0:00:02 > 0:00:03Welcome to Escape To The Continent.
0:00:03 > 0:00:06And you find me in a picturesque and spiritual spot
0:00:06 > 0:00:09at the gateway to the oldest national park in the country.
0:00:09 > 0:00:11But which country?
0:00:11 > 0:00:13I'll let you know in just a few moments.
0:00:31 > 0:00:36Today, we're helping a couple from Bristol find a sublime continental retreat,
0:00:36 > 0:00:39and although I'm hearing positive noises...
0:00:39 > 0:00:42- This is perfect.- Yeah.- Yeah. There's a lovely atmosphere.
0:00:42 > 0:00:47..our colourful buyers could do with being a bit more specific.
0:00:47 > 0:00:48Is it you?
0:00:48 > 0:00:50Definitely. Definitely maybe.
0:00:50 > 0:00:53Definitely maybe! Oh, I'll take definitely maybe.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58Today, we're in Asturias in Northern Spain
0:00:58 > 0:01:03at the edge of the Picos de Europa, a range of limestone mountains
0:01:03 > 0:01:07that were given national park status back in 1918.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10But even further back in time, in the eighth century,
0:01:10 > 0:01:14a historic battle was fought here in the town of Covadonga
0:01:14 > 0:01:16which shaped Spain's history
0:01:16 > 0:01:20when the ruler of Asturias became the Christian King of the region
0:01:20 > 0:01:25after his army managed to defeat the all-conquering Arab Moors.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Now, this basilica, which was built in honour of that victory,
0:01:28 > 0:01:32attracts pilgrims and visitors from all around the world
0:01:32 > 0:01:37to this beautiful and peaceful part of Spain.
0:01:37 > 0:01:38A two-hour flight from the UK,
0:01:38 > 0:01:42the principality of Asturias is an autonomous region
0:01:42 > 0:01:45covering 4,000 square miles of Spain's most rugged
0:01:45 > 0:01:47north-western terrain.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51With glorious beaches outmuscled by a wild rural interior,
0:01:51 > 0:01:56Asturias both embraces and rejects a classic image of Spain.
0:01:56 > 0:01:59The community has no fewer than 24 nature reserves.
0:01:59 > 0:02:03Lush, green valleys where Western Europe's biggest population of
0:02:03 > 0:02:07brown bears roam and 40 inches of rainfall every year,
0:02:07 > 0:02:12averages to match those of Pembrokeshire, Cornwall or Devon.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14To the north, the Bay of Biscay feeds fishing communities
0:02:14 > 0:02:18along 180 miles of Atlantic coastline.
0:02:18 > 0:02:22And the region's most celebrated export, the 50 million litres of cider
0:02:22 > 0:02:27it yields every year, nourishes Asturias's one million citizens.
0:02:27 > 0:02:32And whilst Oviedo is the Asturian capital, Gijon is its largest city.
0:02:32 > 0:02:35It rolls out onto the Atlantic and oozes real charm
0:02:35 > 0:02:39with its smattering of imposing Romanesque architecture.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43To the east, the Picos de Europa dominate the landscape.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46This mountainous barrier cuts off all access from the south,
0:02:46 > 0:02:50making Asturias the most isolated part of the country.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55Due to the region's somewhat remote situation, the property market
0:02:55 > 0:03:00here in Asturias is less prone to the seasonal fluctuations
0:03:00 > 0:03:04that you might see across better-known Spanish destinations.
0:03:04 > 0:03:10The average price of a detached home here is £110,000.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14Now that's around £16,000 less than in Valencia in the east of the country
0:03:14 > 0:03:21and a princely £110,000 cheaper than in Malaga, down on the south coast.
0:03:21 > 0:03:24Throw in the fact that prices here have dropped around 20%
0:03:24 > 0:03:28from their height just a few years ago, and you can easily understand
0:03:28 > 0:03:32why today's buyers want to call this area home.
0:03:33 > 0:03:37Pursuing a new life abroad are retired electrician, Gary, and his wife, Linda,
0:03:37 > 0:03:40who live here on the busy side of Bristol.
0:03:40 > 0:03:45And their 43 years of marriage started with a rather unusual courtship.
0:03:45 > 0:03:49I was about 14, and Gary was 16, and we met at the Locarno in Coventry
0:03:49 > 0:03:52on a Saturday afternoon dance.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55He emigrated with his family to America.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57He didn't tell me he was going to America, actually,
0:03:57 > 0:04:01so I did a bit of detective work and found out from his brother
0:04:01 > 0:04:04where he was and I wrote to him.
0:04:04 > 0:04:09And then I went out and visited. And we got married when I was 20.
0:04:09 > 0:04:12And our intrepid lovebirds have more than one good reason
0:04:12 > 0:04:15for their impending move abroad.
0:04:15 > 0:04:17Well, we're looking to move to Northern Spain.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20Our daughters have moved to Madrid so that's a big pull for us.
0:04:20 > 0:04:22I like to live outdoors,
0:04:22 > 0:04:26so I'm looking forward to having my kitchen outside.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29You know, you can't live outside here.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32I love Bristol, but I don't like the English winters
0:04:32 > 0:04:35and now that I'm retired, there's nothing to stop us.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38We have done a little bit of travelling around there.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41So you've got the beach and the mountains,
0:04:41 > 0:04:43so you've sort of got everything, really.
0:04:43 > 0:04:47We just spent three weeks there with our daughters and just loved it.
0:04:47 > 0:04:51In the evening everybody goes out for a walk, it's just really nice.
0:04:51 > 0:04:53A nice way of life, I thought.
0:04:53 > 0:04:57But they're not quite so certain as to what their new home should look like.
0:04:57 > 0:04:59I wouldn't mind just a big space.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01Because we've lived in a mobile home,
0:05:01 > 0:05:05we've lived in a high-rise flat, we've lived in a semi and a terr...
0:05:05 > 0:05:08Oh, you know. Not bothered.
0:05:08 > 0:05:12Although Linda's forming a clearer vision of the kind of life she'd like to lead.
0:05:12 > 0:05:17Recently, I've decided to have a complete change and I'm doing camping.
0:05:17 > 0:05:22We have a micro-campsite in the back garden and that takes three tents.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24Or maybe one big family.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28That's nice, when you can get a family of Mum, Dad, grandparents and a couple of kids
0:05:28 > 0:05:30and they just take over the garden.
0:05:30 > 0:05:32So we made loads of friends that way.
0:05:32 > 0:05:34And they're both eager to export their favourite pastimes
0:05:34 > 0:05:36to their new life in Spain.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39I love tinkering. I've got a motorbike, I used to build
0:05:39 > 0:05:45old British bikes and I've got an old car that is a work in progress.
0:05:45 > 0:05:46That's me, really.
0:05:46 > 0:05:50When people think about me, they think of baking, and especially wholemeal.
0:05:50 > 0:05:54I have this sort of mini-workshop that I do,
0:05:54 > 0:05:58where you take one-and-a-half pounds of wholemeal flour
0:05:58 > 0:06:04and make two layers, a dozen scones, two-dozen biscuits, a dozen jam tarts
0:06:04 > 0:06:09and some fairy cakes, all with one bag of flour that costs £1.50.
0:06:09 > 0:06:10And whatever happens,
0:06:10 > 0:06:13they've readied themselves for the leap into the great unknown.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16You've just got to push the boat out and see how it goes.
0:06:16 > 0:06:20I can't imagine it would go wrong, but there you go, you never know.
0:06:20 > 0:06:25- You've got to be brave and take chances...- Yeah.- ..in life.
0:06:31 > 0:06:36Linda and Gary's favourite patch of Asturias runs south-east away from Gijon,
0:06:36 > 0:06:41over towards the commanding natural border of Covadonga and the Picos de Europa.
0:06:41 > 0:06:45We are focusing our search along the Old Covadonga Road which pierces
0:06:45 > 0:06:47the Asturian heartland.
0:06:47 > 0:06:52And it's just off this route that I'm meeting up with today's prospective buyers.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54Well, Gary and Linda, welcome to Asturias.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56Most Brits haven't explored this part of Northern Spain,
0:06:56 > 0:06:58so what is the appeal?
0:06:58 > 0:07:03- Our daughters now live in Spain, so that's a big pull for me.- Yes.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06Better weather, the main thing, and being in the north,
0:07:06 > 0:07:09you get the seasons, plus I'm a self-employed electrician
0:07:09 > 0:07:11- and people still keep ringing me... - Do they?
0:07:11 > 0:07:14- ..and I keep saying "yes"! - LAUGHING:- You must be good!
0:07:14 > 0:07:16- Oh, he is good.- Cheap! Must be cheap!
0:07:16 > 0:07:19- But in a way, this is all about "You Time".- Yeah.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21We thought now or never, really.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24- What a great time though, to have a new adventure.- Yeah.
0:07:24 > 0:07:29Describe to me this perfect property that you're after, what does it look like?
0:07:29 > 0:07:32I don't really have a picture. I couldn't say... Do you?
0:07:32 > 0:07:35I'll know it when I see it, you know, I think.
0:07:35 > 0:07:40- What does it consist of? - Two-bedroom, workshop.
0:07:40 > 0:07:41- For sure.- Yeah.
