Spain’s Paradores are part of a famous chain of state-run luxury hotels.
Launched by King Alfonso XIII in 1927, the first Parador opened in Gredos in Avila. The King’s aim was to boost tourism to the country and the project has proved to be pretty profitable since.
There are 94 Paradores throughout Spain and the Canary Islands.
Where are Spain’s Paradores?
Spain’s Paradores are mostly housed in historical or architecturally important buildings. The oldest building being in Santiago de Compostela.
The two Spanish autonomous regions on the African peninsula, Ceuta and Melilla, both have Paradores as do the Canary Islands. In fact every autonomous region in Spain boasts one of these magnificent hotels, the exception being the Balearic islands.
Castles and contemporary buildings
While most of Spain’s Paradores are based in historical buildings, some are more modern in style.
The contemporary building, somewhat ahead of its time at the time of its construction in 1966, the Mojacar Parador in Almeria is one of the more modern-style Paradores.
Similarly the Parador de Antequera in Malaga is a low-level resort-like complex with vast windows and minimalist decor.
On the opposite end of the scale, the magnificent Jarandilla de la Vera Parador in Cáceres is located in a centuries-old palace or castle which once hosted Emperor Charles V.
Likewise, the Paradore de Cardona, near Barcelona is located in a medieval castle on a ninth century fortified site.
Mixing old and new, the Parador de Lorca is a modernist building built within the castle walls, high on the hill over this bustling Murcian town.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the castle – it’s right on your doorstep!
Spain’s Paradores with the best views
To choose Spain’s Paradores with the best views is a tricky task. Each of them, whether modern or historical was created with views in mind.
As a lover of the ocean, I particularly love the Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro, it boasts spectacular views of the bay and the city, perched high above this important Andalucian port.
The Parador de Jaen dominates the skyline as you approach the town and the views across the Sierra Cazorla mountains and valleys are simply stunning.
For location and proximity to history, the Parador de Granada sits in the grounds of the famous Alhambra Palace, alongside the spectacular Generalife Gardens.
The Parador de Ronda sits by the Puente Nuevo, on the edge of the 120-metre-deep ravine. The building used to be the town hall.
Restaurants of Spain’s Paradores
The restaurants of Spain’s Paradores are top quality, many visitors travel miles just to eat in the restaurants.
In the northern part of Spain, in Galicia, the Paradores restaurants are called Enxebres, a kind of tapas bar, where you can enjoy bite-sized tasters of typical Galician Cuisine.
In Catalonia, the Paradores restaurants feature food of the mountains, such as wild boar and hearty stews, alongside coastal dishes of seafood and freshly sourced fish.
Typical dishes in the Paradores of Andalucia include, Salmorejo, a Cordobés dish of cold thick tomato soup, or rabo de torro, a rich oxtail dish.
It’s hard to choose the tastiest dish of Spain’s Pardores. Depending on the weather or season, you may enjoy typical peasant stews with lentils and chickpeas soaked for hours in rich sauces or a slow-cooked roast suckling pig. Rice dishes are always a popular choice, be it the paprika spiced Arroz Zamorana at the Parador de Zamora or a typical Valencian paella at the Parador de Javea.
Seasonal foods are served throughout the year, one of the most popular being the cheese season in September.
Wine or Cava connoisseurs can always expect a real treat, with numerous local and regional wines to choose from in all of the Paradores.
Paradores facilities
As well as luxurious accommodation, top class restaurants and amazing locations. Spain’s Paradores also offer numerous facilities.
Business facilities are excellent, if you are planning an event for your business, the Paradores have meeting rooms with a great range of technology.
A Parador wedding is extra special, imagine the photos taken in the amazing grounds with always a spectacular backdrop.
Many of the Paradores have spa facilities, bookable in advance or during your stay.
Some Paradores have a golf course connected or located nearby.
One Parador is never enough
If you are spending a few days or more in Spain, why not try more than one of Spain’s Paradores. You can combine any number or Paradores in one trip, if booked as a package via the Paradores website, you can obtain a special rate or book an experience such as wine tasting.
Which is your favourite Parador?
Although I have yet to visit them all, my favourite is the Parador de Lorca, just an hours drive from my home, it is a great place to escape for the weekend, enjoy the fabulous spa, eat delicious food and while away some hours exploring the castle.
I should also give a shout out to the Parador de Mojacar, a five-minute drive from my house and located almost opposite my office. I have never stayed there but I have enjoyed meals and drinks overlooking the pool and the mediterranean and participated in numerous events at the excellent conference centre.
Enjoyed reading this, interesting and informative!