As you may remember, back in 2022 I took a trip with my dog to Las Médulas, an ancient gold mining site in Spain. That’s why I already spent one night in Ponferrada as well, although l did not have a chance to visit the town itself back then.
I was not super pleased with the location of the apartment that I stayed at in 2022, so this time I chose this apartment instead and I can highly recommend this one.
So today you get a two-for-one article about visiting Ponferrada with your pup, along with a great apartment tip!
DOG FRIENDLINESS
My dog was very welcome in the apartment and there was no surcharge applied. The host even gave me a little blanket for her in case that she wanted to sit on the couch.
I do need to point out that the apartment is on the second floor without an elevator, so if your pup has trouble with stairs, be prepared to carry them up.
The area of the apartment also seemed much more dog friendly than the apartment that I stayed at before.
There was a park close by, and there are also nice walking trails along the river right by the castle to walk your pup.
THE LOCATION
The apartment is located perfectly if you want to explore the old town of Ponferrada. It is just a short walk to what for me was the main highlight of the trip: The Ponferrada castle also known as Castillo de los Templarios (if you are into castles, see the bonus tip below).
All of the old town was very nice to visit though. My dog had great fun with the small water fountains in front of the Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Encina, and for the humans we found a book store that gives new life to old books. You can either bring a book and take another one free of charge, or buy a used book for just 3 EUR. Lovely concept!
THE APARTMENT
The apartment itself was very comfortable overall. It had a large bedroom, a separate bathroom and a very large kitchen and living room area. The host had also provided two space heaters to already warm the place up for me. Super kind!
One minor gripe I had was with the bathroom. There was a noticeable smell when keeping the door closed. Thankfully it has a window, so it was an easy fixed, but maybe that should be looked at.
THE SERVICE
Even though it was an apartment, I must say that the service was great. I had very positive interactions with the hosts, they were very responsive and always happy to help. They also gave me a tip on a public parking lot just down the road before my arrival and reached out after I had forgotten a small item upon departure. Super appreciated!
THE VALUE
At this apartment, I paid just 59 EUR per night. To me, this was great value for such a large and comfortable apartment right in the center of town. This is one to repeat if I come back again to Ponferrada!
BONUS TIP
I promised you a bonus tip related to the Ponferrada castle and here it is: While it is unfortunately not dog friendly, humans can enter free of charge every Wednesday. I happened to be in town on a Wednesday and of course I could not resist.
Honestly, I highly recommend visiting the castle even if you have to pay the 6 EUR entrance fee. It is in such good state, you really get a good impression of what life could have been like in those times. You also get marvellous views over the town as well at the mountain range surrounding it. See those snow-capped peaks in the distance? I loved it.
I didn’t have enough time to visit the exhibition in detail, but you can learn a lot about the history of the castle and the Knights Templar who first established it in the 12th century. Do budget at least 60-90 minutes to see the castle and the exhibition in full.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Overall, this apartment was a great choice. The stay was very comfortable, good value, good service and the location was great. If I come back to Ponferrada I would not hesitate to stay here again, despite the two floors of stairs. A very good 4 out of 5 from me!
A trip with my dog 