Innovation meets tradition

The Paradores are a part of the Spanish story. Building on the country’s royal and ecclesiastical legacy, each hotel celebrates the spirit of the nation from within the walls of ruined castles, fortresses, monasteries and convents that have been skilfully transformed into monuments to Spanish hospitality. With nearly a century of tradition to guide them, the Paradores provide platforms for contemporary talent; innovation and tradition meet in the food crafted in their kitchens and in their embrace of sustainable practices. Perched in locations once fit for royalty, every Parador nestles you right in the juncture of Iberian history and natural wonder. As you peer out of your window, you won’t just enjoy a more authentic view of Spain – you’ll also feel a deeper connection to its true character.

The Paradores story

Heritage
Since 1928, Paradores has restored castles, palaces and convents, protecting Spain’s built and cultural history.

Historical conservation
All properties are refurbished with contemporary design that also respects the past.

Approach to sustainability
All 97 Paradores hotels are powered by renewable electricity and high-quality materials are used instead of disposable ones.

1.

PARADOR DE LEÓN

Castilla y León

A night spent inside the stunning former convent of San Marcos is perhaps the closest that a modern traveller can get to experiencing the Spanish Renaissance. Recently refurbished, the 51-room Parador brims with ornamental details on its columns, balustrades and skirting boards that attest to Spain’s royal and religious milestones. To further whet your appetite for architecture, visit the nearby Casa Botines, a residence-turned-museum designed by Gaudí that survives as a memorial to modernism.

2.

PARADOR CANGAS DE ONÍS

Asturias

If you’re craving a dose of forest therapy, the nature-rich principality of Asturias is your ideal destination. Built on the banks of the Sella river, this Parador was once the San Pedro de Villanueva Monastery, near the quaint valley village of Cangas de Onís in the 12th century. Constructed from stone and wood, the warm interiors offer the perfect refuge after a day of exploring hiking trails and marvelling at landscapes where mountains meet the sea.

3.

PARADOR DE AIGUABLAVA

Girona

An embrace of Catalonia’s modernist past flavours this Parador, which is perched on the cliff of La Punta d’es Muts along Catalonia’s beautiful Costa Brava. Its interiors are embellished with creature comforts, with furniture and fixtures that perfectly capture the region’s unique design sensibilities. Venture out into the surrounding pine forests to take a winding coastal walk. Breathe in the fresh ocean air as you visit the picturesque village of Begur, just 4km away.

4.

PARADOR DE RONDA

Andalucía

Once the town hall, Ronda’s Parador provides the most privileged vantage point to soak up the history of this part of southern Spain. The Parador is close to the Puente Nuevo bridge, which soars 98m above the Guadalevín river, and a short walk will take you to the Alameda del Tajo park. Many of the rooms have private terraces, allowing guests to take in the spectacular views in an intimate yet expansive setting. Stride beyond the historic streets and discover mountain walks that lead into the Sierra de Grazalema, Sierra de las Nieves and the natural park Los Alcornocales.

5.

PARADOR DE CUENCA

Castilla-La Mancha

Seemingly plucked from the pages of a fairy tale, Cuenca fuses medieval history with modern art. Here the Parador, a former monastery, sits atop a rocky turret of the Huécar gorge like a watchtower from which guests can survey the stunning panorama and iconic hanging houses. Take a wander across the bridge to find inspiration among the abstract creations inside the Fundación Antonio Pérez Museum or drive to the Enchanted City, a primordial seabed that is now a nature reserve.