Pensión Etxeale — Hotel in Luzaide

I stayed here for 1 night in early April while on the Camino. I wanted to have a little more privacy until I get so exhausted I can sleep on a park bench, let alone an albuergue. Etxeale ticked all of the boxes. It is centrally located in Valcarlos. The pension is in a beautifully restored building decorated in a bric a brac style. I was in a single bed in a shared room with 1 other bed, but I was lucky and did not have to share. There are double rooms for couples. There are 2 shared full bathrooms but each room has its own sink. All rooms are on the 1st floor (not ground). You can do laundry here if needed. Wifi worked well. Alejandra's cooking is fantastic. I opted for both the dinner (21€) and breakfast (14€). Dinner was 3 courses with the main pictured (large serving of potato soup with a poached egg and chorizo). Breakfast included regional cheeses and salamis, homemade bread, marmelade etc. I recommend including these meals, but be sure to message Alejandra ahead of your stay to make a reservation for meals as well. Consider splitting your first day here before Roncesvalles given how strenuous the first day can be. You can also do the route Napoleon and arrange for a taxi in advance tobtake you down to Valcarlos from la Vierge or Croix Thibaud (this is...

5 stars – A Dream Filled with Heart and Magic

Staying at this beautiful place was like stepping into someone’s dream—because that’s exactly what it is. Alejandra, the wonderful soul behind it all, has poured her entire heart into every corner of this home-away-from-home, and it shows. From the moment I arrived, I felt not like a guest, but like family.

She welcomed me with such warmth and care, alongside her adorable and sweet dog, Bamban, who adds so much charm and joy to the experience. The rooms are an absolute delight—thoughtfully designed, full of beautiful, cozy details, and clearly made with love. There is a serenity and soulfulness in the air that one can feel.

Alejandra went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable, happy, and cared for. She’s one of the most genuine and kind-hearted people I’ve ever met, and it touched me deeply to see someone living their dream and inviting others into it with such grace.

If you’re looking for a place that feels like love, peace, and home—this is it. I can’t recommend it enough. Thank you, Alejandra and Bamban, for a stay I will never forget.💗

Muchissima gracias de mi coraçon...

5 Stars - A Perfect Stop Before Roncesvalles!

Staying at ETXEAle was one of the highlights of our Camino! Alejandra is a wonderful host—and an amazing chef. The breakfast she prepared was absolutely delicious, full of homemade flavor. The house itself is beautiful, stylishly decorated, spotlessly clean, and incredibly welcoming. We instantly felt at home.

We also had the joy of meeting Bamban, her sweet dog who added even more warmth to our stay. The location is perfect for those walking the Camino—quiet, cozy, and a great place to recharge. The next morning, we took a taxi to the top of the mountain where the Virgin of Orisson site is, and from there we walked through the stunning Pyrenees. It was the perfect combination of comfort and adventure.

I will definitely stay here again. Highly...