0:07:41 > 0:07:44I've wanted one for years, so... I just like making stuff and...
0:07:44 > 0:07:49- And what about you, Linda?- I'd like a practical kitchen, because I bake.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51And I would like a vegetable plot.
0:07:51 > 0:07:53And a bit of space for people to come and camp.
0:07:53 > 0:07:57- Are we talking a manageable amount of land?- Definitely, yeah.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59- Yeah, yeah.- Yeah, nothing too big.
0:07:59 > 0:08:05You know, I'd love to have an eco-house and I'd really like a compost toilet.
0:08:05 > 0:08:07Inside or outside the house?
0:08:07 > 0:08:09Well, actually, you can have both now, you know...
0:08:09 > 0:08:12But definitely one outside for campers.
0:08:12 > 0:08:15- And if it hasn't got that already...?- Oh, We'd make it that way.
0:08:15 > 0:08:16You could do it?
0:08:16 > 0:08:19Yeah, because mostly, it probably wouldn't have that already.
0:08:19 > 0:08:21I would probably put solar panels, maybe, wind power.
0:08:21 > 0:08:26Yeah, and if there was water, you can use that to generate electricity.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29Project? Good with your hands, Gary, come on!
0:08:29 > 0:08:33How much do you want to get involved or are we looking at a property that's already been done?
0:08:33 > 0:08:36- You don't want a lot of maintenance as you get older.- No.- Well, I don't.
0:08:36 > 0:08:40But like, a new kitchen, a new bathroom, something like that.
0:08:40 > 0:08:42Does anything make you nervous about this move?
0:08:42 > 0:08:45There'll be things, I guess. Language will be a problem,
0:08:45 > 0:08:50- but it's something I'm going to get stuck into.- Are you?
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- Yeah.- We'll have to learn and we intend to learn
0:08:53 > 0:08:55and we are trying to learn now.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59We've got a course of CDs that we're listening to all the time.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02- Plus, our daughters are fluent, so we thought...- Yeah, so they're helping.
0:09:02 > 0:09:05So, remind us of how much you've got to spend with this move?
0:09:05 > 0:09:07Probably, max 155.
0:09:07 > 0:09:10Well, we're very much looking forward to showing you
0:09:10 > 0:09:13this region and finding you that unusual home.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16- Me too!- Me too, yes.- Good.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20With their house already on the market, Linda and Gary are ready to move,
0:09:20 > 0:09:23and with their £155,000 budget,
0:09:23 > 0:09:27they're looking to invest in a whole new way of life.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30Their property needs are fairly simple - a couple of rooms,
0:09:30 > 0:09:34space for campers and that eco-loo, of course.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37But this flexibility poses its own problems.
0:09:37 > 0:09:40It'll be up to us to translate these vaguer notions
0:09:40 > 0:09:44into a tangible list of property prerequisites.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47Over the next couple of days, I'll be taking Linda and Gary
0:09:47 > 0:09:49to view four unique Spanish properties,
0:09:49 > 0:09:53but I won't be revealing the price tag until the end of each tour.
0:09:53 > 0:09:57We'll end with the mystery house, a curveball capable of
0:09:57 > 0:10:00offering our couple much more than they could ever have imagined.
0:10:05 > 0:10:10It's over to the town of Infiesto to kick off Linda and Gary's property search.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14Infiesto is a humble and historic town known for its yearly
0:10:14 > 0:10:17Medieval Market Festival and handy location just off
0:10:17 > 0:10:21the main transit route across to the cities of Gijon and Oviedo,
0:10:21 > 0:10:25both of which can be reached within 40 minutes by car.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28Three miles and one country lane from the centre of the town
0:10:28 > 0:10:30lies our first property.
0:10:30 > 0:10:34It exists within the countryside between two mountain ranges,
0:10:34 > 0:10:36offering a majesty and serenity that I hope
0:10:36 > 0:10:40will go some way to colouring in Linda and Gary's modest wish list.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45So, our very first property.
0:10:45 > 0:10:48- BOTH: Wow. - Beautiful.
0:10:48 > 0:10:53- It is, it's really attractive and well-maintained.- Yes.
0:10:53 > 0:10:55Doesn't need any work.
0:10:55 > 0:10:58There's a reason for that - it's only about four years old.
0:10:58 > 0:10:59Oh, OK, yeah.
0:10:59 > 0:11:02- Now that's a big plus.- Yes!
0:11:02 > 0:11:05Did you think I was going to start off with a project for you, Gary?
0:11:05 > 0:11:08- I wasn't sure! - THEY LAUGH
0:11:08 > 0:11:10They got local stone, that all comes from...
0:11:10 > 0:11:13- It's reclaimed from the river you can just hear behind us.- Yeah.
0:11:13 > 0:11:17And we are sort of nestled within a mountain range, aren't we?
0:11:17 > 0:11:22- Yeah... This is lovely.- Good for the soul, nice.- Yeah?- Yeah!
0:11:22 > 0:11:24Which is a good way to start our tour, I think.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28- Do you want to follow me and we'll go inside?- Yep, great.
0:11:28 > 0:11:34'All good so far, and that high-spec, low-maintenance finish seems to be wooing Gary.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37Let's see how we fare inside.
0:11:37 > 0:11:38So, come on in.
0:11:39 > 0:11:40- Very good.- Yeah.
0:11:40 > 0:11:46I like one big space, kitchen and living room all in one. Yeah.
0:11:46 > 0:11:49- I like that dresser. I know that's not part of it, but...- Would that come with it?
0:11:49 > 0:11:53Imagine it without any furniture, look at the space.
0:11:53 > 0:11:56- Do you like what the owners have done?- Yeah. This is perfect.- Yeah. - Yeah.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59There's a lovely atmosphere, you know. Yeah.
0:11:59 > 0:12:03Now, the kitchen is quite compact, everything that you want there.
0:12:03 > 0:12:08- I can work in small spaces. And is that an electric hob?- Yes. - Yeah, OK.
0:12:08 > 0:12:13- If I just point up there...- OK. - ..and just remember that spot for me.- OK.
0:12:13 > 0:12:18- All will be revealed in a little while.- Right.
0:12:18 > 0:12:21So, this house is all on one level.
0:12:21 > 0:12:24And have a little poke in there, that's your spare room.
0:12:24 > 0:12:25For the girls.
0:12:25 > 0:12:30For the girls. Got a wonderful family bathroom in here.
0:12:30 > 0:12:34And then, of course, we get to your bedroom.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36Yeah, lovely. Good size.
0:12:36 > 0:12:41- Plenty of light.- Probably the furniture isn't part of the building...
0:12:41 > 0:12:45- You like the furniture, don't you? - Yeah, I do, actually.
0:12:45 > 0:12:47- Well, it fits with the property. - It does.
0:12:47 > 0:12:52It's a lot more posh than we're used to. Yeah.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54What are you used to?
0:12:54 > 0:12:57Our house is a work in progress, so it wants decorating,
0:12:57 > 0:13:01- there's still things to be done, whereas this is done.- Yeah.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04And that'll be really nice to be able to move into somewhere
0:13:04 > 0:13:09- and not have to do things...- Yeah. - ..live in a mess.
0:13:09 > 0:13:14Here we thought we might find Gary a little project, well,
0:13:14 > 0:13:15how do you feel about this?
0:13:15 > 0:13:19If you look up there, that gives you actually access into the eaves.
0:13:19 > 0:13:20The roof space.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22When we were standing in that main room,
0:13:22 > 0:13:26and I said to you, "Just take a look up there and remember that thought,"
0:13:26 > 0:13:29- that's where a spiral staircase could go...- Ah!
0:13:29 > 0:13:33- ..and there's enough room to have a one-bedroom en suite.- Oh, wow.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37- I could do it myself.- Yeah, you could do yourself.- Great.- Yeah?
0:13:37 > 0:13:39- And I've got more to show you. - Right.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45The house sits on 800 square metres of land to the front and rear.
0:13:45 > 0:13:49And for all their assertions to the contrary, the prospect of some DIY
0:13:49 > 0:13:53and getting his hands dirty has clearly capture Gary's imagination.
0:13:53 > 0:13:58And as we head outside, he just can't help himself.
0:13:58 > 0:13:59What do you think?
0:13:59 > 0:14:02- I could get a motorbike in there, yeah.- Well, it's bigger then you've had.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05Look, he's more excited about that than he is about the rest of the house.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07Let's take a look at the land.
0:14:09 > 0:14:13- Wonderful scenery, isn't it? - That's beautiful. - Beautiful, fantastic, yeah.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15This magnificent vista.
0:14:15 > 0:14:20Perfect for camping, friends, family and put a compost toilet...
0:14:20 > 0:14:25- The famous compost toilet! Ooh, now where can that go? - I really want one!
0:14:25 > 0:14:27- I'm going to do that.- Good.
0:14:27 > 0:14:31- You might've noticed behind us... - Yeah, we did notice.- There's your solar panel.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33Really good spec. In the summer months,
0:14:33 > 0:14:35that should provide you with everything.
0:14:35 > 0:14:37- Great.- It's got everything.- Yeah.
0:14:37 > 0:14:39And the family that lives next door to you,
0:14:39 > 0:14:40that's actually their holiday home.
