Wonders from another world, 3/3

01.
PARADOR DE BAIONA
Galicia

When Christopher Columbus’s caravels returned from the Americas in 1493, one of this Parador’s stone watchtowers was the first to receive the news. A lovingly repurposed fortress, its most compelling stories are told today through culinary experiences at Enxebre A Pinta. The on-site Galician-styled tavern serves fresh seafood and hosts annual festivities, such as a popular medieval feast.

02.
PARADOR DE CRUZ DE TEJEDA
Canary Islands

Sat 1.5km above sea level in Gran Canaria, this Parador is built on the slope of a volcanic crater close to Tejeda, one of Spain’s most beautiful small towns. The pool is a venerated spot to watch the sunset, which unfolds like a wonder from another world. The interiors are decorated with more than 200 contemporary artworks by renowned national artists, as well as a 158-piece collection of popular Spanish ceramics.

03.
PARADOR DE MAZAGÓN
Andalucía

With its private beach and proximity to the pine forests and wetlands of Andalucía’s Doñana National Park, this Parador is a portal to the natural world. Featured in films such as Lawrence of Arabia, the unspoilt coastline can be explored aboard the Real Fernando ship from the nearby town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. The hotel is certified by the Fundación Starlight, making it popular with stargazers.

Wonders from another world, 1/3

01.
Parador De La Palma
Canary Islands

Set amid La Palma’s rich volcanic landscape, this Parador is an otherworldly escape. From the comfort of the hotel, marvel at a botanical garden filled with more than 70 subtropic species including dragon trees and tajinastes. The abundant natural beauty extends to the views from the restaurant that, on a clear day, include the nearby islands of Tenerife and La Gomera.

02.
Parador Costa Da Morte
Galicia

A haven of modernity by the wild Atlantic, this avant-garde 63-room hotel is a new addition to the 98-strong Paradores network. Seamlessly integrated into Lourido beach, cinematic windows make views of the ocean omnipresent. Paradores’ commitment to sustainability is seen here in Álvaro de la Vega’s Wave, a 75-piece installation made from recycled boat wood.

03.
Parador De Mérida
Extremadura

A historic and peaceful refuge built on the site of a Roman temple, this 300-year-old building is the perfect starting point for a journey back to the days of the Roman Empire. Courtyard columns display original inscriptions while the Garden of Antiquities is akin to an alfresco museum. The hotel restaurant also has Roman and Arabic influences. It sits at the heart of Mérida, a former Roman colony and designated Unesco World Heritage site complete with amphitheatre.

To find out more, visit parador.es