Paradores
The basic philosophy of the Paradores was and continues to be one of offering good regional accommodation in areas where there was none previously, combined with the concept of utilising where possible, ancient buildings, old palaces, castles and monasteries, many of which were abandoned and in disrepair. The word Parador, meaning, ‘inn or lodgings’, is synonymous today with one of the most successful concepts in cultural and historical tourism in the world and this unique network of heritage buildings is available for the sheer pleasure of the traveller. There are around 95 Paradores throughout Spain, many dating from the upper Middle Ages and others built more recently along modern architectural lines. Ibertours is an Official Representative for the Paradores of Spain.
Below is a selection of some of these exceptional properties…
Parador de Hondarribia
Founded by the Navarrese king Sancho Abarca in the 10th c., this Parador rises up in a beautiful castle which maintains the structure of a medieval fortress in a monumental, coastal setting. Its defensive appearance, with thick walls, conceals an interior recovered with mastery. The immense, naked stone of the courtyard stands out, as do the beautiful views of the French coast and the sea, which the guest can contemplate from the splendid terrace or from some bedrooms. Lances, cannons and armour make up the interior decoration, offering an air of elegance in a most comfortable atmosphere. Limited private parking spaces (cannot be pre-reserved). Has parking.
Parador de Jaen
The privileged location of the Parador on Santa Catalina Hill offers it the character of defensive bastion of the Jaén horizon. Origin and destination to discover the charm of the Andalusian Renaissance, the hotel has a refreshing swimming pool which, along with the exterior stone, offers protection from the burning sun which inundates the surroundings. The monumental appearance is maintained on the inside, where the impressive 20 m. high crossed arches of the main living room, the dining room, with a marked Arabic character, and the comfortable and friendly bedrooms with magnificent panoramic views stand out. Has Parking.
Parador de la Granja
The new Parador of La Granja is a living example of the rich architectural legacy of the Royal site. There are two buildings on the same site. The first, where the hotel accommodation is situated, is the Casa de los Infantes (Princes House), constructed in the 18th century by Carlos III for the princes Gabriel and Antonio. The second is the Cuartel General de la Guardia de Corps (formerly the Royal Bodyguard barracks), which houses a modern conference centre only 55 minutes from Madrid. The Parador is located in an area of outstanding monumental and natural interest, only 11 Km from Segovia, a world heritage site in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama.
Parador de Leon "Hostal San Marcos"
Construction began around 1515 on this monumental building, which features a Spanish Plateresque façade. The building's historical past is found in the Cloister, Church, Choir and Chapterhouse, and the present in the careful renovation-work, combined with an interior filled with works of art and rooms which gave shelter to pilgrims in olden times. A night's stay here is truly a luxury, offering: suites with views of the cloister, stately rooms, and a lovely restaurant. Has parking.
Parador de Merida
The Parador conserves the structure of the former 18th c. convent, installed on the remains of a temple dedicated to the Concordia de Augusto, and offers the guest the opportunity to experience the rich heritage of the beautiful town of Mérida and surrounding natural areas. Some of the most noteworthy spaces are the living room, the inner patio and the beautiful gardens where the 'Jardín de Antiguedades' (Garden of Antiquities) is located. The garden is an archeological ensemble made up of Roman, Mudejar and Visigothic elements. Parking.
Parador de Ronda
In the centre of the city, in a privileged location, next to the emblematic Puente Nuevo in Ronda, built in the year 1761, this Parador rises up over the former town hall. It is an impressive enclave, with unique views of the Tagus, in a gorge some 120 metres deep. Blues, greens, yellows and reds make up the shades of the interior. The most colourful materials decorate the sofas and curtains of bright, spacious living rooms with an abundance of plants. It has a swimming pool and cheerful bedrooms with beautiful views and comfortable split-level suites with terraces. Has parking.
Parador de Santiago "Hostal dos Reis Catolicos"
The Parador Dos Reis Catolicos Hotel is situated in the heart of the city. Considered to be the oldest hotel in the world, it is also one of the most luxurious and beautiful.A mixture of history, art and tradition, the dream of pilgrims and an emblem of Santiago, the 'Hostal Reyes Católicos', located in the Plaza do Obradoiro, forms a magnificent golden corner with the cathedral. The 'Hostal' originated as a Royal Hospital in 1499 to give shelter to the numerous travellers making their way to Santiago. It has four cloisters of immense beauty, elegant living rooms, spectacular bedrooms and a luxurious dining room. Has parking.
Parador de Santillana Gil Blas
The Parador is installed in the beautiful Barreda-Bracho ancestral home, in the Santillana del Mar plaza, a town declared a National Monument, whose origins date back to the 8th century. The main entrance precedes diaphanous, friendly rooms, with wooden floors and traditional decoration for the furniture and the ornamental details. Has parking.
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
The Parador occupies a 12th c. former hospital, next to the cathedral and built by Saint Dominic to give shelter to the pilgrims on the Road to Santiago. In a regal and elegant style, it has majestic living rooms and a lobby with Gothic arches and wooden coffered ceilings. Noble materials and bright colours - blues and whites - lead to comfortable bedrooms, decorated with exquisite taste; some have four poster beds. Has Parking.
Parador de Toledo
Located on the Cerro del Emperador by a meander of the river Tagus, this Parador offers an incomparable panoramic view of the monumental profile of Toledo. The Parador also offers the possibility to enjoy its refreshing swimming pool and to plan outdoor activities. From the bedrooms, living rooms, terrace and swimming pool can be seen beautiful views of the Imperial City, while the interior stands out for its spaciousness and luxurious facilities. Comfortable furniture is included with wooden beams, staircases and banisters and Mudejar elements on rugs and tiling. Has parking.