0:14:40 > 0:14:44So we're going to try and work out what we think it's on the market for.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47I think it might be 150...?
0:14:47 > 0:14:52- Gary?- Probably over budget, say, 160?
0:14:52 > 0:14:58Well, the good news is, it's on the market for £146,000.
0:14:58 > 0:15:02And guess what? You get all the furniture thrown in as well.
0:15:02 > 0:15:04- Oh, no, really? - Yes.
0:15:05 > 0:15:07It's a win-win, isn't it?
0:15:07 > 0:15:10It's almost like, do we need to bother looking at the other...
0:15:12 > 0:15:14Coming in £10,000 under budget,
0:15:14 > 0:15:18our four-year-old first house offers the convenience of modern living,
0:15:18 > 0:15:21outdoor spaces and plenty of scope for Gary's tinkering,
0:15:21 > 0:15:25with the added convenience of being sold fully furnished.
0:15:25 > 0:15:27Local livestock not included.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33A little bit of grass hanging out of his mouth.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35The price is right.
0:15:35 > 0:15:39The furniture, the layout, the garden, the workshop. It's all there.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41I am blown away really.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45In our price range I expected something that would need work doing on it,
0:15:45 > 0:15:47which I am prepared to do.
0:15:47 > 0:15:49But to not have to do anything
0:15:49 > 0:15:53and pursue my hobbies instead is a massive bonus.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55Where is this loft?
0:16:00 > 0:16:04- There you go. That's it.- It would be a handy storage space.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06Well, a room. Another room.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14- Oh, yes. It's huge.- Is it?
0:16:14 > 0:16:16If you go straight through,
0:16:16 > 0:16:19there is a huge room with a light already in it.
0:16:19 > 0:16:21All of this floor space up there?
0:16:21 > 0:16:25Linda loves this property. She would be like, "Let's go for it."
0:16:25 > 0:16:29I might have to rein her in a bit and say let's look at the others first.
0:16:29 > 0:16:32Yes. It's perfect.
0:16:32 > 0:16:37Look at you two soaking up the rays. It's a good start, isn't it?
0:16:37 > 0:16:41- A very good start.- Shall we make a move?- Yes.- Yes.- Ready to go.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46With lifestyle so high on Linda and Gary's agenda,
0:16:46 > 0:16:50we've arranged a Spanish villa getaway for our couple.
0:16:50 > 0:16:52We have brought them to the remote village of Sevares
0:16:52 > 0:16:55where they can try out that authentic Spanish way of life.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59It is rather a beautiful spot here, isn't it?
0:16:59 > 0:17:04- But I bet you are wondering, why have we brought you to this little village? Any ideas?- No.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07- Is this where we're staying? - You would be right.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10We want you to live the experience, have some time on your own and wander.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13So there are the keys to your accommodation.
0:17:13 > 0:17:16Take the time. Relax and enjoy.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19- Welcome to your new home. In you go.- Thank you.- Thanks.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26- It's really nice.- This is nice.
0:17:26 > 0:17:28I must admit, just before we came out,
0:17:28 > 0:17:33I was thinking maybe it would be easier to stay.
0:17:33 > 0:17:36- Yes, but that's exactly what we don't want to do.- I know.
0:17:36 > 0:17:39- We want to go for the adventure. - Make life difficult for ourselves.
0:17:39 > 0:17:42- No, no. Make life exciting. - Yes, I know.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45- I really want to do it. - Let's have a look in here.
0:17:47 > 0:17:48I want it to happen quickly.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50And as Linda assesses the decor,
0:17:50 > 0:17:55explorer Gary puts something else through its paces.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59- I am going to test the bed. - You might not get up!- No.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02Don't get too comfy, love. We are going exploring.
0:18:15 > 0:18:19Linda and Gary from Bristol have £155,000 to spend
0:18:19 > 0:18:22in this distinctive area of Northern Spain.
0:18:22 > 0:18:27The first day search had a profound effect on their feelings towards the move.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30I woke up and I just started thinking about the house.
0:18:30 > 0:18:32Just imagining being there.
0:18:32 > 0:18:35And as Gary suspected, this morning Linda is already
0:18:35 > 0:18:38planning for life in that first property.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41If we did buy it, it is the maximum we have got really.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44- So that's it as far as money goes. - Yes.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47It would be a bit of a stretch for me personally.
0:18:47 > 0:18:50- Probably get some work. - I don't want any work.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57So Gary and Linda have set us a real challenge here in Northern Spain.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00They have a vague notion of what they want
0:19:00 > 0:19:02and a very positive outlook.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05But have they really thought through this move?
0:19:05 > 0:19:07Today, I've got something up his sleeve
0:19:07 > 0:19:09that is really going to test their mettle.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18- Good morning.- Hi.- Morning.
0:19:18 > 0:19:20Look at you with your stable door. You are like locals!
0:19:20 > 0:19:25- Come on out. How was yesterday? How was last night?- Great.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27- Slept like a baby.- Did you?- Yes. - Come on, then.
0:19:30 > 0:19:35Today, we climb. Our next house is in Santolaya de Cabranes.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38Taking a northerly tangent off the main highway
0:19:38 > 0:19:42which dissects the region, we happen upon another lush hideaway,
0:19:42 > 0:19:45pleasantly free of crowds and tourists.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49The village bars and shops are less than 10 minutes from our next property.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52The world from up here is dominated by an epic vista
0:19:52 > 0:19:56of layer upon layer of mountain ranges etched upon the landscape.
0:19:56 > 0:20:01It tells the story of a unique land that changes with the seasons.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04It retains a continuity with the past
0:20:04 > 0:20:06that many parts of Spain have lost.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08In order to appreciate the location,
0:20:08 > 0:20:12I have brought Linda and Gary to a spot just across the valley.
0:20:12 > 0:20:14So we have brought you to this location
0:20:14 > 0:20:19because not only is it spectacular with the most wonderful scenery,
0:20:19 > 0:20:22but on top of that, just up on the hill on the brow of the hill,
0:20:22 > 0:20:24where you can see the orange property?
0:20:24 > 0:20:26That is your next property.
0:20:27 > 0:20:32- It looks big from here.- What do you think of where it is situated?
0:20:32 > 0:20:35- It's beautiful.- Yes. - I like the colour.
0:20:35 > 0:20:39I can see there are pylons taking the electric up to it.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42You always see things like that, don't you, love?
0:20:42 > 0:20:44Shall we jump in the car? It's only two minutes away.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47Let's start the viewing.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50Yet more agreement from our couple.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54But will they still be on the same page once we head inside?
0:20:54 > 0:20:56The property itself lay derelict for 20 years
0:20:56 > 0:20:59but it has been lovingly recrafted over the past decade.
0:21:01 > 0:21:04So you have seen the house from the outside.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08Let's see what you think as we step inside.
0:21:08 > 0:21:13- It's got lots of character.- Yes. And the stone.- Big. Big kitchen.
0:21:13 > 0:21:18Plenty of space to bake. I like it. I actually like it.
0:21:18 > 0:21:21- It appeals?- Definitely.- Yes.
0:21:21 > 0:21:25It is an artisan's house. It's very creative, very artistic.
0:21:25 > 0:21:27Let's see if you like my quirky house.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35- Wow! The view.- Yes.- It's gorgeous.
0:21:35 > 0:21:37- That is what you call scenery, isn't it?- It is.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40I can see myself sitting in that chair
0:21:40 > 0:21:42overlooking that view.
0:21:44 > 0:21:48- It's a big room actually. - The ceiling is lovely.- Quirky.- Yes.
0:21:48 > 0:21:52- And we've said we like those glass...- Yes, the glass front.
0:21:52 > 0:21:55- Fabulous.- Shall we continue?- Please.
0:21:58 > 0:22:00This is your master bedroom.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03You have probably noticed it's on the same level.
0:22:03 > 0:22:07- Yes.- Is it you?- Definitely. Definitely maybe!
0:22:07 > 0:22:11I will take the definitely! Linda? Enough storage do you think?
0:22:11 > 0:22:14- Yes.- There is storage here by the looks of it.
0:22:15 > 0:22:20And I love not necessarily sleeping upstairs and different levels.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22- I like all that.- Good.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25There might be something else that gets the pulses racing.
0:22:25 > 0:22:29If you want to follow me, Linda, I think you are going to like this.
0:22:29 > 0:22:33In addition to the bedroom and high ceilinged living space on this floor,
0:22:33 > 0:22:37there's also a spare room with a multipurpose mezzanine upstairs.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40But we are heading downstairs to a little surprise in the cellar.
0:22:40 > 0:22:42Linda.
0:22:42 > 0:22:45- Here is your kitchen. - A separate baking kitchen.
0:22:45 > 0:22:47Your separate baking kitchen.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50You even have a 19th century range there.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53At the moment it's not working, but we know Gary is very talented.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56- He would soon get that working. - Yes.- I love it.
0:22:56 > 0:23:01And also, if you were thinking of running baking parties...
0:23:01 > 0:23:04One of your things is teaching children to bake, isn't it?
0:23:04 > 0:23:06So just little people in here would be perfect.
0:23:06 > 0:23:10And also, they are not then interfering with the rest of the property.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13And a separate entrance. Great.
