Winter is the ideal time to enjoy a cosy and relaxing getaway. During these months, the doors open to destinations that during the rest of the year may be more difficult to reach or too crowded. World Heritage cities, natural landscapes and tranquillity become the perfect setting to unwind. Far from being an obstacle, the cold is the perfect excuse to savour comforting gastronomy: stews, soups and traditional dishes, ideal after a morning stroll through the city or a walk through nature.
In this context, good accommodation becomes an ideal refuge, and Paradors are the perfect choice for relaxing by the fireplace and enjoying the winter scenery.
History and warmth at the heart of winter
The Parador de Ávila, located in the imposing Palacio de Piedras Albas, a Renaissance building dating back to the 16th century, is attached to the medieval city walls, in the heart of the historic centre. This building has witnessed centuries of history, is an outstanding example of Romanesque military architecture, and its cosy atmosphere invites you to relax by the fireplace or stroll through its gardens, full of archaeological artefacts, such as sarcophagi and a Celtiberian verraco (a stone image of a male pig) . Be sure to try the local delicacies, such as the patatas revolconas with torreznos (fried potatoes with bacon) and the Iberian Black Avileña veal, accompanied by the traditional yemas de Santa Teresa (egg yolks).
BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE ÁVILA
A warm place in Picos de Europa
Cangas de Onís, a picturesque destination that was the first capital of the Asturian Kingdom, is the perfect place to enjoy the winter in full contact with nature, gastronomy and historical heritage. The Parador de Cangas de Onís, located in the monastery of San Pedro de Villanueva, dates back more than 1,200 years, and its annexed Romanesque church hides a doorway that narrates the death of Favila, son of Don Pelayo, who was attacked by a bear. This Parador invites you to relax in its central cloister or in its cosy library, while you sample dishes such as Asturian bean stew or Asturian hotpot, followed by the delicious caramelised rice pudding, a dessert of monastic tradition.
BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE CANGAS DE ONÍS
An oasis of warmth
If you are looking for a unique winter getaway, the Parador de las Cañadas del Teide Parador offers you a unique experience at an altitude of over 2,000 metres, in the middle of a volcanic landscape, with views of the highest peak in Spain. The Parador is covered with a blanket of snow during the winter, creating a magical atmosphere. In this spectacular setting, you can relax in the winter swimming pool, enjoy the sauna or sample the delicious local gastronomy while taking in the lunar landscape.
BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE LAS CAÑADAS DEL TEIDE
Heat at the centre of history
In the centre of the ancient Roman city of Mérida, the Parador de Mérida occupies an 18th century Baroque convent, whose facilities preserve vestiges of the past, such as Roman columns in the cloister and a fireplace in a hall that once housed the hospital's patients. The Parador offers a peaceful and unique atmosphere, ideal for relaxing after exploring the city's historical treasures. In its restaurant, you can enjoy Extremaduran lamb stew or Iberian pork tenderloin, in an atmosphere steeped in history and flavour.
BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE MÉRIDA
Better views by the fireplace
The Parador de Segovia is the ideal place to enjoy the city and its winter environment. With superb views of the majestic Roman aqueduct and the imposing Alcázar, Segovia is a destination that always surprises. The Parador, with its spacious lounge with fireplace, invites you to relax while gazing at the moonlit city. In the restaurant, you can enjoy traditional roast suckling pig and suckling lamb, accompanied by traditional local dishes such as beans from La Granja, and finish with a delicious egg yolk punch or marzipan. You can also enjoy the heated swimming pool and explore the magnificent art collection in the lobby.
BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE SEGOVIA
This winter, there is no better plan than a getaway to one of these Paradors, where comfort, history and gastronomy combine to offer you an unforgettable experience.