locals and fishermen come together to pay homage to their patron saint. This year, the traditional festival will be celebrated on Sunday, July 21, with the maritime procession in the Plaza de la Marina being the main attraction. Throughout the day, expect the Avante Cuideiru Bagpipe Band, a concert by the San Pedro de Cudillero Mixed Choir, the folk group Arduríu Pixuatu, and even a DJ set. The festival is free to visit, but certain venues within the festival are ticketed. The closest airport to Cudillero is Asturias Airport, around 10 miles away. On July 1, Spanish budget airline Vueling is operating a flight from London Gatwick for just £65. The journey takes 1 hour and 55 minutes. More Trending Bristol, Birmingham, and Edinburgh also fly to Asturias, however there are no direct routes. You'll need to stop in Barcelona, Alicante and Frankfurt. The average flight time is around 6 hours. Cudillero has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, meaning mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. August is the hottest month, with temperatures averaging around 23°C. June, July and September range between 20°C and 22°C. The shoulder season, late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October), enjoys a comfortable heat between 18°C and 20°C, while the winter months can peak around 13°C to 14°C. MORE: British dad breaks neck after being pushed into shallow pool at Benidorm party MORE: Major UK airline launches sale with £29 flights to 475 destinations — but it ends in two days MORE: Cause of Spain and Portugal blackouts which left millions in the dark revealed
Metro
10-06-2025
- Metro
Wizz Air launches £18 flights to ‘enchanting' European gem with pints for just £
It's barely even summer, but if you're already eyeing up an autumn getaway, Wizz Air has just announced a new route that won't break the bank. The budget airline is launching twice-weekly flights from Birmingham to Sibiu, an 'enchanting' medieval city in central Romania, this October – with fares starting at just £17.99 one-way. The historic city lies in the heart of Transylvania, a region famous for its vampire legends and Count Dracula. The bloodthirsty character, popularised by Bram Stoker's 1897 novel, is based on Vlad III, Prince of Wallachia. The 15th-century prince displayed 20,000 of his enemies impaled on sticks and happens to be a distant relative of King Charles III. With fairytale streets, gothic architecture and an eerie atmosphere, it's essentially the perfect Halloween getaway. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. And if the culture doesn't tempt you, the price of a beer might. Romania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for alcohol, with pints in Sibiu costing as little as £1 in some bars, putting the UK's £5 average to shame. So, what does this hidden gem actually offer? Compared to other Romanian cities, like its capital, Bucharest, Sibiu is relatively small. And, despite attracting plenty of visitors, it is generally considered a hidden gem. The medieval city is divided into two areas: the Upper Town and the Lower Town. The Upper Town is perched on a hill and was once home to aristocrats and the religious elite. You'll find grand squares and palaces, and Saint Mary's Evangelical Cathedral, an imposing Gothic-style cathedral. The Lower Town was home to Craftsmen, Merchants and artists and is known for its colourful houses and cobblestone streets. Transylvania's ties to Dracula often draw people to the region, and you can find links to the tale in Sibiu. The city is said to be the burial place of Dracula's son, 'Cel Rau' (the Evil One). It's a secret that very few people know when visiting, according to Visit Sibiu. It's said he was assassinated outside Sibiu's Evangelical Church in Piata Huet and buried there. Visitors have described Sibiu as both enchanting and eerie, and a large reason for this is its architecture. Across the town, you'll find dozens of houses with small dormers that look like half-open eyelids. The unique feature has earned Sibiu the nickname 'The City with Eyes'. Most were built in the 19th century; however, some date back to the 15th century. Legends say they were built to frighten people, making them believe they are being watched. But they actually just act as a ventilation system for the houses' attics. Either way, they're definitely a little unsettling and Big Brother-esque. After all that exploring, you'll likely want to get off your feet. And there are plenty of bars and traditional restaurants to do so. Eastern Europe is known for having affordable beer prices compared to Western Europe, and Sibiu is no exception. Recent research by Finder ranked Romania as the tenth cheapest place to enjoy a pint in Europe. The price of a glass of beer costs just £1.85, significantly lower than the average London pint at £6.75. If you're after some sunshine, the best time to visit Sibiu is between May and October, when the weather is pleasant. Temperatures can reach up to 30 ° C during the summer months (July and August), however, these are the busiest months. So, if you don't like sweltering crowds, perhaps consider a different time. The shoulder seasons (April