0:23:13 > 0:23:17It's time to find out how much this mid-19th century property
0:23:17 > 0:23:20could cost them as we head out to the acre of land
0:23:20 > 0:23:22propping the house up on the hill.
0:23:23 > 0:23:29- So, look at that. Breathtaking, isn't it?- Gorgeous.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32How many tents could we put on this plot?
0:23:33 > 0:23:38- Hundreds. We could have a goat.- You could have a goat.- That's an idea.
0:23:38 > 0:23:40- There is one thing, Gary.- Workshop.
0:23:40 > 0:23:46I can't give you a workshop but what I can give you is a Spanish orio.
0:23:46 > 0:23:52Now that, believe it or not, is 400 years old. Far older than the house.
0:23:52 > 0:23:54Used to store grain. These are listed.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57They are part of the heritage of this region.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01But when we say they are listed, it means you can't pull it down.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04But what you can do is modify it.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06So perhaps you could put guests in there
0:24:06 > 0:24:09or it could be the most marvellous workshop.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13- All my tools all laid out. - So let's see.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16How much do you think this wonderful property is on the market for?
0:24:16 > 0:24:19I don't know. 170?
0:24:19 > 0:24:23- OK.- I don't agree. I think it will be less.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26- Give me a figure?- 110.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28- You are actually very good at pricing.- Yes, I am usually.
0:24:28 > 0:24:33- But not on this occasion.- Oh, no! - You are way out.- Really?- Yes.
0:24:33 > 0:24:36Well, there's a price to be put on that
0:24:36 > 0:24:42and the asking price is just under £159,000.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- See, you're good at it.- This time.
0:24:45 > 0:24:49- But it wouldn't put me off, that price.- Does it not?- No. Not at all.
0:24:49 > 0:24:51- You were just hoping.- Yes.
0:24:51 > 0:24:57I am going to send you off to have another look. Off you go. Enjoy.
0:24:57 > 0:25:02At a little under £159,000, this house may just stretch Linda
0:25:02 > 0:25:06and Gary's budget but the owners are very keen to sell.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09It demonstrates the peak of what's available locally
0:25:09 > 0:25:13with stone walls, classic Spanish style and an ancient orio.
0:25:13 > 0:25:17But really, it's all about that show-stopping vista.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19- I could definitely live here. - A little hamlet there.
0:25:19 > 0:25:23That view out the window. Definitely.
0:25:23 > 0:25:25I could just doze off now.
0:25:25 > 0:25:29- I could.- Yes, it's warm and gorgeous.- The sun in my eyes.
0:25:29 > 0:25:34- It's a beautiful view. It's heaven. - Yes.- And the goat maybe.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37We will have to call him Billy!
0:25:39 > 0:25:43Just thinking about the work really. Realistically, how much work is there to do?
0:25:43 > 0:25:45I can see lots of things I would like to change.
0:25:45 > 0:25:50I know I am my own worst enemy but that is how I am.
0:25:50 > 0:25:55Looking at this place, it's made me think that I don't want a new place.
0:25:55 > 0:25:59I know it's a bit contradictory really, but yes,
0:25:59 > 0:26:02I don't want a brand-new place.
0:26:02 > 0:26:05- I like this. It's got character.- Yes.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11There you are. Have you seen enough?
0:26:11 > 0:26:14- Yes.- Happy?- Yes, fabulous. - A lot to take in.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17We have opened your eyes to the properties available, haven't we?
0:26:17 > 0:26:19- Yes.- I have to drag you away now, I'm afraid.
0:26:19 > 0:26:21We are going to hit the road.
0:26:28 > 0:26:32Life in Asturias exists at a slower, more relaxed pace
0:26:32 > 0:26:36to what our buyers maybe used to is one of the joys of Spain.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40And now they have formed a slightly clearer idea of what they want,
0:26:40 > 0:26:43Linda and Gary are keen to phone their agent back home to see
0:26:43 > 0:26:47if they are any closer to clinching a sale on their Bristol house.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51Hi, it's Linda. I just thought I would give you a quick call
0:26:51 > 0:26:53to see whether there was an update.
0:26:53 > 0:26:58As they have been viewing places here, Linda hopes her agents have been just as busy.
0:26:58 > 0:27:04And what about the couple that viewed for the second time last Saturday?
0:27:04 > 0:27:07Try as she may, there is only so much Linda can do
0:27:07 > 0:27:10and there is still no good news forthcoming.
0:27:10 > 0:27:14Oh, dear. Nothing. That's a shame.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23I'm keen to set those frustrations aside with a glimpse of what
0:27:23 > 0:27:26Asturian life could be like for Linda and Gary.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29Given their interest in eco-living, growing their own veg
0:27:29 > 0:27:32and baking, I'm introducing them to Nigel Birch,
0:27:32 > 0:27:35one of the small group of British expats in the region.
0:27:35 > 0:27:40Nigel runs Hotel Posada del Valle, a hotel and extensive organic farm
0:27:40 > 0:27:43in Arriondas to the east of Asturias.
0:27:43 > 0:27:46- Hi, Nigel.- Hello there.- Good to meet you.- Really pleased to meet you.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49- Can I introduce you? - Yes. My hands are a bit dirty!
0:27:49 > 0:27:51You've obviously been hard at it.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53I've just been pulling out some weeds.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56Can we give you a hand while we're here?
0:27:56 > 0:27:59If you want to, you can help me turn some compost.
0:27:59 > 0:28:02That was good timing! We timed that very well, didn't we?
0:28:02 > 0:28:04Anything else you want us to help with?
0:28:04 > 0:28:08Actually, my daughter, Samantha, is in the kitchen about to do some bread baking.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11- I don't know if you want to help her there.- I would love to.
0:28:11 > 0:28:12That is right up your street, isn't it?
0:28:12 > 0:28:15I guess you and I are going to get dirty while she gets creative.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18Right, OK. Let's go this way.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20Nigel has been in Spain for 33 years
0:28:20 > 0:28:23and runs the eight hector low intensity farm and hotel
0:28:23 > 0:28:27with the help of his daughter, Sam, who was born and raised in Spain.
0:28:29 > 0:28:33As Linda heads down to the kitchen to learn some Asturian culinary skills,
0:28:33 > 0:28:35Gary and I receive our marching orders,
0:28:35 > 0:28:39and with over three decades experience in Spanish agriculture,
0:28:39 > 0:28:41we had better pay attention to Nigel.
0:28:41 > 0:28:45One of the important things about the organic vegetable garden is the compost.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48The compost has been in here for three or four weeks
0:28:48 > 0:28:50so we're going to turn the compost from this bin over to the
0:28:50 > 0:28:53other bin and it helps improve the property of the compost.
0:28:53 > 0:28:57- Got it?- Yes.- OK. Pitchfork for Gary. Do you want to take one as well?
0:28:57 > 0:28:59- Yes, please.- There we are. - I will give it my best.
0:29:01 > 0:29:04In the middle. Well done. You're doing it fairly well.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07Oh, the glamour!
0:29:07 > 0:29:10As I toiled with the hotel's biodegradable scraps,
0:29:10 > 0:29:13Gary is keen to quiz Nigel about the local climate.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15Are the winters long here?
0:29:15 > 0:29:18The Spanish seem to say that that Asturias has bad weather.
0:29:18 > 0:29:22I don't think that's true. We have weather, which is nice.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26That's one of the reasons we are looking at this area because we like seasons too.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29When the weather is good, and there's a lot of it too,
0:29:29 > 0:29:33I am either out working on the farm or I go out walking in the mountains because it is a fabulous area.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35Stunning, isn't it?
0:29:35 > 0:29:38We've got fabulous coastlines, fabulous mountains,
0:29:38 > 0:29:40fabulous rural scenery and it's not that known.
0:29:40 > 0:29:43It is kind of a hidden jewel, isn't it?
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- As we work the land...- Hello.- You must be Sam, Nigel's daughter.
0:29:46 > 0:29:50..Linda is embarking on the great Spanish bake off with Sam,
0:29:50 > 0:29:53who not only makes all the bread for the hotel on site,
0:29:53 > 0:29:57but uses natural locally sourced ingredients.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59It's time to get stuck in.
0:29:59 > 0:30:03- Can I have the feel of it?- Please do. - That is a lovely texture.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07Would you say Asturias is a foodie region?
0:30:07 > 0:30:08- I would, yes, very much.- Mm-hmm.
0:30:08 > 0:30:12I mean, we have about 40 different types of cheeses and then,
0:30:12 > 0:30:16you know, everybody here in their own houses have a vegetable garden.
0:30:16 > 0:30:19Yeah, I make wholemeal bread and lots of other wholemeal produce,
0:30:19 > 0:30:24so do you think wholemeal bread would be popular to sell, maybe, at market?
0:30:24 > 0:30:28I think so. We have a typical market in Cangas de Onis,
0:30:28 > 0:30:30which is every Sunday, so...
0:30:30 > 0:30:34- And I also makes scones.- Well, no-one sells scones here yet, no.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37OK, and jam tarts?
0:30:37 > 0:30:40- No, either that's...- And biscuits? - No, not in the market.- Oh, good.
