Francis Lawrence, "The Hunger Games" director, along with the owners of Villa Caunedo.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Somiedo
Nina Jacobson, "The Hunger Games" producer.
Less than 40 years ago, Hollywood landed in Spain to film productions that would go down in the history of cinema. Just remember, for example, "Doctor Zhivago" (David Lean, 1965), along with a long list of films of all genres: from spaghetti westerns to major blockbusters.
Sergio Leone, with titles such as "For a Few Dollars More", "A Fistful of Dollars", and "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly", turned Clint Eastwood into a worldwide star.
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Asturias, as a film set, has also played an important role. Directors such as José Luis Garci and Gonzalo Suárez shot some of their best films here, finding unique settings in Gijón, Avilés, Cudillero, and the Picos de Europa, which allowed them to project a very personal vision of Asturias.
At that time, film crews were looking for locations in this natural paradise that, over the years, became unmistakable symbols of Spanish cinema. Cudillero, Covadonga, and other corners of the Principality were transformed into memorable film sets, contributing immeasurable value to the international impact of these productions.
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This summer, once again, Asturias became a great film set. The Somiedo Natural Park was chosen as the location for one of Hollywood’s most anticipated productions: The Hunger Games, directed by Francis Lawrence.
After scouting locations in different parts of Spain, the production team was captivated by the unique beauty of the Valle del Lago and its surroundings, a landscape that combines unspoiled nature with cinematic grandeur.
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During July and August, more than 300 people — including technicians, actors, and specialists — settled in Oviedo, Teverga, Babia and mainly in Somiedo, to bring the new installment of the saga to life. The logistical challenge was enormous: a mountain region with limited hotel and lodging options had to host an international crew. Producer Nina Jacobson coordinated a titanic effort to ensure accommodation, transport, and supplies in an area unaccustomed to such a massive influx.
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In their search for comfort and quality, Villa Caunedo was selected as the main lodging for the director, the producer, and part of their closest team. Its four independent suites provided the necessary comfort to guarantee a stay of the highest quality, in an environment that blends tradition with modernity.
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The experience proved unforgettable. The crew itself praised the hospitality and tranquility of Somiedo, a place where every day of filming ended surrounded by nature and authenticity.
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The international impact of the saga ensures that Somiedo, and with it all of Asturias, consolidates itself as a new cinematic paradise and a benchmark destination for international tourism.
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In Somiedo, every corner is straight out of a movie, and at Villa Caunedo, you can live your own story.