Every choice you make has to answer to the whole valley. Bees, cattle, water, soil, elders, stories — nothing exists alone. Why this matters?
The people who remember. The bear, the bee, the dung beetle. The names of the land. The stories.
Learn the names of the land, hear its stories, walk with those who know them, observe, participate and share. See how people, animals and landscape depend on one another — and discover a way of living that makes another future feel possible.
Your Stay
Stay in a fully equipped two-bedroom rural apartment. Rooms normally accommodate two guests and can be arranged as a double or twin where available. Travelling alone? Let us know — single-room options may be available. Bathroom and living areas are shared within the apartment.
★ 9.6 Booking.com
Your meals
Nine delicious, generous meals prepared by Geli at our local restaurant, Nemesio, and served in our dining room. She’ll make sure you’re well fed! Just let us know your dietary requirements.
Australian-Spanish musician, educator and cultural practitioner, Thomas’s work has been deeply shaped by learning and collaborating with custodians and Elders of Dharawal Aboriginal culture in Australia. He brings that experience of living knowledge, custodianship and relationship to Country to EcoPathways, working alongside Laciana’s own local custodians.
Absolutely! Solo travellers are very welcome. We’re a small group, and you’ll meet everyone online three weeks before the retreat, so you’ll already know some friendly faces when you arrive.
Twin rooms are shared with someone of the same sex. Alternative sleeping arrangements may also be available—just ask us.
This is a mountain culture, so expect some walking uphill and downhill—usually around 10 km a day on tracks also used by 4×4 vehicles, with up to about 400 m of ascent and descent. The pace is gentle, and we use cars where appropriate.
In November, daytime temperatures are typically around 8–9°C, with rain possible and occasional snow above around 1,500 m. If conditions become unsuitable, we adapt the programme and move activities indoors or to safer locations.
No Spanish required. The retreat works in English and Spanish, and I’ll translate throughout. Where useful, we may also use AI-assisted translation to make communication with local participants easier.
Recommended
Bus
León is the recommended arrival and departure point for our secluded Laciana valley, around 120 km away. We recommend travelling between León and Villablino by ALSA bus.
13 Nov — retreat start: León 12:45 → Villablino 14:28 · currently listed at €10.75
16 Nov — retreat end: Villablino 16:00 → León 17:45 · currently listed at €10.75
Please check the latest timetable and fare on the ALSA website and book your ticket in advance.
Car
If you’re driving, let us know. We strongly encourage carpooling and can help connect guests travelling from León.
Flying in?
Madrid is the main international gateway. León is around 2 hours by direct train from Madrid-Chamartín, with roughly 11 services a day.
Asturias Airport, near Avilés, is another good option. ALSA services connect Avilés with León in around 2½ hours.
Please note: Travel to and from Laciana is not included in the retreat package. If you need help planning your journey, just ask. We’re here to help and have your back.
Once your deposit is paid, your place is reserved.
Around 21 days before the retreat, you’ll receive a link to pay the remaining balance and an invitation to our pre-retreat online gathering. There, you’ll meet the group, organise possible carpools and go through the practical details together.
We’ll also introduce some of the field names, streams, trees, plants and animals you’ll encounter, including their names in the local language, so the experience begins before you arrive.
For any personal questions in the meantime, you can contact me directly by WhatsApp or email.
Please read our Booking & Cancellation Conditions carefully before booking. They explain our cancellation policy and your rights as a package-travel customer. If anything is unclear, contact me directly—I’ll be happy to help.
“The mission behind EcoPathways feels so aligned with what I value—preserving cultural heritage while nurturing the environment. I’m excited to join, learn, and see the impact firsthand.”
EcoPathways lives and breathes sustainability. From beekeeping to grazing, it’s an inspiring retreat that shows how eco-friendly practices can make a real difference
Stunning landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and a focus on sustainability. It’s a perfect escape for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature.
EcoPathways offers a true taste of tradition. From local dances to deep cultural connections, it’s a retreat that lets you experience the heart of the Laciana Valley
What´s Included
Ready to Belong?
€134.85 deposit today
€764.15 balance 21 days before arrival
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