Spain’s luxury paradores hotels are dispersed across the country, from Northern Spain and the Basque Country to Andalusia, the Costa del Sol and Catalonia. Paradores hotels are classified into three main groups, namely ‘esentia’ or historic hotels, ‘civia’ or urban hotels and ‘naturia’ or hotels close to the coast or nature. Though the history of some paradores dates back to the 8th century, they boast modern amenities, high quality technology and excellent service and are all under the care of the Spanish government.
A mere 15 minutes from Madrid, the Parador de Alcalá de Henares is a cosmopolitan parador housed in a convent dating back to the 17th century. Spa treatments, sauna and a large swimming pool await when you return from exploring the city. Further north in Asturias, the Parador de Gijón is located on the city border of Gijón.
The Parador de Artíes is nestled in the Aran Valley at the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees. Surrounded by luscious greenery in the summer months and snow-capped mountains in winter, this parador with its romantic architectural style is a nature lover’s paradise. Way down south on Gran Canaria, the Parador de Cruz de Tejeda is surrounded by an impressive mountainous panorama at 1560 meters above sea level. Located right on the east coast of La Gomera, the parador de la Gomera boasts panoramic views over the Atalantic and the island of Tenerife.