Storied stays
The Paradores network of 99 hotels in Spain provides inspiring opportunities for true disconnection. They include reimagined relics of the country’s storied past, as well as several iconic modern buildings. Design touches assure comfort while forward-facing practices make every destination a force for regional regeneration. Guests are placed at the heart of charming regions with each Parador acting as a gateway to local history, hospitality and nature.
Castilla-La Mancha
Parador de Toledo
The “city of the three cultures”, Toledo was Spain’s capital until 1561 and its historic city centre is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hillside Parador de Toledo is a Castilian-style house with a panoramic terrace, ideal for admiring the ancient city below. While in Toledo, don’t miss the famous stone Alcázar and the art- filled Santo Tomé church.
Andalusia
Parador de Ayamonte
Near to Spain’s southwest coast, Parador de Ayamonte stands on the ruins of a Roman castle. The landscape is punctuated with gorgeous whitewashed villages, shrines and mudéjar-style churches. The 8km-long beach is popular with swimmers and windsurfers. Enjoy day trips to the Doñana National Park or nearby towns like Huelva, but be back at the Parador for dinner to catch the sun setting over the Guadiana river.
Basque Country
Parador de Hondarribia
On the border with France, Parador de Hondarribia was built in the 10th century as a castle and military outpost. It has hosted Spanish monarchs, including Carlos I, Felipe IV and Felipe V, and artists such as Diego Velázquez. The artistry continues inside with tapestries designed by Peter Paul Rubens that tell the story of Achilles. Hondarribia is a town ripe for discovery, with a maritime flavour to the food.
Find out more at paradores.es
