The Castle of Saint Catherine in Jaen, the prefect place to stay. A 12th century castle.
Imagine spending the night in a Spanish castle, looking down from your perch on a lone hilltop. Or, how would you like to stay in an ancient monastery or a convent? Many such buildings are open to the public in the form of beautifully restored hotel facilities, thanks to a network of state-run Paradores.
You might expect such facilities to only be available to those with maximum spending power – but this is not so. In fact, one of the aims of the Parador hotels is to make these wonderful buildings and amazing destinations accessible to the average person. Therefore, while not exactly cheap, they are within the reach of those who really want to allow for such unique experiences.
Paradores are not always located in historic buildings. Sometimes the purpose of a Parador is to open up a fascinating – but remote – area to tourism. These are cases where private ventures hardly dare to risk setting up shop, so the government has taken the initiative to build quality facilities for those wishing to visit these out of the way places.

Even if you don’t stay in a Parador, you can still enjoy the amazing views, unique settings or just seeing the insides of castles, palaces and other historic buildings by having lunch, dinner or even just afternoon tea or a cup of coffee on the terrace.
One thing is certain: each Parador is a unique gem with a history all its own. However, you choose to get to know the Paradores you come across, be sure to find out the story behind each one – especially when restoration has been a factor. These are the history lessons you will never forget.
PARADORES IN ANDALUCIA
Almeria
Cadiz
Cordoba
Granada
Parador de Granada – a 15th century convent with a mix of Christian and Moorish in the interior design. |
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Huelva
Parador de Ayamonte (Huelva) - Spectacular views make this Parador worth visiting when you stay in Huelva. It is built on the highest point of the city of Ayamonte. |
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Parador de Mazagón (Huelva) – This contemporary ocean front hotel is also nestled in a pine forest. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the Atlantic ocean. |
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Jaen
Parador de Úbeda (Jaén) – Here is a 16th century rennaisance palace in the heart of Úbeda. A lovely way to enjoy an inland city full of monuments. |
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Parador de Jaén (Jaén) – Located in the Santa Catalina Fortress/Castle on Jaen’s hilltop. This Parador has most spectacular panoramic views. |
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Malaga
Parador de Antequera – This spacious and comfortable Parador is designed to make the Antequera area accessible to visitors. Near El Torcal. |
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Parador de Nerja – This is a charming hotel on a cliff, overlooking the sea in the lovely fishing village of Nerja. |
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Parador de Ronda – This building was once the Ronda town hall. The views are breathtaking and you are just a few steps away from the town’s most emblematic bridge over the gorge that divides the town in two. |
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Sevilla
Each Parador is a unique gem with a history all its own.
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