Viajar no es solo desplazarse, hay quienes planifican una escapada alrededor de una mesa bien servida, quienes necesitan perderse por calles históricas, quienes buscan silencio absoluto o quienes no conciben un viaje sin un amplio reportaje de fotos. Porque no todos viajamos igual, en Paradores hay un destino pensado para cada tipo de viajero. Aquí va una selección de Paradores para acertar… sea cual sea tu forma de viajar.
Lovers of cities with soul
There are travellers who are seduced by their palates. People who see travel as a succession of flavours, products and recipes with identity. Who read menus with the same passion with which others leaf through maps. For them, Galicia is a promise fulfilled, a land where the product reigns supreme and tradition is savoured. Seafood fresh from the fish market, impeccable fish, empanadas (pasties), pulpo a feira (octopus) or caldo gallego (Galician broth) are dishes from a cookbook that is enjoyed even more when the setting is right.
The Parador de Cambados is a magnificent starting point. Located in an elegant pazo (manor) in the capital of Albariño, it invites you to discover the Ría de Arousa and the heart of the Rías Baixas. The setting is ideal for wine tourism, with wineries open to visitors, vineyards and tastings that help you understand the essence of its wines. At the Parador itself, the experience continues at the table, with a careful selection of local wines that pair well with fish and seafood, Padrón peppers, and Galician cheeses. And afterwards, there's nothing like a stroll through Cambados, whose historic centre is a Site of Cultural Interest, following the route of the pazos, including Fefiñanes and the Pazo de Bazán itself, now a Parador.
Lovers of cities with soul
Some people enjoy getting the most out of every city, walking around tirelessly, visiting museums, discovering squares and letting themselves be carried away by the local atmosphere. For those who are curious and restless, Salamanca is an inexhaustible destination. Its university character permeates every corner of this city, which has been declared a World Heritage Site, where history blends with a vibrant cultural life.
A stroll through its historic centre takes you to must-see sights such as the Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful squares in Spain; the Casa de las Conchas; the cathedrals and their terraces; and the historic university building, where you can look for the famous frog. Added to this are places such as the Tormes river park, the Casa Lis, the Automotive History Museum and the Unamuno house museum. To relax after a busy day, the modern Parador de Salamanca, located on the banks of the river, offers the perfect counterpoint. The views from its restaurant overlooking the city are spectacular, especially when accompanied by an hornazo (meat pie), farinato (sausage) or one of the hearty stews typical of Salamanca cuisine.
Adventurous and active spirits
Some travellers see their trip as a succession of plans, challenges and outdoor experiences. For them, the Catalan Pyrenees are an unparalleled playground. La Seu d'Urgell, north of Lleida and very close to Andorra, is in a superb location, surrounded by natural parks and landscapes that inspire you to adventure.
From here you can reach the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, the Alt Pirineu Natural Park and the Aigüestortes Natural Park and Lake Sant Maurici. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing, golf and rafting in the Segre Olympic Park are just some of the options available. After a day of activity, the Parador de la Seu d’Urgell offers relaxation in a building that combines the sobriety of its 18th-century cloister with modern facilities including a heated swimming pool, gym, sauna and solarium. At the table, craft sausages and cheeses give way to traditional dishes such as escudella barrejada (meat and vegetable soup), perfect for recharging your batteries.
Passion for culture
Some travellers stop in front of every work of art, read the buildings and travel with their knowledge of history. For them, Paradores are much more than just a place to sleep. The network houses nearly 10,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries and historical furniture.
The Parador de León is one of the greatest examples of this wealth. The former Hostal de San Marcos, a 16th-century Renaissance gem, houses nearly 500 works of art. Following its reopening in 2020, it combines classical pieces with contemporary art. Highlights include the altar by Juan de Juni in the cloister, the choir stalls in the church and works by artists such as Chillida, Barjola and Pancho Cossío. All this makes a stay here a complete cultural experience, perfect for continuing to explore León and its valuable historic centre.
Gazes that capture every moment
Some trips are also experienced through the camera lens. For those looking for stunning scenery and memorable spots, the Parador de Cruz de Tejeda is a real spectacle. Located at an altitude of 1,560 metres, on one of the highest points of the island of Gran Canaria, it blends into the cultural landscape of Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains, a World Heritage Site.
From here, the views over the Tejeda caldera are simply breathtaking. The building, designed by Miguel Martín-Fernández de la Torre, offers panoramic views from the restaurant, the rooms and, especially, from the outdoor spa pool, from where Tenerife can be seen on clear days. A setting that turns any photo into an unforgettable memory.
Connection with nature in its purest form
Travelling in harmony with the environment is a priority for many travellers. They value accommodation that blends into the landscape, respect for local traditions and experiences that bring them closer to rural life. This is the concept behind Paradores' “Nature for the Senses” programme.
One of the best examples of this is the Parador de Cangas de Onís, located in the monastery of San Pedro de Villanueva, at the gateway to the Picos de Europa mountain range. Surrounded by greenery and on the banks of the River Sella, it has been recognised as the Best Sustainable Inland Accommodation. Adapted for cycle tourism, with a vegetable garden, insect hotel and activities ranging from interpretive trails and cheese and cider tastings to botanical workshops, it is an invitation to discover the most authentic Asturias.
For the over-50s who want to explore
Travelling at a leisurely pace, enjoying good food, heritage and complete experiences is a priority for many over-50s. The Parador de Hondarribia combines all this in an exceptional setting. This 10th-century castle, which has hosted kings and historical figures, stands in the Plaza de Armas, in the heart of the pedestrianised historic quarter.
From here you can discover a perfectly preserved monumental ensemble with walls, historic gates and the colourful Marina district. Hondarribia is also the gateway to France, with Hendaye on the other side of the Bidasoa river. In the surrounding area, cultural and natural attractions such as Chillida Leku and the Playaundi ecological park complete a peaceful and enriching getaway.