and May) and autumn (September and October) can offer tourists some respite from crowds. The weather is still pleasant, but there are typically fewer people visiting. So, maybe bag yourself some Wizz Air flights for October. Sibiu is a great destination for those looking for a cheap city break. You can find accommodation for less than £40 per night. The Ibis Styles is a budget-friendly option for travellers, with prices starting at £35 per night on But, if you're looking for something a bit more luxe, the four-star Continental Forum has rooms for £70 per night, set in a historic building in the centre of Sibiu. There are also plenty of options in the city's old town. The Pension Casa Frieda, an 18th-century building converted into a guesthouse, has rooms for £35 a night, while Hotel Casa Luxemburg, located amongst Sibiu's medieval streets, has rooms for £60 a night. More Trending Sibiu is a great place to tick off when exploring the wider Transylvania region, so many travellers will stay for 24 hours or less before heading on to other destinations. If that's the kind of break you're after, it's a two-hour drive from Brașov, another medieval city located in the Carpathian Mountains, that's known for its Saxon walls and Gothic churches. Sibiu is also close to Bran, the ultimate Dracula destination. The commune is just two hours away and is the home to the gothic Bran Castle – a popular tourist destination famously marketed as 'Dracula's Castle' despite the fact it has no real connection to Bram Stoker's novel. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Passengers stuck on 32-hour flight to nowhere and end up right where they started MORE: Eurostar will run direct trains from London to Germany and Switzerland: 'A new golden age' MORE: I stayed at Switzerland's only beach resort, the perfect escape from a chaotic world
Metro
09-06-2025
- Metro
‘Enchanting' European city is a hidden gem with £1 pints and new £18 flights
It's barely even summer, but if you're already eyeing up an autumn getaway, Wizz Air has just announced a new route that won't break the bank. The budget airline is launching twice-weekly flights from Birmingham to Sibiu, an 'enchanting' medieval city in central Romania, this October – with fares starting at just £17.99 one-way. The historic city lies in the heart of Transylvania, a region famous for its vampire legends and Count Dracula. The bloodthirsty character, popularised by Bram Stoker's 1897 novel, is based on Vlad III, Prince of Wallachia. The 15th-century prince displayed 20,000 of his enemies impaled on sticks and happens to be a distant relative of King Charles III. With fairytale streets, gothic architecture and an eerie atmosphere, it's essentially the perfect Halloween getaway. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. And if the culture doesn't tempt you, the price of a beer might. Romania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for alcohol, with pints in Sibiu costing as little as £1 in some bars, putting the UK's £5 average to shame. So, what does this hidden gem actually offer? Compared to other Romanian cities, like its capital, Bucharest, Sibiu is relatively small. And, despite attracting plenty of visitors, it is generally considered a hidden gem. The medieval city is divided into two areas: the Upper Town and the Lower Town. The Upper Town is perched on a hill and was once home to aristocrats and the religious elite. You'll find grand squares and palaces, and Saint Mary's Evangelical Cathedral, an imposing Gothic-style cathedral. The Lower Town was home to Craftsmen, Merchants and artists and is known for its colourful houses and cobblestone streets. Transylvania's ties to Dracula often draw people to the region, and you can find links to the tale in Sibiu. The city is said to be the burial place of Dracula's son, 'Cel Rau' (the Evil One). It's a secret that very few people know when visiting, according to Visit Sibiu. It's said he was assassinated outside Sibiu's Evangelical Church in Piata Huet and buried there. Visitors have described Sibiu as both enchanting and eerie, and a large reason for this is its architecture. Across the town, you'll find dozens of houses with small dormers that look like half-open eyelids. The unique feature has earned Sibiu the nickname 'The City with Eyes'. Most were built in the 19th century; however, some date back to the 15th century. Legends say they were built to frighten people, making them believe they are being watched. But they actually just act as a ventilation system for the houses' attics. Either way, they're definitely a little unsettling and Big Brother-esque. After all that exploring, you'll likely want to get off your feet. And there are plenty of bars and traditional restaurants to do so. Eastern Europe is known for having affordable beer prices compared to Western Europe, and Sibiu is no exception. Recent research by Finder ranked Romania as the tenth cheapest place to enjoy a pint in Europe. The price of a glass of beer costs just £1.85, significantly lower than the average London pint at £6.75. If you're after some sunshine, the best time to visit Sibiu is between May and October, when the weather is