Spain tourism: paradors

Have you ever stayed in a Parador on a visit to Spain? Maybe I
should begin by explaining what a Parador is ...

 

Paradors are luxury hotels which are mainly housed in ancient
buildings such as medieval castles, Arab fortresses, monasteries,
ancient manor houses and palaces. All of them have been refurbished
and operate to the highest modern standards. They are luxurious
places to stay combining outstanding architecture with fascinating
history, gourmet cuisine, ambience and impeccable service. They are
truly unique places to stay.

 

The idea of converting such historic buildings into state run
hotels dates back to 1926 when King Alfonso XIII gave his support
to the idea of rescuing and restoring landmark sites in Spain as
well as promoting tourism in lesser known parts of the country.

The first Parador opened in the Gredos mountains to the west of
Madrid in 1928. Today there are 91 paradors located al over Spain
of which roughly a third are historic buildings. The others are
tastefully designed lodgings constructed in styles befitting their
regions, often located in picturesque villages or idyllic coastal
spots.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Because there are now so many Paradors spread throughout Spain it
is possible to plan a whole holiday around them. Particular routes
that are recommended include the land of Don Quijote, a tour of
Andalucia's white villages, discovering the Pyrenees and a journey
along the pilgrim's trail of the Camino de Santiago. Such routes
are recommended on the official Parador website.

 

Because there are now so many Paradors spread throughout Spain it
is possible to plan a whole holiday around them. Particular routes
that are recommended include the land of Don Quijote, a tour of
Andalucia's white villages, discovering the Pyrenees and a journey
along the pilgrim's trail of the Camino de Santiago. Such routes
are recommended on the official Parador website.

  

 

Having travelled around Spain over many years I've been privileged
enough to see many of these fine buildings. Now my aim is to stay
in them all. Below are just a few that spring to mind as favourites
though there are many others I could add to the list. This just
gives you a taste of what the Paradors are about ...

 

This is a relatively modern building but the views across to Toledo
are so stunning that you must consider it if you're visiting the
city.

 

This is recognised as one of the finest of all the Paradors.
Historically it was home to the Order of Santiago (a group of
knights charged with protecting journeying pilgrims). The building
was expanded and converted into a monastery some 400 years later.

 

If you're driving down to Granada from Madrid you should seriously
consider a night here. It was originally built by the Moors in the 10th
century on a cliff high above town which you can spot from the main
road over to your right.

 

This place is stunning and is recognised as one of the finest
hotels in Europe. Originally it was a hospice for pilgrims who were
completing the Camino de Santiago. Standing right in the main
square next to the Cathedral bookings need to be made well in
advance.