0:30:40 > 0:30:44Now that Linda's explored a possible outlet for her baking,
0:30:44 > 0:30:47and Gary's worked up a sweat, we're meeting over a glass of cider
0:30:47 > 0:30:50and some local cheese.
0:30:50 > 0:30:52So is it tricky buying property here?
0:30:52 > 0:30:55- Do your homework first, check things out.- Yeah.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Try and make sure that you're aware of what you're buying.
0:30:58 > 0:30:59There's a lot of unique properties
0:30:59 > 0:31:02- and it's very difficult to put a value on them.- Mmm, I see.
0:31:02 > 0:31:04I'm an electrician by trade. I'm pretty hands-on,
0:31:04 > 0:31:07so we're not looking for a property that needs loads of work
0:31:07 > 0:31:09but I'd quite like to have a little project.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12There's a lot of protected areas in Asturias.
0:31:12 > 0:31:13Generally, in a protected area,
0:31:13 > 0:31:16you cannot change the use of a building.
0:31:16 > 0:31:18So if the building's a barn, and it's in a protected area,
0:31:18 > 0:31:21- you cannot make it into a house. - That's good advice, that is.- Yeah.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23And you can find that out in the town hall,
0:31:23 > 0:31:25you can find out what the land usage of the area is.
0:31:25 > 0:31:28Also, again, if you're increasing the volume, it depends on the area
0:31:28 > 0:31:31whether they'll allow you to increase the volume of the property.
0:31:31 > 0:31:33Right.
0:31:33 > 0:31:35Oh, so many questions.
0:31:35 > 0:31:37And how long did it take you to get the language?
0:31:37 > 0:31:39That's something I'm slightly concerned...
0:31:39 > 0:31:42You really do have to make an effort with your Spanish
0:31:42 > 0:31:45- if you come over here, cos there's not many foreign people.- No.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48There is a need to be able to integrate with the people in the rural areas.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51Your conversation points are cows, cows, cows and cows.
0:31:51 > 0:31:52Erm, so...
0:31:52 > 0:31:55It'll suit me.
0:31:55 > 0:31:57I'm sure it's possible for anyone to learn,
0:31:57 > 0:32:00if you have to, and if you want to.
0:32:00 > 0:32:02- Right.- There's something here called Comparte Lenguas
0:32:02 > 0:32:03which they're doing a lot,
0:32:03 > 0:32:05whereby Spanish people want to learn English
0:32:05 > 0:32:08- and English people want to learn Spanish.- I've heard of that.
0:32:08 > 0:32:10They get together and speak half an hour together in Spanish
0:32:10 > 0:32:12and the other half an hour in English.
0:32:12 > 0:32:14- That's a great idea. - It is a great idea.
0:32:14 > 0:32:17The health service, I believe it's very good.
0:32:17 > 0:32:19We're lucky living here in Arriondas,
0:32:19 > 0:32:20which is 3km from where we are now.
0:32:20 > 0:32:23We've got the hospital for the whole of the eastern area of Asturias.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25We've also got a medical centre,
0:32:25 > 0:32:27so we're certainly happy with the public health here.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30We hear and read so much about the Spanish economy
0:32:30 > 0:32:33- but what is its current state? - That's difficult to answer.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36According to the government, things are getting much better here,
0:32:36 > 0:32:38but in this area, and the more rural areas,
0:32:38 > 0:32:42there was never a real boom and there's never been a real collapse.
0:32:42 > 0:32:44- Mm-hmm.- Right.- We live in Bristol -
0:32:44 > 0:32:46we live on a major road.
0:32:46 > 0:32:49It's always busy. We're just a mile or so from the city centre,
0:32:49 > 0:32:52so this would be quite a contrast for us.
0:32:52 > 0:32:54What do you think?
0:32:54 > 0:32:57Waking up to no road or traffic noise,
0:32:57 > 0:33:00or people screaming in the streets is just...
0:33:00 > 0:33:02Well, for me it's lovely, I love it.
0:33:02 > 0:33:05You know, you just wake up in a good mood.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07- Ooh.- You know, you wake up with a smile.
0:33:07 > 0:33:10- Sounds perfect, the way you put it, that was beautiful.- Yeah.
0:33:10 > 0:33:14- Really beautiful.- Yeah, great. - Definitely coming here.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16- You want that quality of life, don't you?- Yeah.
0:33:16 > 0:33:19Armed with all that extra information,
0:33:19 > 0:33:22Linda and Gary appear keener than ever to make the move.
0:33:22 > 0:33:25When budgeting for a house in Spain,
0:33:25 > 0:33:28you should set aside 11% of the price for fees and taxes.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31Exchange rates should also be a key consideration,
0:33:31 > 0:33:34as they can hugely impact your budget.
0:33:34 > 0:33:37Specialist brokers can offer forward contracts which
0:33:37 > 0:33:39fix an exchange rate for a future transaction,
0:33:39 > 0:33:43and avoid unpredictable and costly fluctuations.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46Spain's health care is among the most efficient in Europe,
0:33:46 > 0:33:49with consistently high efficiency rankings.
0:33:49 > 0:33:52Early retirees need to be careful, though.
0:33:52 > 0:33:56The NHS no longer reimburses EU states for costs incurred
0:33:56 > 0:33:59by a nonworking Brits under pensionable age,
0:33:59 > 0:34:02so health insurance is highly recommended.
0:34:11 > 0:34:14We're driving to Villaviciosa for the most coastal
0:34:14 > 0:34:17property of our selection, six miles from the shores of
0:34:17 > 0:34:21the Bay of Biscay, and a 35-minute drive from Gijon.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25It's a prime example of the Asturian marriage of mountain and sea -
0:34:25 > 0:34:28imposing peaks dwarfing unspoilt fishing towns
0:34:28 > 0:34:32such as Lastres and Ribadesella nearby.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36And whilst Linda and Gary seem to have decided on old rather than new,
0:34:36 > 0:34:40their journey has been littered by some contradictions.
0:34:40 > 0:34:44We used to draw what our ideal house was and it was a garage,
0:34:44 > 0:34:46a double and live on top.
0:34:46 > 0:34:50We didn't realise, you know, that there was all of this in Spain.
0:34:50 > 0:34:54So I'm taking a chance with this next more modern house.
0:34:54 > 0:34:56- Is this...?- Yes.
0:34:56 > 0:35:00- Oh, lovely.- Yeah, I wasn't expecting it to be this.
0:35:00 > 0:35:02- No, because it's so peaceful and quiet.- Yeah,
0:35:02 > 0:35:05- and a lot bigger than I was expecting.- Yeah.- Yeah,
0:35:05 > 0:35:08- I'm dying to see it. - Yeah, shall we?- Yeah.- Yeah.
0:35:08 > 0:35:10This four-year-old property stands apart from
0:35:10 > 0:35:14its more traditional neighbours, but will the modern practical style
0:35:14 > 0:35:16be enough to impress our house hunters?
0:35:16 > 0:35:19- So...- Yeah. - Yeah, this is a lovely big room.
0:35:19 > 0:35:22You could sit and have your snacks there, couldn't you?
0:35:22 > 0:35:25- And the fire here. - A special baking table,
0:35:25 > 0:35:27- and a dining table.- Yeah.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30- I like the view out of that window. - Ah...
0:35:30 > 0:35:32- Now, why would that be, Gary? - LINDA LAUGHS
0:35:32 > 0:35:37- What have you just spotted?- I think it might be a garage or a workshop.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39- Yeah.- Just before we head upstairs,
0:35:39 > 0:35:41there's a little bit of geography for the ground floor.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- Got a double bedroom downstairs... - Oh, lovely.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47..and I wonder how many we've got upstairs.
0:35:47 > 0:35:50'Well, there are four more up here, all continuing the villa's
0:35:50 > 0:35:53'contemporary theme from downstairs'
0:35:53 > 0:35:56but will Gary and Linda know what to do with so much space?
0:35:57 > 0:36:02- So this is your master bedroom. - Very nice.- It's big.- Yeah.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05- Complete with- en-suite. Mmm.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08Really modern, yeah, and that view.
0:36:08 > 0:36:12- So you've actually got four bedrooms upstairs.- Yeah.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14Got plenty of room for visitors.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18Should you want a little bit of extra during the summer months,
0:36:18 > 0:36:20- you could actually do a B&B in this property.- Mmm.
0:36:20 > 0:36:24- We were thinking of that. - I thought that, actually. - Yeah, you said it before, yeah.
0:36:24 > 0:36:26Guessing the price is going to be interesting.
0:36:26 > 0:36:28Well, it's funny you should say that,
0:36:28 > 0:36:30because we are going to head outside.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35'The rear opens out to a patio space and sizeable garden,
0:36:35 > 0:36:37'and having already spotted the shed,'
0:36:37 > 0:36:40Gary's eagle eye spots another fixture.
0:36:40 > 0:36:41It's a barbie.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44Your world is complete.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49'The big house lies in just under half an acre of land,'
0:36:49 > 0:36:52and offers up one more useful feature that our eco-aware couple
0:36:52 > 0:36:55are bound to appreciate.
0:36:55 > 0:36:56- You might have noticed...- Yeah.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58- ..the solar panels next to us. - Oh, yes, yeah.
0:36:58 > 0:37:01- I'm impressed with those.- It saves your energy bills by about 30%.
