Paradores Monocle
WONDERS from ANOTHER WORLD
Spain’s Paradores are a semblance of past, present, and future. The eclectic network of 97 hotels includes beautifully restored palaces and monuments as well as modern edifice adapted to the demands of today. Each Parador offers a unique vantage point; from a nature preserve in Valencia to an immersive cultural stay in Segovia or a paragon of coastal sustainability in Cádiz. Fast becoming a climate-neutral company that is embracing renewable energy and phasing out single-use plastics, Spain’s Paradores has a unique mission to preserve wonders from another era, with a constant consideration for the here and now.
01
PARADOR DE LA GRANJA
Fit for a king
On the edge of the Sierra de Guadarrama in Castilla y León, the Palacio Real de La Granja de San Ildefonso is a bastion of baroque splendour. King Philip V ordered its construction in 1717, taking inspiration from Versailles, the royal court of his French grandfather, Louis XIV. History intertwines with classical mythology in the gardens’ 26 spectacular fountains as well as the museum, which features wall hangings from the Royal Tapestry factory.
Dating from a similar period, Parador de La Granja is an extension of this palace of opulence and wonder. A 21st-century renovation upgraded the Puerta de la Reina restaurant, wellness spa and convention centre. Enlivened by fresh mountain air and proximity to the picturesque city of Segovia, this is a regal retreat that inspires awe at every turn.
02
PARADOR DE EL SALER
A taste of the good life
Girded by pine trees, sand dunes and the sea, this Parador is a journey into the heartland of Valencian gastronomy and enviable quality of life.
Perched on the edge of the L’Albufera rice fields, the Parador de El Saler’s restaurant is headed by chef José Alcarazo who explores the region’s historical ties to Levantine cuisine. A second, more laid-back establishment, La Barraca del Mediterráneo, offers tapas-style fare.
Boasting one of continental Europe’s best golf courses alongside a well-equipped gym, football pitch and seasonal swimming pool, Parador de El Saler lays the groundwork for those seeking an active escape.
A daily commitment to sustainability comes alive through initiatives such as a sea turtle protection camp, dune regeneration programme and an award-winning project that converts plastic detritus sourced from the sea into an eclectic furniture collection.
As a modern Mediterranean preserve, this Parador’s vision for the future is grounded by the consciousness of present action.
03
PARADOR DE CÁDIZ
Window on the world
The omnipresence of the Atlantic shapes every stay at the Parador de Cádiz. Rising on the former site of the emblematic Atlantic Hotel on the shores of Andalucia’s Caleta Beach, this 100-per-cent sustainable hotel is a modern wonder.
The avant-garde architecture takes full advantage of the sea views, from the infinity-styled pool in the spa and wellness space, to the expansive windows in the 124 rooms and sunsets enjoyed from the main restaurant and more informal La Tacita del Atlántico.
Cádiz was one of Spain’s historic launch pads into the “New World” and the coastal city’s historic architecture, food culture and resilient spirit combines grandeur with a grounded, undeviating sense of welcome.
A collaboration with Ars Fundum adds a curation of contemporary sculptures and artworks to the milieu, while custom facilities make this Parador a favourite for cyclists wanting to explore the south of Spain at their own pace. This coastal idyll is inspired by nature, culture and an innovative vision of leisure.
