Paradores of Spain… No matter the nature of your trip, whether it is to sulk in the culture, have an adventure, explore the wonderful National Parks that Spain has to offer, its gastronomy or best of all, relaxation, you will be able to discover Spain through its Paradores hotels.

Paradores are a series of unique accommodations, 93 to be exact, spread throughout Spain operated by the government. For the most part Spain Paradores are castles, monasteries, palaces, convents and other interesting buildings that have been converted into hotels. These are authentic monuments equipped with all modern comforts but still manage to maintain their traditional style. When possible I would highly suggest you find a way to stay in a couple of them as you are sure to have an experience you will never forget…

In my travels through Spain I have stayed in several Paradores, one of the ones I remember most fondly is El Parador de Los Reyes Católicos in Santiago de Compostela, a royal hospital from the 15th century. I was lucky enough to stay in a suite with views of the Plaza del Obradorio and the impressive Cathedral located a stone from the Parador. The location of this Parador has a special meaning for many since it is the last stop of the pilgrimage of El Camino de Santiago or known in English as the Camino de Santiago, one of the most important Christian pilgrimages since medieval times and in existence. for more than 1000 years.

If you are looking for culture and history, you can start your trip by heading to Segovia to visit its incredible Roman aqueduct and stay at the Parador de Segovia, where the rooms are spacious and the views magnificent. Continue to Ávila and stay at the Parador de Ávila, a 16th-century palace where you’ll feel like royalty in this city surrounded by an impressive defensive wall. Move to Salamanca, visit its spectacular Cathedral and stay at the Parador de Salamanca or go to Cuenca, another magical city where you can visit the Hanging Houses and stay at the Parador de Cuenca, a 16th century convent. You should also consider the Parador de Cáceres where you will stay in one of the more than ten slender towers that preside over the town or travel to the splendor of ancient Rome by visiting the city of Mérida and staying at the Parador de Mérida, an 18th century convent with old chapel and beautiful gardens. These are just some of my suggestions, remember that the possibilities are endless and I guarantee that the experience will be unforgettable.

If it’s an adrenaline rush you’re looking for, the Paradores could be the perfect base for any of your exciting adventures. The Parador de Cazorla is close to the Cazorla National Park and its active tourism programmes. If you want to go kayaking or whitewater rafting you should consider the Paradores in Cangas de Onis, Tui or Ronda. If you like bird watching, the Monfrage National Park is for you and you can stay at the nearby Parador de Trujillo. Let your imagination run wild, why not take a hot air balloon ride at the Parador de Vic-Sau or go scuba diving in El Hierro? If you are looking for even more adventure, why not go caving next to the Fuente De Parador in the heart of the Picos de Europa mountains? Let your imagination be your guide.

When you book a night in Spain Paradores your breakfast is usually included as a buffet with all kinds of dairy products, cereals, seasonal fruits and pastries. Paradores has extraordinary restaurants where you can taste the delicacies of the area you are visiting. On one of my last trips to Spain while traveling through Extremadura we stopped for Migas Manchegas, a delicious traditional Spanish dish made with leftover bread, at the Parador de Trujillo and they were absolutely amazing!

Some of the Paradores in Spain, particularly the most popular ones, such as the Parador de Granada located in the Alhambra in Granada, tend to book up well in advance. If you have your heart set on a specific Parador, book it in advance or you may have to make other arrangements. I cannot stress enough if you get the chance and the time you stay at the Paradores in Spain will be an experience like no other.