The first luxury Parador hotel was built in 1926 and created by King Alfonso X111 in a bid to use quality tourism as a guardian of the national and artistic heritage of Spain and to assist regions that had fewer economic resources.

There are around 90 Paradors scattered all over Spain and can be found in the most privileged locations such as Castles, Palaces, Fortresses, Convents, Monasteries and other historic buildings. There are also a few modern Paradors , built in traditional style, in areas of outstanding and captivating beauty.

The Paradors are one of the few pluses to have come out of the Franco era and although the term luxury is often used when referring to Parador chain of hotels and the ideology behind them was to offer very comfortable accommodation at a relatively attractive price, prices vary from round 95 to 138 Euros for a Standard double room per night, which by international standards is very reasonable indeed.

These luxury and historic hotels can be found from Galicia in the North West through Catalonia to Andalusia in the south of Spain, the Canary Islands and in the Spanish cities in North Africa. They have a commitment to environmental protection with their many restoration projects, helping maintain both the natural and cultural heritage of Spain. Most of Spain's national parks either have a Parador inside or close by and include the beautiful nature reserve of Doñana in Huelva, the Picos de Europa National Parks, Cazorla Nature Preserve, Parque National del Teide on the Canarie Islands and the beautiful Sierra de Grazalema in the heart of Andalucia

Due to the absolute privileged location of each Parador they really are unique places to stay and if your driving or plan to visit the whole of Spain you will never be more than a few hours drive from each one.

Each Spanish Parador restaurant offers a menu based on the traditional dishes of the region where they are situated, accompanied by some excellent local wines. Some of Spain's finest chefs oversee the cuisine and a table d'hote menu is always available at a very affordable price.

One of my favourite Paradors is the one located in the gardens of the Alhambra Palace in Granada . A former convent built on the orders of the Catholic Monarchs, this monumental complex offers guests gentle strolls around the city, whilst the building itself invites them to discover a fantasy interior mixing Moorish and Christian features. Some of the rooms have exceptional views over the Generalife, the Secano gardens and the Albaicine, whilst the classical furnishings and many portraits mark the decor of interior spaces. Andalusian gazpacho, Sacromonte omelette and Santa Fe pionono cake are on offer under the coffered ceiling of the dining room or the fresh summer terrace.

Parador de Granada This location has to be one of the most special in Spain to spend a night or two. The site of the world-famous Alhambra, among gardens and fountains which recall a past where the Arabian merged with the Christian. It was once a convent built on the orders of the Catholic Monarchs on top of a Nazrid palace, of which important remains are still conserved, such as the Nazrid Hall. This historic complex offers visitors the opportunity to take intimate and peaceful walks around the grounds - especially appealing when all the tourists have left for the day. In the building there are numerous works of art and exceptional pieces of furniture decorating the Cloister and the interior rooms. In the dining room or in the coolness of the summer terrace, with exceptional views of the Generalife, Andalusian gazpacho, Granada-style beans and Santa Fé pastries are served. Please note that this Parador only has three types of rooms (with two beds), basic rooms, double standard rooms and double standard rooms with living room. There are no rooms with one bed only. Torre del Alba (304) is a unique room in an exceptional location. Book Now to stay at one of Spain`s most beautiful Paradors.

Parador de Malaga Golf The sea, the enormous hedges of flowers, golf and sunshine enhance the appeal of this Costa del Sol property. If golf is your passion, this is the Parador for you, with its own eighteen-hole course, 3 putting greens, 2 approach greens, club, trolley and buggy hire and only about 5 minutes from the centre of Malaga. This was the first golf course in Spain. There are eighty eight ensuite guestrooms here, some with a double bed, some with twin beds and three suites. The rooms are spacious and bright most with sea views. The swimming pools and tennis court complete this pretty setting. Among the most popular dishes of the restaurant are 'sopa de rape malagueña' (anglerfish soup Malaga style), 'borrachuelos' and the 'pescaítos fritos' (small fried fish), the maximum expression of Andalusia Book Now

Parador de Toledo Located on the Cerro del Emperador by the river Tagus, this Parador offers an incomparable panoramic view of the historic profile of Toledo, with its cathedral, the Alcázar (fortress) and the synagogues. The Parador also has an outdoor pool available to guests in the summer months. From the bedrooms, living rooms, terrace and swimming pool can be seen beautiful views of the Imperial City, while the interior is spacious and interesting. Comfortable furniture, large wood beams, majestic staircases and banisters and Mudejar elements on rugs and tiling are throughout. Typical dishes from Castilla-La Mancha are offered in the restaurant, such as stewed partridge, roast lamb, cheese and honey ice cream, and famous marzipans. Book Now