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A deeply unpleasant experience, pilgrims should be aware and avoid!
After walking approximately 27 km in 30°C heat, including the steep climb into Foncebadón, I stopped for a moment outside this albergue because there was a small area of shade. I was making a phone call home and there was nobody else around.
Within moments, the owner came outside and began shouting repeatedly, “You cannot sit there, you cannot sit there.” I explained calmly that I had just walked 27 km in the heat and simply needed a moment in the shade while finishing my call. Rather than accepting that explanation, she continued berating me.
I did not argue with her, insult her or behave aggressively. I simply moved across the road, as I wanted to avoid any confrontation.
Unfortunately, the situation did not end there. Shortly afterwards, another member of staff came outside and began filming me, despite my making it clear that I did not consent to being filmed, while the owner continued her verbal confrontation from the albergue. I was also completely unsure why they felt the need to film me, as the footage will only show me sitting quietly across the road, having already complied with their request and making no attempt to engage with them.
What I found particularly disappointing was the complete lack of basic courtesy. The Camino is built around hospitality, kindness and helping fellow pilgrims, particularly when someone has just completed a long, difficult day of walking in extreme heat. I was not asking to enter the albergue, use its facilities or take anything from the business. I was asking for nothing more than a moment in a patch of shade when the area was otherwise empty.
I treated the owner with respect and civility throughout. I cannot say that the same was extended to me.
Fellow pilgrims should be aware of this experience before choosing where to stay in Foncebadón. There are many other albergues in the village who offer a very warm and true camino welcome!
I would also strongly advise Jewish or Israelis pilgrims not to stay here. Do your research and choose any of the other establishments where you will actually be welcomed.
Avoid.