pleasant. Temperatures can reach up to 30 ° C during the summer months (July and August), however, these are the busiest months. So, if you don't like sweltering crowds, perhaps consider a different time. The shoulder seasons (April and May) and autumn (September and October) can offer tourists some respite from crowds. The weather is still pleasant, but there are typically fewer people visiting. So, maybe bag yourself some Wizz Air flights for October. Sibiu is a great destination for those looking for a cheap city break. You can find accommodation for less than £40 per night. The Ibis Styles is a budget-friendly option for travellers, with prices starting at £35 per night on But, if you're looking for something a bit more luxe, the four-star Continental Forum has rooms for £70 per night, set in a historic building in the centre of Sibiu. There are also plenty of options in the city's old town. The Pension Casa Frieda, an 18th-century building converted into a guesthouse, has rooms for £35 a night, while Hotel Casa Luxemburg, located amongst Sibiu's medieval streets, has rooms for £60 a night. More Trending Sibiu is a great place to tick off when exploring the wider Transylvania region, so many travellers will stay for 24 hours or less before heading on to other destinations. If that's the kind of break you're after, it's a two-hour drive from Brașov, another medieval city located in the Carpathian Mountains, that's known for its Saxon walls and Gothic churches. Sibiu is also close to Bran, the ultimate Dracula destination. The commune is just two hours away and is the home to the gothic Bran Castle – a popular tourist destination famously marketed as 'Dracula's Castle' despite the fact it has no real connection to Bram Stoker's novel. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Major European holiday destination opens e-gates to British travellers just in time for summer MORE: Devastated and broken, I headed to the Himalayas to heal my heartbreak MORE: I was cabin crew for 26 years — here's how we handle emergencies at 30,000 feet
Scottish Sun
07-06-2025
- Scottish Sun
From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland
Scroll down to find the seven most unique overnight stays across Scotland RELAXING RETREATS From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SUMMER has officially arrived, and if a trip abroad isn't in the cards, then there are plenty of unique staycations to choose from. With the season starting off rather dreich, a getaway is often the perfect remedy for the June gloom. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 15 If a trip abroad isn't on the cards, then a staycay is often just as good Credit: Alamy From luxury castle stays to rustic brochs or even monasteries, here are seven of the most unique overnights across the country. Fingal Hotel, Water of Leith, Edinburgh 15 Fingal Hotel is a Northern Lighthouse Board Ship turned floating hotel Credit: Alamy 15 Each room is beautifully decorated Credit: Visit Scotland This former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, now a floating hotel, features 22 luxurious cabins that promise an unforgettable stay. Permanently berthed along the picturesque Leith waterfront, this five-star vessel offers breathtaking views of twinkling city lights as you drift off to sleep. Each room is beautifully decorated and comes equipped with a lavish king-size bed and rain showers. The onboard Lighthouse Restaurant is a culinary gem, recognised with 2AA Rosettes. The Brochs of Coigach, Achiltibuie, Highlands 15 The Brochs of Coigach are situated in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas Credit: Visit Scotland 15 Both properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas Credit: Visit Scotland Nestled in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas, The Brochs of Coigach offer an unparalleled luxury getaway. These roundhouse buildings are modern interpretations of ancient brochs, offering views of the rugged coastline and majestic highland mountains. Set on four acres at the end of a private farm track, each broch is decorated with original works from renowned contemporary Scottish artists. Inside Binky Felstead's getaway to Spencer Matthews' lavish Scots family estate Both self-catering properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas, ideal for wildlife watching. Despite their secluded setting, the charming retreats are conveniently close to a highly-rated restaurant. You can also enjoy various activities such as hill climbing, sea kayaking, sailing, surfing and motor cruises. The Monastery, Fort Augustus, Highlands 15 The Monastery in Fort Augustus is a the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge Credit: Visit Scotland 15 It is a spacious one bedroom apartment Credit: Visit Scotland Situated in a striking monastery building in Fort Augustus, this venue is an exceptional retreat to unwind and recharge. The spacious one-bedroom apartment boasts a double-height living room with Gothic-style windows, an open-plan kitchen and a stunning master bedroom offering breathtaking views over Loch Ness. The luxurious bathroom features a soaking tub and underfloor heating for added comfort. On-site amenities include a heated indoor pool, a games room, and captivating vistas. Guests can explore nearby whiskey trails, take scenic countryside walks to the local pub or even try their luck at spotting Nessie. The Suites at Urquhart Church, Elgin, Moray 15 The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church sleep up to 11 guests Credit: Visit Scotland 15 Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings Credit: Visit Scotland The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church are the perfect place for a bit of peace and quiet. The apartments sleep between two and eleven guests, making it an ideal retreat for couples, families or groups of friends. