Spain’s Paradores de Turismo is a group of hotels with almost a century’s worth of hospitality expertise. Founded in 1928, it now encompasses 98 unique establishments across the country’s most stunning natural landscapes and historic cities. The hotels are located on sites that range from ancient castles and convents to spectacular contemporary buildings. All share a commitment to providing experiences that celebrate the particular regional gastronomy, culture and tradition of their area. Every hotel also has on display a selection of Paradores’ world-class art collection, which features more than 9,000 works stretching from 2,000-year-old Roman artefacts to the modern era and encompassing the likes of Picasso, Tàpies, Miró and Dalí.

1.

eco focus

Behind the greens

Sustainability is at the core of Paradores’ operations. It has instated environmentally conscious practices across its hotels; single-use plastics have been eliminated from all rooms, for example, and every hotel now runs entirely on electricity from renewable sources.

2.

Culinary excellence

What’s cooking?

Each of Paradores’ hotels prides itself on serving food that pays homage to the cuisine of its region. Produce is all locally sourced and, in a bid to combat food waste, guests are able to take unfinished meals away in biodegradable containers.

3.

art collection

Gallery counting

Paradores’ extensive art collection boasts more than 9,000 works, which are displayed in its hotels for guests to enjoy. This world-class array stretches from 2,000-year-old Roman artefacts to the modern era and encompasses the likes of Picasso, Tàpies, Miró and Dalí.

4.

historical heritage

Great restoration

Protecting the unique architectural heritage of each of its locations is essential to Paradores. Its conservation efforts have allowed it to restore and maintain everything from medieval castles to ancient convents, all preserved with the utmost care and respect.

Clean breaks, in all senses

Environmentally conscious
Sustainability is central to the way Paradores operates. The company works with 50 conservationist NGOs to maintain the natural landscapes in which its hotels are located and each Parador runs entirely on electricity from renewable sources. You won’t find any single-use plastics in its rooms either.

Secure coronavirus protocols
Rooms are cleaned and disinfected more thoroughly than ever using virucidal products, guests are encouraged to check in online to reduce time in waiting areas and tables are spaced further apart in hotel restaurants.

Where to stay

1.

Parador de JaÉn

View finder

Sitting on a hill high above the Andalusian city of Jaén is the Castillo de Santa Catalina, a 13th-century fortress turned hotel. Inside, the Parador de Jaén boasts elegant interiors by Cidon Studio from which to take in the incredible panoramic views.

2.

Parador Costa da Morte

Shore thing

On a bay overlooking the white sands of Praia de Lourido is the Parador da Costa Morte. Opened in 2020, it’s the perfect point from which to explore the wild Galician coast and Cape Finisterre Lighthouse, which the Romans called “the end of the world”.

3.

Parador de León

Art warming

One of the most important monuments of the Spanish renaissance, this historic convent-turned-hotel houses some 500 artworks and was recently reopened following renovations.

4.

Parador de Aiguablava

Peak preview

The dramatic cliff-top location of this hotel allows for unparalleled views over the Mediterranean’s Costa Brava. It has just reopened following an ambitious renovation project and now features a panoramic spa with a pool, gym and terraces overlooking the Punta des Muts cove. For those looking for adventure, the unspoilt natural beauty of the surrounding area offers opportunities for boating, bicycle tours and horse riding.