The Paradores of Spain originated in the 1920s at the behest of the then King of Spain, Alphonso XIII. The strategy in creating a chain of quality tourism accommodation was aimed specifically at maintaining the national, artistic and cultural heritage of Spain, whilst at the same time keeping those regions with fewer economic resources buoyant. Judging by the popularity of the paradores, it is a strategy that has proven to be successful.

Situated at reasonable distances from each other throughout the regions of Spain, from Galicia in the North to Andalucía in the South, many of the paradores are located in areas of exceptional beauty, namely the National Parks of Spain. The Doñana National Park, the Cazorla Nature Preserve, the Picos De Europa National Park and the Sierra de Grazalema all have paradores, providing nature lovers with ample opportunity to indulge their passion.

There are also Spanish paradores in the Canary Islands and the Spanish cities of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. All the paradores’ locations are such that travellers wishing to immerse themselves in the history, culture and romance that are so definitive of Spain can do so whilst simultaneously being able to fully explore the diversity of the Spanish countryside.

There are approximately 90 paradores in Spain, all exuding a heady mix of culture, passion and sumptuous indulgence that is second to none. Around a third of the buildings are places rich in historical interest. These include Moorish palaces, ancient monasteries, medieval castles and majestic stately homes.

With their commitment to protecting the environment, the chain of paradores undertakes extensive, sympathetic restoration projects, resulting in luxurious accommodation where modern comforts blend effortlessly in with centuries-old, elaborate architecture.

For lovers of fine wines and dining, a parador is the embodiment of exquisite cuisine combined with impeccable service. Whilst each individual parador is unique, there exists a continuity of service and quality that is reassuring in itself. The wine cellars contain some of the finest wines available and the restaurants themselves are often the domain of a master chef who oversees the preparation of the speciality menus focusing on traditional dishes particular to the locality.

The City of Granada, in Andalucía, is often described as having the most popular parador, with reservations being made many months in advance. This description is largely due to the location of the hotel, in the grounds of the magnificent Alhambra Palace.

The Granada Parador is part of a palace and mosque built during the XIV century and later converted into a Franciscan convent. Prior to the removal of their remains to the Royal Chapel, the Capilla Real, the bodies of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, rested here.

The interior décor is a history lesson in itself, with its classical furniture, portraits, engravings and embroideries all displaying the very essence of both the Arabic and Christian styles for which the Alhambra is renowned.

Each of the bedrooms is unique in its décor and offers an exceptional view of either the buildings that make up the Alhambra, the gardens of Generalife or of the neighbouring Albaicín.

For a memorable stay in Spain that will leave you wanting to return, a Spanish Parador has to be your choice of accommodation. You will not be disappointed.