If you are passionate about history, cultural heritage and good cuisine, there is no better way to discover the jewels of inland Spain than by following a route through four of its most emblematic cities, all of them World Heritage Sites. On this tour, not only will you discover the historical and cultural wealth of Toledo, Alcalá de Henares, Segovia and Ávila, but you'll also enjoy the comfort of staying at the Parador hotels in each of these cities. Are you up for it?
First stop: the city of three cultures
We invite you to start your adventure in Toledo, where the Parador de Toledo awaits you with open arms. Its privileged location will allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the city, while you immerse yourself in the history that emanates from monuments such as the Alcázar, the Cathedral and the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, each one the guardian of centuries of tradition.
From the wonderful terrace of the Parador, admire the landscape of this city, known as the City of Three Cultures, home to Christians, Muslims and Jews over the centuries. In this unique setting, we invite you to plan your sightseeing tour while you savour the delicious La Mancha cuisine offered by the Parador.
Don't forget to include the Church of Santo Tomé in your itinerary. Here you can admire El Greco's famous painting The Burial of Count Orgaz. And, if time permits, we suggest you enjoy a night-time tour of the most mysterious Toledo or that of the Templars, or simply wander through its charming streets, and be carried away by the city's unique atmosphere.
RESERVA EN EL PARADOR DE TOLEDO
Second stop: birthplace of Cervantes
After a well-deserved rest, continue on your way towards the capital, where the Parador de Alcalá de Henares awaits you in a warm atmosphere full of character. This welcoming refuge is the ideal place to relax after a long journey, whether you enjoy the tranquillity of its facilities or take a dip in the refreshing pool while you contemplate the beauty that surrounds you.
Your stay at the Parador will be the perfect starting point to explore the charms of Alcalá de Henares. Start your tour in the emblematic Plaza de Cervantes, where you can visit the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, one of the greatest literary geniuses of all time. Stroll through the picturesque cobbled streets, among Renaissance palaces and convents that conceal centuries of history. Walk along the Calle Mayor, leading to the Corral de Comedias. Although the oldest theatre in Spain, it remains alive and offers theatrical performances, allowing you to travel back in time through culture and tradition.
The Parador de Alcalá de Henares is not only a perfect retreat in the heart of the city, but also an excellent starting point for those wishing to explore beyond the city walls. Nearby, you will discover other destinations steeped in history and beauty, such as Madrid, with its vibrant city life; Chinchón, a picturesque village that seems frozen in time; and Aranjuez, whose splendid Royal Palace and gardens will transport you back to the time of the Kings. These places, with their cultural and scenic wealth, will complement your trip, creating an unforgettable experience.
RESERVA EN EL PARADOR DE ALCALÁ DE HENARES
Third stop: a journey into the medieval past
The next destination on this route is Segovia, famous for its impressive Roman aqueduct, one of the best-preserved structures in the ancient world, and the Parador de Segovia. This is located in a privileged setting overlooking the aqueduct, and will provide you with the perfect place to rest after an intense day of sightseeing.
In Segovia, getting lost in its medieval streets is a real pleasure. The imposing Segovia Cathedral and the Alcázar, with its moat and drawbridge, evoke the times of monarchs and knights. The medieval walls surrounding the city are the best-preserved in Spain, along with those of Lugo and Ávila.
Don't forget to try the famous judiones de la Granja (beans from La Granja) or suckling pig while you are here. We recommend the Parador restaurant, where Segovian cuisine is at its best, without the hustle and bustle of the city centre. If you plan to stay longer than a day, visit the surrounding areas of the city, such as the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, with its majestic gardens in the style of Versailles, and the Palace of Riofrío, with its Hunting Museum and spectacular landscapes.
RESERVA EN EL PARADOR DE SEGOVIA
Fourth stop: the medieval town par excellence
To put the finishing touch to this fascinating route, head for Ávila, a city that is especially captivating for its impressive, perfectly preserved city walls, surrounding the historic centre with 88 towers and 9 gates. Before starting your tour of this historical gem, stop off at the Parador de Ávila, an ideal place to rest and recharge your batteries.
From there, start your visit with a walk along the parapet of the wall, an elevated walkway from which you can admire the panoramic views of the city. The climb up to the Humilladero de los Cuatro Postes will allow you to contemplate one of the most beautiful postcard views of Ávila, especially when the sun goes down, tinting the city with warm tones at sunset. Among the most emblematic monuments awaiting you in this medieval city, the Cathedral of San Salvador and the Convent of Santa Teresa are a must, each with its own history and mysticism.
And, as at every stop on this route, gastronomy plays a fundamental role. In Ávila, one of the best culinary experiences you can have is a succulent T-bone steak and the famous Barco de Ávila beans. Don't forget to try the traditional patatas revolconas con torreznos (fried potatoes with bacon) and, to top it all off, the unmistakable yemas de Santa Teresa, a sweet that encapsulates the very essence of the city. Where can you enjoy all this? Without a doubt, at the Parador.
