The rural village in Asturias that enchants Princess Leonor: very cold and good food

Princess Leonor has made it clear what one of her favorite places in Spain is: the small village of Sotres, in Asturias. Just days before finishing her journey with the Juan Sebastián Elcano, the strong bond of the heir to the throne with this northern corner has come to light. Cold weather, good food, and overwhelming natural beauty are just some of the reasons why this place has captured her heart.

Sotres is not just any destination. It is a place full of symbolism for Princess Leonor, who has highlighted the value of its people, traditions, and gastronomy. But what makes this high mountain village so special for the Royal Family?

This Is Sotres, The Rural Village In Asturias That Enchants Princess Leonor

Located at an altitude of 3,445 ft. (1,050 meters), Sotres is the highest settlement in the Picos de Europa and one of the most authentic. This small village of barely fifty inhabitants has tenaciously resisted modernity, keeping alive the essence of an ancient, proud, and hardworking Asturias. Its rugged mountain landscape, dotted with stone houses and granaries, seems suspended in time.

It is no coincidence that Sotres has become one of Princess Leonor's favorite places. During her stay in Asturias, Leonor has sought more than once the silence of its trails, the warmth of its neighbors, and the comfort of its typical dishes.

Sotres is not only natural beauty: it is also history, tradition, and resilience. In its caves, one of the most valued gastronomic treasures of the north is matured: Cabrales Cheese. With protected designation of origin, this cheese is still made using craft-made methods, from raw cow, sheep, and goat milk.

Despite the increase in visitors, the village keeps its character intact. Its residents, far from giving in to mass tourism, have chosen to preserve their environment and traditions. This gives Sotres an authenticity that seduces both mountaineers and travelers sensitive to the impact of their actions.

Princess Leonor Praises Sotres

For years, Sotres has been a favorite refuge for the kings and their daughters. Its selection as Exemplary Village 2024 has consolidated its prestige, but it was during her visit that Princess Leonor made her devotion clear.

"We are loving your village!" she declared to the gathered residents. She also described it as "a beautiful place in the heart of the national park, within the biosphere reserve, and a protected natural area."

Leonor especially highlighted the impressive view from the viewpoint, valuing "the beauty of the Cabrales environment framed by the Picos de Europa." But the most emotional statements came when the princess acknowledged the challenges faced by the high mountain inhabitants.

"Living in a high mountain village is a constant challenge," she admitted. A statement in which she made clear her admiration for the difficulties related to basic services and the sustainable management of natural resources in isolated rural areas.

Additionally, Princess Leonor showed a deep understanding of Sotres's economic evolution. She praised the successful transition from mining activity to natural tourism and hiking. "You did that transition very well," she acknowledged.

The gastronomic aspect held a privileged place in her statements. Leonor assured that "every traveler who comes to Sotres knows they will be comfortable, sleep well, and enjoy savoring the Asturian food you prepare."

With these sincere statements, Princess Leonor made it clear that Sotres holds a special place in her heart. Cold, beauty, and good food define this exemplary village that symbolizes rural resilience. Will this Asturian corner be the spiritual refuge of the future queen?