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings and modern amenities. The converted church is surrounded by nearly two acres of rolling farmland. The picturesque gardens include a pond, a charming waterfall, and a stream that meanders through the landscape. In the Moray region, there are plenty of attractions to explore, such as centuries-old whisky distilleries, the historic Elgin Cathedral and beautiful white sandy beaches. Chaffeur's Apartment, Lochinch Castle, Stranraer 15 The Chaffeur's Apartment is located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle Credit: Alamy 15 It was originally the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur Credit: Visit Scotland The Chaffeur's Apartment, located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle in Stranraer, is a newly refurbished three-bedroom self-catering accommodation. Originally serving as the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur, it maintains some of its historical features while incorporating modern upgrades. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the White Loch and the turreted Lochinch Castle. The apartment includes three spacious bedrooms, an open-plan living room with a log fire and all essential amenities. Guests have unlimited access to the stunning Castle Kennedy Gardens, which are open to the public from 10am to 5pm, February to October. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities, such as pony riding, exploring a nearby chocolate factory or mountain biking in the surrounding area. Rua Reidh Lighthouse, Gairloch, Wester Ross 15 Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe Credit: Alamy 15 The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat Credit: Visit Scotland Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe - making it perfect for a secluded getaway. First lit in 1912, this Stevenson lighthouse provides breathtaking views across the Minch to Skye, the Shiants and the Outer Hebrides. The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat featuring two ensuite bedrooms, both with stunning sea views. It's a dream destination for nature lovers as sightings of whales, dolphins and basking sharks are not uncommon. Bracken Treehouse, St Andrews, Fife 15 Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway Credit: Alix McIntosh 15 It features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light Credit: Visit Scotland Nestled among the treetops, Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway set in an ancient 36-acre woodland. It sleeps two guests and features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light. Modern amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, a flushing toilet and a shower with panoramic views of the surrounding canopy. While it offers a serene and tranquil retreat in the beautiful Fife countryside, there's easy access to the picturesque East Neuk, St Andrews, and Dundee is just a short distance away.
The National
06-06-2025
- Business
- The National
Historic Aberdeen church building price slashed after failing to sell
The historic building was formerly the Rosemount Parish Church, but is now named The Father's House, after it was transformed into an event space with a cafe. The C-listed Gothic-style church was renovated to also include meeting rooms, letting rooms, and a function hall which can hold up to 300 people and is described as ideal for weddings, birthdays, and conferences. READ MORE: There is a genuine silver lining in the SNP by-election loss There are also 17 en suite living rooms, with a mix of singles and double beds, spread amongst the two floors as well as a lounge and dining room along with a private carpark at the side of the property. The building also housed the Aberdeen North Foodbank for two years until September 2024 which was run by the Christ Apostolic Church House of Prayer. Situated in Caroline Place, The Father's House is in a well-connected location in the Granite City, but has failed to sell. The Father's House was listed for sale in August 2022, with a guide price of £1.1 million. However, more than two and a half years later, the property remains unsold. A massive £400,000 was then slashed from the price, bringing the guide price to £700,000 and has since been cut once again to £650,000. Simon Watson, business agent at Christie & Co, who is managing the sale, said: 'The business is currently vacant and provides an excellent opportunity for an incoming operator or developer.'
