Christmas is that time of year when we want to enjoy ourselves, get together and seek out experiences that will thrill both children and adults alike. This year, Paradores is the perfect retreat for those who want to enjoy a different kind of holiday, full of activities, tradition and plans for the whole family. At a Parador, you will enjoy a warm Christmas atmosphere and, outside, thousands of things to do. From cities that sparkle with thousands of lights to snowy landscapes, Christmas markets and warm beaches where Father Christmas arrives... almost in flip-flops.
We suggest four unforgettable getaways. What will your Christmas be like this year?
A Christmas full of light and fantasy very close to Madrid
Just 40 kilometres from the capital, Alcalá de Henares is transformed into a veritable Christmas wonderland this Christmas. Its streets, squares and neighbourhoods are lit up with more than 600 decorative elements that embrace the city in a magical atmosphere. It is a perfect destination for families, where Christmas is celebrated with music, shows, markets and activities that keep the little ones entertained all day long.
Plaza de Cervantes, the heart of the city, becomes a small theme park with an ice rink, carousel, Santa's train, Ferris wheel and a tourist train that takes you straight to the Monumental Nativity Scene, one of the most impressive in the region. In addition, the Christmas market offers crafts, sweets and unique gifts to find that special something we all look for at Christmas.
Concerts take place throughout December, from Talents to Dubbi Kids, and the Paco de Lucía Auditorium is transformed into a "Christmas Auditorium" with musicals, magic and dance. For families travelling with children, you couldn’t ask for more.
If your visit lasts several days, just 10 kilometres away, another Christmas universe awaits you: Mágicas Navidades de Torrejón, a large theme park with unique experiences. From the video mapping of the Puerta Mágica and the Grinch family, to the amazing Santa’s Flight or the ice rink on a lake designed by champion Javier Fernández.
And if the plan is to enjoy yourself, relaxation is also part of the magic. After a day full of lights, music and excitement, there's nothing like arriving at a comfortable and welcoming place. The Parador de Alcalá de Henares is just that, a beautiful, modern and historic accommodation where families feel truly at home. Spacious rooms, quiet spots and delicious cuisine that tastes like celebration. What's more, it's so close to the historic centre that you can come and go at your leisure, making the most of every Christmas activity knowing that there's a place waiting for you where you can relax and continue enjoying yourselves together.
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The most authentic Alpine Christmas in the heart of the Pyrenees
If your family dreams of a picture-perfect Christmas, Vielha and the Val d’Aran are the place where it seems to snow even when it doesn't. Charming villages, Romanesque churches, white mountains and a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere make this destination a safe bet for those looking for a holiday with an alpine feel.
The Baqueira Beret ski resort, one of the best in Europe, completes the picture: skiing, snowboarding, sledging, family activities... Meanwhile, in the valley, culture and tradition are still very much alive. Visiting the large nativity scene in Bossòst, touring museums with the family or taking part in traditions such as Era Soca de Nadau in Les is a wonderful way to get closer to the essence of Aranese culture.
Children have their own kingdom, the Parc Infantil de Nadau, in the Palai d'Esports in Vielha, with activities to burn off energy all afternoon, and an ice rink in the middle of the street. Added to this are the Christmas markets in Vielha, Les and Arties, perfect for discovering local crafts and renowned cuisine, where Aranese Olha is the undisputed queen of winter.
And to truly savour the essence of Vielha, there is no better place than the Parador de Vielha. Here, the Christmas experience is complete with incredible views of the valley, a heated spa pool perfect for relaxing after the snow, a children's play area and spacious rooms where families feel truly comfortable. It is a warm refuge, the kind of place you want to stay a little longer, and the ideal starting point for discovering the best of the Pyrenees at this special time of year.
Christmas magic between sea, history and tradition
Very close to Vigo, a city well known for its dazzling Christmas lights, Baiona also dresses up for the festivities and becomes an ideal setting for a family getaway. Its historic centre is filled with lights, entertainment and markets to delight the little ones, who also switch on the city's illuminations, designed especially for them.
During this time of year, several temporary markets are set up, offering unique and products, perfect for special gifts.
Added to all this is the charm of the Parador de Baiona, another dream come true, a medieval fortress overlooking the Atlantic, surrounded by walls and gardens where sleeping becomes an experience in itself. Its location is perfect for combining Christmas in Baiona with a visit to the famous lights of Vigo. A truly wonderful plan.
Christmas by the sea
For families who prefer to escape the cold without giving up the magic of Christmas, Mojácar is the perfect destination. Its mild climate allows you to enjoy walks on the beach even in December, and its festive atmosphere blends with the Mediterranean touch that makes it so special.
The town of Mojácar, one of the most beautiful in Spain, is decorated for the occasion with warm lighting, children's activities and that characteristic white and blue atmosphere that seems even more beautiful at Christmas. Nearby, other towns in eastern Almería also hold markets, workshops and family activities.
A few kilometres away, an irresistible plan for the little ones, Oasys MiniHollywood, the legendary theme park in the Tabernas Desert, dresses up for Christmas with special shows, decorations and activities that make the visit an unforgettable adventure. A perfect and different plan that both children and adults will enjoy.
And as relaxation is also part of the trip, the Parador de Mojácar is the perfect choice for any family. It is secluded enough to get away from it all, but close enough to reach any destination effortlessly. Its spacious rooms, children's area, gardens and direct access to the beach make it the perfect retreat for a different kind of holiday, more relaxed, warmer and always with the sea in the background. Because, let's face it, unwrapping presents in flip-flops has its charm too.
