Spain
Spain’s ‘paradores’: the secret insider hotel network hiding in plain sight
An insider guide to Spain’s ‘paradores’ network
What if you could spend the night in a castle, a monastery or a cliffside mansion – without spending a fortune or elbowing through crowds? That’s the magic of Spain’s paradores. This state-run hotel network is one of the best-kept secrets in European travel. It offers unique stays in some of the country’s most historic and scenic spots, often at surprisingly reasonable prices. If you’re the kind of traveller who likes a bit of atmosphere with your accommodation, keep reading. In this article, we’ll answer the questions you might have about paradores – from their origins and booking tips to an in‑depth look at the must‑visit locations.
Top photography courtesy of Parador de Aiguablava
What exactly is a ‘parador’?
A parador (short for Parador de Turismo) is Spain’s version of a national treasure turned hotel. A parador is a state-run hotel, housed in repurposed historic buildings, ranging from centuries‑old castles and monasteries to palaces. Think of them as part hotel, part living museum. This unique model not only preserves monumental architecture but also breathes new life into local communities.
There are three categories into which paradores are split:
Esentia
Monumental/historic sites (castles, palaces, monasteries), e.g. Parador de Toledo and Parador de Ávila. These paradores feature historical elements like original chapels, cloisters, museum rooms and antique furnishings. You can find 4-star and 5-star Esentia paradores with services like on-site fine‑dining restaurants and full spa circuits (Turkish baths, hydro‑massage pools).
Civia
Urban boutique hotels in city centres, e.g. Parador de Salamanca and Parador de Alcalá de Henares. These paradores are typically rated 3-star or 4-star and here you’ll find amenities like 24‑hour concierge services, co‑working lounges and Tamizia trend‑driven restaurants.
Naturia
Properties in nature or coastal settings, e.g. Parador de Aiguablava and Parador de Cazorla. These paradores focus more on the setting and eco-friendly offerings than historical significance. These paradores range from 3-star establishments to 5-star establishments. Here you will find nature-inspired offerings like guided hikes, kayaking, garden picnic areas and outdoor pools with scenic views. The amenities are also more eco-friendly with farm‑to‑table restaurants and EV chargers for 100% renewable electricity.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Granada and Parador de Molina de Aragón
How did the ‘paradores’ network come to be?
The concept dates back to 1928 when King Alfonso XIII commissioned the first parador in the Sierra de Gredos as a way to promote tourism in lesser-known areas of Spain while preserving historic architecture. Between 1931 and 1934, the government built 12 Albergues de Carretera (roadside inns with gas pumps and repair shops), many of which later became paradores. Some properties served as hospitals or suffered damage during the war from 1936 to 1939 – post‑war restoration paved the way for the 1960s boom from 40 to 83 paradores. Since 1991 the chain has operated as a state‑owned corporation focused on sustainable tourism and heritage conservation under Turespaña’s oversight.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Cardona
Why have I never heard of them?
You’re not alone. Despite being one of Spain’s greatest travel assets, paradores aren’t heavily marketed outside the country. They’ve traditionally catered to Spanish travellers and European guests who are in the know. That’s what makes them feel like an insider’s secret – they’re often located right next to top-tier landmarks, yet fly under the radar of most tourists. They’re also state-run – so they don’t rely on flashy international marketing campaigns – which is part of the appeal. Many paradores are only bookable via Parador.es or select agencies – some don’t appear on major OTAs, keeping them off mainstream radars.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Aiguablava and Parador de Cuenca
What makes a stay at a ‘parador’ unique compared to other hotels?
The magic of a parador lies in the combination of authenticity, atmosphere and access. You’re staying in a historic site, not just viewing it from afar. Picture vaulted stone ceilings, antique tapestries, cloistered courtyards and sweeping balconies. But don’t let the heritage fool you – these places are fitted with stylish interiors and boutique-level service, with modern amenities like spas, pools and fine dining. And the locations? Unreal. Some are located on cliffs with sea views, others overlook cathedrals, national parks or ancient city walls. Plus, since they’re government-supported, the prices are often better than you’d expect for this level of experience.
You can also join the free Friends of Paradores loyalty club to earn 1 point per €3 spent (lodging/meals) or 1 point per €12 on extras. Points can be redeemed for free nights any time of year – and as a member, you can enjoy welcome drinks, breakfast discounts and spa‑circuit perks.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Molina de Aragón
How many ‘paradores’ are there and where are they?