0:37:01 > 0:37:04- Yeah.- I'd probably do some kind of a solar panel system,
0:37:04 > 0:37:06as well, for the electric.
0:37:06 > 0:37:09How much do you think this house is on the market for?
0:37:09 > 0:37:13It's got to be way over our budget, I would guess.
0:37:13 > 0:37:15I don't know. 200,000?
0:37:15 > 0:37:17OK. Linda?
0:37:17 > 0:37:21I'm going to say 125.
0:37:21 > 0:37:23I think you two are going to be flabbergasted.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26The asking price is just over...
0:37:26 > 0:37:29- £95,000.- Ooh.
0:37:29 > 0:37:30What? Are you joking?
0:37:30 > 0:37:32Yeah, I'm not joking.
0:37:32 > 0:37:36- Shocked, I am. I can't believe that. - And nor can I.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39We could do loads of things with that extra money.
0:37:39 > 0:37:41I could do a big solar panel project.
0:37:41 > 0:37:43- I honestly wasn't expecting that. - I know.
0:37:43 > 0:37:45I bet you want to have another look round now, don't you?
0:37:45 > 0:37:48- I can check out the options, now. - You'll be looking at it in
0:37:48 > 0:37:50more detail, I know you will. Off you go.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53A whopping £60,000 under budget,
0:37:53 > 0:37:57and with a potential 40% saving overall,
0:37:57 > 0:38:01Linda and Gary have been blindsided by this unconventional property.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04If anything, it could be a tad more than they bargained for,
0:38:04 > 0:38:08but at this price, can they really afford to ignore it?
0:38:08 > 0:38:12I'm still in shock about the price.
0:38:12 > 0:38:15So affordable, it kind of makes you change your...
0:38:15 > 0:38:16your thought pattern, doesn't it?
0:38:16 > 0:38:18You know, lots of things to check out
0:38:18 > 0:38:21and lots of things to talk about, especially the price.
0:38:21 > 0:38:24Gary, did you get inside the shed?
0:38:24 > 0:38:26No, but I can see in it.
0:38:26 > 0:38:27- Yeah?- Yeah, it's all nice and clean.
0:38:27 > 0:38:30- Looks like they store linen or something in there.- Oh, good, good.
0:38:30 > 0:38:32- So it's dry.- Yeah.
0:38:32 > 0:38:34- It's a lovely view from up here. - Is it?
0:38:34 > 0:38:37It's really beautiful.
0:38:37 > 0:38:39Did you say you've been to the bottom of the garden?
0:38:39 > 0:38:41Yeah, yeah, it's really long,
0:38:41 > 0:38:44- so there is plenty of flat areas for tents.- Yeah.
0:38:44 > 0:38:47- And not forgetting the compost toilet.- No.
0:38:47 > 0:38:51We're not people who have stocks, shares and savings - that's it.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54So the most you can do with it, you know, the better.
0:38:54 > 0:38:56It's interesting, isn't it?
0:38:56 > 0:38:58Because this house isn't what they asked for.
0:38:58 > 0:39:02It's large, it's modern and it's got five bedrooms,
0:39:02 > 0:39:04but when it comes with a price tag like that...
0:39:04 > 0:39:06Oh, it's certainly got them thinking.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12- Oh, how are we?- Great, yeah. - Yeah, great.
0:39:12 > 0:39:14- Have you seen enough? Are you happy? - Yes, yeah.
0:39:14 > 0:39:15- Let's hit the road.- OK.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24As night falls, Linda and Gary get to experience
0:39:24 > 0:39:27the best of what life could be like for them in northern Spain.
0:39:27 > 0:39:28Yay!
0:39:28 > 0:39:31- Oh...- Oh, it's nice to see you.
0:39:32 > 0:39:35Thanks. Yeah, how was the journey?
0:39:35 > 0:39:36- Mum, I...- Mwah!
0:39:36 > 0:39:38Their youngest daughter Jane -
0:39:38 > 0:39:40whom they haven't seen for two months
0:39:40 > 0:39:42since she moved to Madrid - is visiting.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45We miss you...a lot.
0:39:45 > 0:39:47- Oh, and all... - Emotional blackmail, is that it?
0:39:47 > 0:39:50Yeah, it's all those jobs that Dad did in the flat for you.
0:39:50 > 0:39:54- Yeah, yeah.- That's true, that is true.- That was useful, wasn't it?
0:39:54 > 0:39:58Our landlord is useless, you must move here immediately.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01No, but we do miss you. Have you seen anything you like?
0:40:01 > 0:40:03- I've liked them all in different ways.- Yeah...
0:40:03 > 0:40:06It's almost like you can make any of them fit.
0:40:06 > 0:40:08- You've got a positive attitude, that's right...- Yeah.
0:40:08 > 0:40:12- ..but is there an extra room for me and Amy?- Yeah, oh, yes.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15- In all of them?- Yes. - Especially in the last one.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18But the one thing that I'd really like, with...
0:40:18 > 0:40:23you know, we've got more to see... is to be a bit closer to here.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26So if you decide on a house,
0:40:26 > 0:40:29then you could be here within three or four months.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32Make sure that you get the things that are important to you.
0:40:32 > 0:40:36- Yeah.- I know sometimes you can change your mind about what you think is
0:40:36 > 0:40:38important, cos you've waited so long to have the space.
0:40:38 > 0:40:41- That's come up quite a lot today. - Yeah, it has, actually, yeah.
0:40:41 > 0:40:43That's... just making sure that you...
0:40:43 > 0:40:46- your priorities are your priorities. - Yeah, and don't get, maybe,
0:40:46 > 0:40:48- dazzled by other things. - Yeah, exactly.
0:40:48 > 0:40:50- The prices and things, you know. - Yeah.
0:40:50 > 0:40:53Pep talk complete, the group are free to soak up
0:40:53 > 0:40:57another lovely Asturian evening, and a bit more local cider.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13It's morning in Asturias, where our couple from Bristol are
0:41:13 > 0:41:19looking for a bohemian getaway that fits within their £155,000 budget.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22Linda and Gary have sampled the rural charm
0:41:22 > 0:41:25of life in the Spanish mountains in a rented property,
0:41:25 > 0:41:27and with the morning off from house hunting,
0:41:27 > 0:41:30Linda continues to sample the region
0:41:30 > 0:41:33by heading out in search of some core baking ingredients.
0:41:33 > 0:41:38Toiletries, drinks, baby food...
0:41:40 > 0:41:42Oh...
0:41:43 > 0:41:44Erm...
0:41:57 > 0:41:59Ah, I see.
0:41:59 > 0:42:00Erm...
0:42:06 > 0:42:08Erm, corn.
0:42:08 > 0:42:09Yeah, mai...ma...
0:42:09 > 0:42:10maize.
0:42:15 > 0:42:16Oh, gracias.
0:42:17 > 0:42:21This particular search may have come to a fruitless end, but hopefully
0:42:21 > 0:42:25we can steer things back on course with today's Mystery Property.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31It's been really difficult to gauge precisely what
0:42:31 > 0:42:33Gary and Linda want with this move.
0:42:33 > 0:42:37They've seen good and bad in each of our properties, but today,
0:42:37 > 0:42:41with our Mystery House, we're really going to test their eco-credentials.
0:42:41 > 0:42:44In fact, this property will be literally
0:42:44 > 0:42:45throwing them in at the deep end.
0:42:47 > 0:42:51Today, we loop back to the central Covadonga highway
0:42:51 > 0:42:53and the remote agricultural village of Sevares,
0:42:53 > 0:42:5714 miles west of the Picos National Park.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00The small inland community offers both practicality
0:43:00 > 0:43:02and a rustic seclusion,
0:43:02 > 0:43:06and although epic views of the Picos are a mere 30-minute drive away,
0:43:06 > 0:43:09commercialism and mass-tourism have bypassed
0:43:09 > 0:43:12this secluded part of Asturias.
0:43:12 > 0:43:14From afar, the Mystery Property appears to reflect
0:43:14 > 0:43:19this peacefulness, but once they get a glimpse of its incredible scope,
0:43:19 > 0:43:22our buyers will see that there's much more here than meets the eye.
0:43:22 > 0:43:26So I'm sure you both realise with our Mystery House, it's got to
0:43:26 > 0:43:31be something a little bit different, here in northern Spain.
0:43:31 > 0:43:33- Lovely.- Well... - LAUGHTER
0:43:33 > 0:43:35- Surprised?- Yeah. Which part?
0:43:35 > 0:43:37- All of it.- The orio as well?
0:43:37 > 0:43:42- So you've got the orio, you've got a watermill...- Oh, yeah.
0:43:42 > 0:43:45- ..and you've got a house, as well. - Wow.
0:43:46 > 0:43:49- Flipping mint! - Can't wait to have a look.
0:43:49 > 0:43:51So I think you both need to take a deep breath
0:43:51 > 0:43:53and we'll start exploring.
0:43:55 > 0:43:58The mill itself dates back to the 16th century,
0:43:58 > 0:44:02and in more recent times, operated as an eco-museum.
0:44:02 > 0:44:05It's now part of a self-sufficient eco-home,
0:44:05 > 0:44:08but will Linda and Gary be quite as keen once
0:44:08 > 0:44:13they take a closer look at the alfresco layout inside?
