The paradors of Spain

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25 FEBRUARY 2004
Spain's legendary paradors offer the sort of accommodation usually reserved for those in the limelight, which makes them a perfect option for that most special of vacations - your honeymoon. This network of tastefully converted monasteries, fortresses and stately homes comprise some of the country's most spectacular accommodation in some of its most spectacular locations.

Stay in Spain’s paradors and you’ll stay in some of the world’s most beautiful properties. Founded by the Spanish government in 1928, this astounding collection of hotels aims to preserve historic buildings such as monasteries, castles and mansions, and to open up underprivileged but stunning areas of the country. There are now more than 80 to choose from, largely four or five-star establishments, some modern and many of them national monuments. You’ll also enjoy a true taste of Spain as most paradors serve regional specialities. Try these unique places to stay and you could become a convert for life…

Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia
This parador is a tourist attraction in its own right. Arguably the oldest hotel in the world, it is certainly one of the most distinguished. You'll need to book well in advance as it’s difficult to get into. Originally founded in 1499 by monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella as a hospital to care for weary or sick pilgrims visiting the shrine of St James (or Santiago in Spanish), the Hostal commands the north side of the great Plaza Obradoiro in the centre of Santiago. It was converted into a magnificent parador in 1954, with its old cloisters and Gothic patios still intact. The hotel still feeds ten pilgrims each day, free of charge - in its kitchens, rather than in the splendid vaulted dining room. For a Galician speciality, try pimientos de Padrón, tiny green peppers fried in olive oil and sea salt – be careful, some can be hot. And do have a drink in the crypt bar; which once housed the deceased but now serves a much more hospitable purpose. Finally, keep a plan of the Hostal on hand – or you could wander for hours in its corridors, grand staircases and courtyards.

Parador San Francisco, Granada, Andalusia
If you’re lucky enough to get a room in Granada’s parador, a former convent, you’ll find yourself within the precincts of that most exquisite of Moorish palaces, the Alhambra. The interior is furnished and decorated with antiques and local crafts, while outside there’s an elegant patio and mosaic-cobbled courtyard with a fountain playing in the centre. External shady gardens surround the parador, and its broad terrace looks across to the gypsy quarter of Sacromonte and the old Moorish area of Albayzín. Just outside the gate the Alhambra and the spectacular Generalife – where lush gardens and artful water features combine in a breathtaking setting high above the town – are literally on your doorstep. Don’t wander too far away – let the beauty and tranquillity seep into your soul. This is one of the world’s magical places.

Parador de Carmona, Carmona, Andalusia
You’ll be staying in regal style if you check into this parador set within the remains of a 14th-century Moorish fortress. It combines a medieval atmosphere with modern comforts including a magnificent blue-tiled swimming pool on the hillside below. Carmona is an excellent base from which to explore the “white villages” of Andalusia and can be teamed with Ronda and Granada on a self-drive tour.