Hostal San Paio, near Santiago airport with a restaurant
Hostal San Paio is a family-run guesthouse in A Lavacolla, Santiago de Compostela, just 2 km from the airport. It has its own restaurant, free parking and rooms from singles to family rooms. I recommend it to pilgrims and travellers passing through who want friendly service and fair prices rather than luxury.
Written by Valeria Romano
Published
Mapiola is a travel blog: this is not the official website of Hostal San Paio.
Where Hostal San Paio is and how to get there
Hostal San Paio is in A Lavacolla, on the road between Santiago and the airport, within the municipality of Santiago de Compostela. According to its listing, it is only 2 km from the airport, which makes it very handy if your flight lands late or leaves early.
Several guests say that, although the village is small, it is well served by bus and the stop is very close. There is also free parking, which is useful if you come by car, for example for an event in the area.
What the rooms at Hostal San Paio are like
The rooms at Hostal San Paio range from singles to doubles, triples and family rooms, so almost any plan fits. All have a private bathroom with shower or bath and hairdryer, a flat-screen TV, a desk and a wardrobe. Some look onto a patio or have views of the mountain or the garden.
There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a laundry service, a terrace and a shared lounge. Reception has limited opening hours, something to bear in mind if you arrive very late.
| Room type | Who I would pick it for |
|---|---|
| Single | Pilgrims or travellers on their own |
| Double | Couples or friends stopping over for a night |
| Triple and family | Families with children or small groups |
What guests highlight
What comes up most often in the reviews is the friendly service. Many guests speak of the owner, the landlady and the staff as kind, attentive and happy to help, even when someone arrives after the time they expected.
- Cleanliness. Several guests praise spotless rooms and shared areas.
- The restaurant. Guests enjoy the generous portions, the menu with two courses, dessert and coffee, and specific dishes such as the seafood soup. One guest was pleasantly surprised by the breakfast toast.
- Quiet. One guest appreciated a good night's rest and another mentioned a green setting that helps you unwind.
- Value for money. Described as reasonable and fair.
What to know before booking
Hostal San Paio is not perfect, and its weakest point is the dining room. Some negative reviews mention long waits with nobody taking notes and a waiter in a bad mood, although others describe the exact opposite. My view is that the restaurant service is inconsistent.
There is also a very critical review from a guest about a cleaning problem after she felt unwell during the night, and about how it was handled afterwards. It is an isolated case among many good reviews, but I mention it for honesty's sake.
- Pets and parties. Not allowed.
- Smoking. It is a non-smoking property.
- Reception. Opening hours are limited, so let them know if you are going to arrive late.
- Portions. One review warns that they are so big that one may be enough for two.
Who this guesthouse is for
I would choose it for a night's stop before or after a flight, or as a break for anyone walking the Camino who wants to eat well without spending much. It also suits families, thanks to the triple and family rooms and the children's menu at the restaurant.
It is not the place if you want a designer hotel, a spa or nightlife. Nor if you need reception open at all hours.
Things to do and where to stay near A Lavacolla
A Lavacolla is very close to Santiago de Compostela and lies on the route of many pilgrims. One review says some guests booked it to attend the O Son do Camiño festival, and others use it to spend a few days visiting the city.
If your route continues through Galicia, you could look at Pensión Compas in O Pedrouzo, Hostal-Restaurante Luz de Luna in Vilanova de Arousa or Hostal Chocolate & Menta Redondela.
Passionate about travel and about the kind of places that turn a getaway into something unforgettable. I love writing about hotels, country houses and charming hideaways, helping every traveller find the perfect place to rest and feel at home.