0:44:13 > 0:44:17Well, the only thing I can say is, "Welcome."
0:44:17 > 0:44:20Oh, it's fabulous, cos it's like an open-air kitchen,
0:44:20 > 0:44:23which is something I've always wanted, believe it or not.
0:44:23 > 0:44:25I think this is more what we had in mind, really.
0:44:25 > 0:44:27- It is.- Is it?- Yeah, yeah. - It definitely is.
0:44:27 > 0:44:28It definitely is, actually, yeah.
0:44:28 > 0:44:30There's loads of things you could do.
0:44:30 > 0:44:32It's beautiful.
0:44:32 > 0:44:35Now, if you like this, you're going to LOVE this.
0:44:36 > 0:44:40Here is your sitting room/kitchen.
0:44:40 > 0:44:43- Wow, look at that. - Oh, it's gorgeous.
0:44:43 > 0:44:45I'm going to sit on that stool all day.
0:44:45 > 0:44:47- Right by the fire?- Yeah.
0:44:47 > 0:44:51- It's beautiful, I think it's really, definitely us.- Yeah.
0:44:51 > 0:44:54Just the feel of it... It's beautiful, I love it.
0:44:54 > 0:44:58Yeah, I'm lost for words.
0:44:58 > 0:45:00How much work do you think is going to need to be done in here?
0:45:00 > 0:45:04We might do some kind of, like, secondary double glazing.
0:45:04 > 0:45:07We would have to see how it goes in the winter, I guess.
0:45:07 > 0:45:09It's not the sort of place you'd put matching curtains...
0:45:09 > 0:45:11No, no, I wouldn't have curtains or anything.
0:45:11 > 0:45:14There is also something else that, Linda,
0:45:14 > 0:45:16- you're not going to believe is here.- Not a compost toilet.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20- I'm afraid so.- Really?
0:45:20 > 0:45:24- Yes.- Honestly?- Yeah. - I'm worried about the price.
0:45:24 > 0:45:27I think that's a good sign though, if you're already worrying about
0:45:27 > 0:45:29the price it means you're serious.
0:45:29 > 0:45:31Yeah, yeah. Where is the toilet, then?
0:45:33 > 0:45:35Communal facilities aside,
0:45:35 > 0:45:39the main house consists of around 100 square metres across two floors.
0:45:39 > 0:45:43But upstairs, there is just one bedroom. Well, of sorts.
0:45:43 > 0:45:49- Here is your fully fitted bedroom with all mod cons.- And balcony.
0:45:49 > 0:45:54- It's a blank canvas. - It's gorgeous. It's almost perfect.
0:45:54 > 0:45:58- You know, it's the sort of thing that I exactly wanted.- Is it really?
0:45:58 > 0:46:02- Yeah, it is. Yes.- Gary?- Yes.
0:46:02 > 0:46:04You don't sound quite as convinced there.
0:46:04 > 0:46:08- I am. It's just so different that I don't know.- It is.
0:46:08 > 0:46:11You're thinking of the cold, yeah,
0:46:11 > 0:46:15because Gary always thinks about being cold. So that would be a bit of work.
0:46:15 > 0:46:16Not much but to make it...
0:46:16 > 0:46:20- We could probably put something across that beam there.- Yeah, yeah.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22A pleasant challenge.
0:46:22 > 0:46:24Linda's clearly fallen for the property -
0:46:24 > 0:46:28skeletal kitchen, windowless rooms, open ceilings and all.
0:46:28 > 0:46:31And I'm willing to bet that her enthusiasm is set to be
0:46:31 > 0:46:35matched by Gary once he gets a look inside that mill.
0:46:36 > 0:46:39It looks like there is wiring already been done.
0:46:39 > 0:46:44- You would be right because this can provide all the energy for the house.- Wow.
0:46:44 > 0:46:46You've always wanted a house powered by water.
0:46:46 > 0:46:50- You've talked about that for donkey's years.- I know, yeah. I am a donkey.
0:46:51 > 0:46:53I would be in here for days.
0:46:54 > 0:46:57How long do you reckon it would take you to hook up the house
0:46:57 > 0:46:59next door for all its energy?
0:46:59 > 0:47:02Well, if this is generating enough energy, a week.
0:47:02 > 0:47:05You know I said I didn't want a big project,
0:47:05 > 0:47:08- but I would love to do something like that.- Yes.
0:47:08 > 0:47:11- And I've noticed something else. - What else have you noticed?
0:47:11 > 0:47:13I was trying to hide it from her.
0:47:13 > 0:47:14I was trying to hide it from her.
0:47:14 > 0:47:17Because this is your domain.
0:47:17 > 0:47:21- But you have even got your own ancient range.- Oh, wow.
0:47:21 > 0:47:26- Is that a sign?- There are so many signs in this house.- Yeah.
0:47:26 > 0:47:29Linda may have a battle on her hands if she thinks
0:47:29 > 0:47:32she is going to be able to share the mill's work space with Gary.
0:47:32 > 0:47:36But for now, it's time to see what the ancient orio holds in store.
0:47:36 > 0:47:40- So, your very own orio. - Wow, it's fabulous.
0:47:40 > 0:47:44- We've always looked at these, haven't we?- Yeah, it's big.
0:47:44 > 0:47:47- It seems bigger than normal. - It's a good space, isn't it?
0:47:47 > 0:47:49Yeah, it's like another house, really.
0:47:49 > 0:47:51Because you use it for so many things.
0:47:51 > 0:47:55- Well, what would the two of you do with it?- Backpackers, things like that.
0:47:55 > 0:47:59- It's like a barn, you know, barn camping.- It's beautiful, isn't it? - I love it.
0:47:59 > 0:48:03Let's head outside because we still need to talk about the land.
0:48:03 > 0:48:05Mind your heads.
0:48:05 > 0:48:08At every turn, this property gives Linda and Gary
0:48:08 > 0:48:11more and more to get excited about but as evening sets in,
0:48:11 > 0:48:14they are about to realise just how much land there is to manage
0:48:14 > 0:48:17with the terrain, crops and orchard.
0:48:17 > 0:48:22It works out to about 1.6 acres.
0:48:22 > 0:48:25There is so much land and it's so beautiful,
0:48:25 > 0:48:28- it must be quite expensive. - I know, I'm thinking price...
0:48:28 > 0:48:32- Are you itching now?- Yes, yes. - To talk money.- Yes.
0:48:32 > 0:48:36- Is it under, on, or over your budget?- Over.
0:48:36 > 0:48:39You look really worried.
0:48:39 > 0:48:44- Well, I'm thinking, like, a couple of hundred thousand.- OK.
0:48:44 > 0:48:49- That's what I'm thinking.- I would say, pure guess really, 180.
0:48:49 > 0:48:53- And would 180 be worth it for you, for this project?- Oh, yes.
0:48:53 > 0:48:56- Should we all put our fingers like this?- Yes, cross everything.
0:48:56 > 0:49:01The asking price is just over...
0:49:01 > 0:49:03£126,000.
0:49:04 > 0:49:06- We'll have it.- Yeah.
0:49:07 > 0:49:10- Really, yeah.- Really?- Yeah.
0:49:10 > 0:49:13That would leave us some money to do the electrics
0:49:13 > 0:49:14and to do lots of things.
0:49:14 > 0:49:19- So do you fancy having a quick look around?- I do.- Be my guest.
0:49:19 > 0:49:20Off you go.
0:49:20 > 0:49:23Nearly £30,000 under budget, this mill
0:49:23 > 0:49:27and its entire way of life suits Linda and Gary to a T,
0:49:27 > 0:49:31leaving enough in the budget for the renovations needed.
0:49:31 > 0:49:33To most, this would be little more than an engaging
0:49:33 > 0:49:38piece of history, but Linda and Gary simply aren't most people.
0:49:38 > 0:49:41But, yeah, I love modern, new, pristine...
0:49:41 > 0:49:43for somebody else.
0:49:43 > 0:49:46But for me, this is it.
0:49:46 > 0:49:51I could see myself pottering around in here and getting stuff done.
0:49:51 > 0:49:53You'd get a lot of satisfaction out of doing this.
0:49:53 > 0:49:55It would be a labour of love.
0:49:55 > 0:49:59It kind of looks like what I had in my mind's eye, you know.
0:49:59 > 0:50:01Yeah, definitely.
0:50:03 > 0:50:08- Are we all done?- Yeah.- Yes. - You have enjoyed that, haven't you?
0:50:08 > 0:50:12And this is our final house, so you two have plenty to think about.
0:50:12 > 0:50:13- Loads.- Let's go.
0:50:26 > 0:50:28With over 100 varieties of apple grown on the Atlantic coast
0:50:28 > 0:50:32of northern Spain, it's little wonder that cider-making
0:50:32 > 0:50:35and its consumption is a regional obsession,
0:50:35 > 0:50:38with the average Asturian purported to consume up
0:50:38 > 0:50:41to 54 litres of cider every year.
0:50:41 > 0:50:44I've been invited to experience this historic trade
0:50:44 > 0:50:50by third generation producer, Marta Miralda from Sidra Real Castanon.
