As in the great classics of cinema and literature, decision making shapes the course of the story, making us active participants in the narrative. Within our network of Paradors, the one you choose to stay at can determine the type of story you want to be a part of, but the different experiences you have and activities you do there will set the course of the story.

It is here that micro-adventures or express getaways have gained popularity as an accessible and exciting way to disconnect from your routine without the need for long journeys or excessive preparation. These short getaways allow you to explore nature, experience local culture and leisure or learn about history in a shorter and more sustainable way.

We propose five alternatives for you to start writing your own story.

The Paradors adventure begins here, in Gredos, where on 9 October 1928 Alfonso XIII established the first establishment of the Network. Many stories have been told at this destination since then, and many more are about to be told. Perhaps the most important story is that the Parador de Gredos appears in history books as the place where the fathers of the Constitution met in early 1978 to draft the Magna Carta.

Just 2 hours by car from Madrid and in the heart of the Gredos mountain range, this place will allow you to discover incredible sites such as the Cuevas del Águila (Eagle’s Caves), hike to the source of the River Tormes or go horse riding in the mountains. This season is also ideal for mycological activities in the pine forests of the north of Gredos, where it is advisable to hire an expert to help you get to know all the different species of mushroom to be found. If you still have enough energy to squeeze a little more out of this adventure, the Parador offers astronomical observation activities and courses

Every good story must come to an end, and what better way to do so than to meet up with your companions on one of the Parador's terraces to chat about all your experiences while enjoying traditional mountain cuisine and spectacular views.

BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE GREDOS

If you want to experience a more classical story, the Parador de Almagro offers travellers four centuries of experiences.

Literature lovers should not miss a visit to the historic 17th century Corral de Comedias, located in the city's Plaza Mayor, where Lope de Vega and Tirso de Molina performed their plays. There are also activities in the city centre, where visitors can feel and experience the past through theatrical performances inspired by the Spanish Golden Age. At the Parador itself you can book these visits every Friday in September.

The city of Almagro offers much more than just theatre. Its traditional La Mancha architecture, its cuisine and natural landscapes, such as the Tablas de Daimiel National Park, are the beginning of an unforgettable story.

The Parador de Almagro is also celebrating its 45th anniversary on 26 September. This former 17th century convent will amaze you with its 14 interior courtyards and its characteristic blue-beamed galleries and corridors. The Parador has prepared a 45th anniversary menu for all guests who want to celebrate this special date.

BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE ALMAGRO

On the ancient Roman praetorium, next to Trajan's Arch, stands a Baroque convent of surprising simplicity. This could be the beginning of your story at the Parador de Mérida whose ancient history is visible throughout the building.

Located in the heart of the city, your adventure could begin inside the Parador itself, where its Garden of Antiquities houses archaeological pieces dating from the Roman, Visigoth and Mudejar periods. The Roman Theatre is 900 metres from the Parador, and the Temple of Diana is only 500 metres away. A weekend break in Mérida is enough to make a comprehensive tour of the city’s Roman history, thanks to the short distances between the various monuments.

Don't miss the Roman Bridge, where the Silver Route began, a walk to the Arch of Trajan, the Aqueduct of Miracles or its cultural centre. The story is never-ending.

BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE MÉRIDA

This lively university city, a World Heritage Site, is full of historic buildings and sites. The Parador de Salamanca is located opposite the historic centre and from its rooms you can see the most emblematic buildings. At the Parador you can enjoy the best views of the city.

This adventure mixes history with fun. You can start in the morning by visiting the city’s famous Assumption of the Virgin Cathedral and challenge your companions to find the figures of the astronaut and the devil while enjoying an ice cream and then go to the University and find the Lucky Frog. The last one to find all the figures has to pay for the aperitif.

Other points of interest to visit are the Convent of San Esteban and the Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells) before finishing your tour in the Plaza Mayor, where you will be imbued by the university spirit. A youthful and relaxed atmosphere where you can share all the experiences of your trip.

BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE SALAMANCA

Finally, we propose an adventure for you to experience numerous little stories. In the cosy and peaceful village of Limpias, you will find our Parador, a 20th century palace from which you can visit all the neighbouring villages.

The Parador de Limpias is an ideal starting point for visiting other areas such as Laredo, home to La Salvé, one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in the region with its immense five-kilometre stretch of sand; or Santoña, which holds the title of cradle of anchovies and is also home to the nearby beach of Berria. The area is ideal for rowing or canoeing, and for marvelling at the beauty and uniqueness of Cantabria, in places such as the Marismas Nature Reserve where the river Asón flows into the sea, the Collados del Asón Nature Reserve, a mountain massif shaped in the glacial period, or exploring the caves of Covalanas or Cullalvera.

Take advantage of small opportunities to create great stories with Paradors.

BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE LIMPIAS