There are 98 paradores across Spain, spread through all 17 autonomous communities. The most notable regions to find paradores are Andalusia, where you can find 16 paradores, including those in Granada and Córdoba and in Galicia you will find 13 paradores, with locations in Santiago de Compostela and Baiona.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Cuenca and Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Is there a ‘parador’ trail I can follow?
Yes – and it’s one of the best ways to explore Spain’s diversity. Paradores were designed to encourage travel to lesser-known areas and the paradores network is ideal for a self-guided road trip.
Some of the recommended routes include:
The Green Spain Trail
This trail is from Galicia to the Basque Country, offering lush coastlines, hidden monasteries and seafood feasts. The trail stretches over 600 kilometres and it’s recommended to set aside 7 to 10 days to complete this trail. Highlights for this trail include pilgrim‑style cuisine at Santiago, cider tasting at Parador Gijón and coastal hikes and whale‑watching near Ribadeo.
The Castilian Route
This route includes Toledo, Sigüenza and Ávila, where you’ll find mediaeval cities, Romanesque castles and golden plains. This route is 350 kilometres long and will require 4 to 6 days to fully enjoy the region. Some great experiences along this route include a mediaeval banquet at Sigüenza’s castle‑restaurant, olive oil tasting at Úbeda’s Interpretation Centre and sunset views from Ávila’s city walls.
The Andalusian Circuit
This route includes Granada, Córdoba and Carmona, here you can expect Moorish palaces, flamenco vibes and sunny terraces. This circuit spans 450 kilometres and will take about 6 days to complete. Some must-do activities in this region include the Hammam spa package at Parador de Córdoba, a private Mezquita tour, Moorish‑inspired dining in Granada and exploring the white‑washed terraces in Ronda.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Aiguablava
Which are the most spectacular ‘paradores’ to visit?
Here are a few jaw-dropping favourites to add to your list:
Parador de Granada
Located inside the Alhambra complex in Granada, Parador de Granada was originally constructed between 1332 and 1354 as part of a Nasrid palace, this building was later transformed into a Franciscan convent by the Catholic Monarchs. It served as the initial burial site for Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand before their remains were moved to the Royal Chapel of Granada. Here you can enjoy luxury rooms that overlook the Moorish Generalife gardens, dine in a restaurant that offers Nasrid-inspired cuisine and explore the original architectural elements preserved within the property.
Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Parador de Santiago de Compostela, also known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, is situated in the Plaza del Obradoiro adjacent to the renowned Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. This establishment is one of the oldest continuously operating hotels globally. Established in 1499 by the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, the building was originally designed as a royal hospital to provide care and shelter to pilgrims completing the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. The structure showcases Gothic and Renaissance styles, featuring two impressive cloisters and a façade adorned with intricate Plateresque details.
Parador de Molina de Aragón
Parador de Molina de Aragón is the newest addition to Spain’s paradores network. Located in the upper part of Molina de Aragónin in the province of Guadalajara, Parador de Molina de Aragón offers panoramic views of the historic Molina Castle, dating from the 10th to 12th centuries. The development of this parador is a significant milestone in the region’s recovery efforts following the devastating wildfire of 2005, which burnt 13,000 hectares.
Parador de Cuenca
Set atop a cliff overlooking the Huécar River, Parador de Cuenca is housed in the former Convent of San Pablo, dating back to the 16th century. The views here are unreal. The interior features Gothic and Renaissance styles with modern furnishings, while recent renovations were done to enhance the historic façade and atrium. Situated near the iconic Hanging Houses of Cuenca, this parador offers you easy access to the city’s historic sites.
Parador de Cardona
Set in an 8th-century fortress in Catalonia, complete with dungeons and Romanesque details, this is a parador full of drama. The fortress in which Parador de Cardona is housed was established in 886 by Wilfred the Hairy, making it one of the oldest castles in Spain. The castle showcases Romanesque and Gothic elements such as the 11th-century Torre de la Minyona (Maiden’s Tower), standing 15 metres tall and 10 metres in diameter. Parador de Cardona is steeped in local legends, including tales of a tragic love affair between the viscount’s daughter and a Moorish prince, which is said to have led to the young woman’s confinement in the tower, where she ultimately died. Some believe her spirit still haunts the premises.
Parador de Aiguablava
For something coastal and contemporary, Parador de Aiguablava sits on a cliff above the turquoise coves of the Costa Brava. Originally a 1930s villa, it was transformed into a hotel in the 1960s and later fully renovated into the luxurious beauty it is today. With its modern design, sea-view rooms and a focus on Mediterranean cuisine, it’s a refreshing change of pace from the more historic paradores.
Photography courtesy of Parador de Cardona and Parador de Santiago de Compostela
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