0:50:50 > 0:50:53Cider is produced in big mills and small garages alike,
0:50:53 > 0:50:57with family run apple orchards littering the countryside.
0:50:57 > 0:51:01Marta's family mill chomps through a staggering 1.5 million apples
0:51:01 > 0:51:06every year en route to producing one million litres of premium Asturian cider.
0:51:07 > 0:51:10They source the apples from all across the region.
0:51:10 > 0:51:14So you buy the apples from all the locals? They will bring them here?
0:51:14 > 0:51:17It's like a family business.
0:51:17 > 0:51:20In Asturias, we have so many different apple varieties.
0:51:20 > 0:51:24And do you take all those different varieties of apples?
0:51:24 > 0:51:29For the cider, natural cider, we need acidic, not sweet apples.
0:51:32 > 0:51:35Now this, this is a lot of apples.
0:51:35 > 0:51:37What is actually going on here, Marta?
0:51:37 > 0:51:39We get the apples and we wash it.
0:51:39 > 0:51:44- So how important is cider to this region?- It's in our lives.
0:51:44 > 0:51:50- Cider is in our blood in Asturias. - You are passionate about it.
0:51:50 > 0:51:56It's our passion. You can see cider everywhere in Asturias.
0:51:56 > 0:52:01So Marta, Asturian cider is famous, but what is the difference?
0:52:01 > 0:52:05The taste is different. It's not sweet at all.
0:52:05 > 0:52:10It's a natural taste and we can drink it.
0:52:10 > 0:52:14That sounds good to me. I want to see the whole process.
0:52:14 > 0:52:17The apples are sorted, crushed and pressed.
0:52:17 > 0:52:21The smaller sour varieties of crab apple give the cider its freshness.
0:52:21 > 0:52:26While sweet and bitter varieties produce its variations in taste.
0:52:26 > 0:52:29Sidra here is fermented and matured in metallic tanks for several
0:52:29 > 0:52:34months until its alcohol content is around 5%.
0:52:34 > 0:52:38It's then transferred to vast chestnut wood barrels.
0:52:38 > 0:52:42Samples are then mixed by one man, senior taster, Julian Castanon,
0:52:42 > 0:52:45whose job it is to produce the mill's trademark taste.
0:52:45 > 0:52:47At maximum capacity,
0:52:47 > 0:52:52they can produce up to 6,000 bottles of cider per hour here, but for now,
0:52:52 > 0:52:55it's time to meet Julian to see the best tradition of them all.
0:52:55 > 0:53:00- You are ready?- I'm ready.- Please.
0:53:00 > 0:53:01THEY SPEAK SPANISH
0:53:01 > 0:53:03He is going to serve it.
0:53:06 > 0:53:09It's strictly served in small sampling portions
0:53:09 > 0:53:12poured from high up to oxygenate the beverage.
0:53:12 > 0:53:16Here, you don't ask for a glass, you request a trademark cooling.
0:53:16 > 0:53:19HE SPEAKS SPANISH
0:53:19 > 0:53:24- He said that you have to drink it in one go.- In one go?
0:53:24 > 0:53:29- This is the first time I will have tried Asturian cider. In one, yes? - In one.
0:53:31 > 0:53:37Mmm... That's delicious. Could I have a go? I'm going to get covered.
0:53:40 > 0:53:45- That wasn't too bad at all. Was that a good one?- Yes, yes, enough.
0:53:45 > 0:53:48Enough? It's all in the taste, isn't it?
0:53:50 > 0:53:53That's tasted even better than the first time.
0:53:53 > 0:53:58- Thank you very much indeed. Thank you.- That's the taste of Asturias.
0:53:58 > 0:54:01- Cheers.- Enjoy it.
0:54:04 > 0:54:08As the mists sweep up through the mountains, we're reaching
0:54:08 > 0:54:12the conclusion of Linda and Gary's stay in northern Spain.
0:54:12 > 0:54:15It's time for our buyers to pack up and decide on their next move.
0:54:17 > 0:54:21But before making their final decision on the right rural hideaway,
0:54:21 > 0:54:25they're taking one last opportunity to soak up the region with
0:54:25 > 0:54:29- a trip on the high seas. - We've never done this before.- No, no.
0:54:30 > 0:54:34- I know you like the water, you've always said about boats.- Yeah.
0:54:34 > 0:54:36Your dad had a little one.
0:54:36 > 0:54:39Yeah, we are approaching a lovely beach by the looks of things.
0:54:39 > 0:54:42And for Gary, it has been an opportunity to gain a fresh
0:54:42 > 0:54:45perspective on his life back in the UK.
0:54:45 > 0:54:49I feel the need to get rid of our house because it's just...
0:54:50 > 0:54:54Every room I walk into, I can see lots more work.
0:54:54 > 0:54:56It represents a sort of freedom, doesn't it?
0:54:56 > 0:55:01Yeah, that's what I meant. Get rid of that and then I'll feel more free.
0:55:01 > 0:55:03Nothing holding us back.
0:55:07 > 0:55:08So there you have it.
0:55:08 > 0:55:12We have shown Gary and Linda our properties here in Asturias
0:55:12 > 0:55:15and although they've been very positive about all our houses,
0:55:15 > 0:55:18I think on reflection, they've had some doubts.
0:55:18 > 0:55:23However, that mystery house literally blew their minds.
0:55:23 > 0:55:26I wonder if they still feel the same way about it today.
0:55:26 > 0:55:28Let's go and find out.
0:55:31 > 0:55:33So Gary and Linda, tell me,
0:55:33 > 0:55:35how do you feel the last few days have gone?
0:55:35 > 0:55:38- What do you think you have learned? - It is so different here, isn't it?
0:55:38 > 0:55:41You know, the properties are entirely different.
0:55:41 > 0:55:43It seems like you get loads more for your money.
0:55:43 > 0:55:46In a way, I got the feeling that not a lot of homework is done.
0:55:46 > 0:55:47That would be correct.
0:55:47 > 0:55:51I suppose we were kind of thinking in terms of what we're used to
0:55:51 > 0:55:55so we weren't even 100% sure of what we wanted, I don't think.
0:55:55 > 0:55:58You weren't sure, we certainly weren't sure.
0:55:58 > 0:56:01So have we got a little bit closer to what you actually want?
0:56:01 > 0:56:06- I think we've got exactly what we wanted.- Come on, then. Come on, then.
0:56:06 > 0:56:09- A certain property. - The last property.
0:56:09 > 0:56:13I don't think we knew it, but that was exactly what we were looking for.
0:56:13 > 0:56:16Yeah, yeah, it means that we can put into practice all the things that we
0:56:16 > 0:56:20always wanted, like energy from water, growing things,
0:56:20 > 0:56:23I'm now getting a bit tired of saying this, but the compost toilet.
0:56:23 > 0:56:26I guess what we should have done was said
0:56:26 > 0:56:29we want a watermill with an orio and somewhere to live.
0:56:29 > 0:56:34- With no windows.- That would have saved us a lot of time, wouldn't it?
0:56:34 > 0:56:37- So, are you going to put an offer in?- Yes, yes.
0:56:37 > 0:56:41I mean, we haven't sold our house yet but we expect it to be sold.
0:56:41 > 0:56:44- Maybe when we get home.- Yeah, it is a possibility. We will sell it.
0:56:44 > 0:56:46Even if we have to drop it a bit, you know.
0:56:46 > 0:56:49So you are actually prepared to drop the price of your home
0:56:49 > 0:56:52- in Bristol to secure the mystery house?- Yes, definitely.
0:56:52 > 0:56:55Now, this mystery house with all its merits,
0:56:55 > 0:56:57we know it is a working museum.
0:56:57 > 0:56:59In a way, you are going to be living that life.
0:56:59 > 0:57:03- Being a museum piece myself, it is perfect.- Never.
0:57:03 > 0:57:07What do you think, personally, for each of you, this move will make?
0:57:07 > 0:57:09What different is it going to make to your lives?
0:57:09 > 0:57:14I'm going to spend all day, every day, outside doing things.
0:57:14 > 0:57:15And Gary?
0:57:15 > 0:57:19I'm going to tinker about in the watermill and get electric shocks.
0:57:20 > 0:57:22Gary's workshop.
0:57:22 > 0:57:29Can I just say, we are thrilled that we have found you that perfect ideal property.
0:57:29 > 0:57:32And I'm delighted it is the mystery house.
0:57:32 > 0:57:36- All the best and enjoy your new life over here.- Thank you.
0:57:41 > 0:57:45What a great ending to our search here in Asturias.
0:57:45 > 0:57:46Now, Gary and Linda's outlook on life,
0:57:46 > 0:57:52that spontaneity, that wonderful naivety, it is so refreshing,
0:57:52 > 0:57:55and I'm delighted they found what they are after.
0:57:55 > 0:57:59Something in fact, they didn't even know they wanted. What a couple.
0:57:59 > 0:58:02I'll see you again soon.
0:58:02 > 0:58:05Although their house in Bristol is still on the market,
0:58:05 > 0:58:08Linda and Gary have arranged to visit the mystery house once
0:58:08 > 0:58:11again to start negotiations with the owner.
0:58:11 > 0:58:12They've even booked a room at
0:58:12 > 0:58:15Nigel's mountainside hotel for the trip.