Spring is nature’s grand performance – the perfect time to lose yourself in the beauty of gardens in full bloom. Their history spans over 4,000 years, as seen in ancient Egyptian tomb paintings. The Pharaohs designed them to bring shade, freshness, and exotic elegance to their palaces with plants brought from distant lands. Today, gardens remain places of peace and wellbeing – spaces where stress dissolves, the air is renewed, and we reconnect with nature, whether strolling, reading, or simply admiring the view.
At Paradores, you’ll find gardens unlike any other – from cutting-edge designs (one of which featured in New York’s MoMA), to historic corners echoing French elegance or filled with native species that have stood for centuries. Each one holds its own kind of magic, just waiting to be explored.
A 3,000 m² garden that graced the MoMA
It’s almost hard to believe that in the literary heart of Alcalá de Henares – a city once home to Cervantes, Quevedo and Tirso de Molina – lies the spectacular Parador de Alcalá. Housed in a 17th-century convent, it has been lovingly reimagined, blending heritage with contemporary design in the most elegant way. From its grand cloister to the tranquil spa beneath vaulted church ceilings, every corner whispers stories of old and new. Don’t miss the convention centre, once 19th-century workshops, or the extraordinary "Jardín Tallado" – a sculpted garden so remarkable it was showcased at New York’s Museum of Modern Art.
Set where the convent’s orchard once flourished, this 3,000 m² garden now forms a verdant rooftop that enhances the guest rooms and harmonises with the local architecture. Inspired by Japanese gardens, its beautifully composed courtyards invite quiet reflection and a deep connection to nature. It has become the emblem of Alcalá’s Parador, located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And while you're there, indulge in regional Madrid cuisine at the historic Hostería del Estudiante or the elegant Santo Tomás restaurant – a culinary experience to remember.
BOOKING AT PARADOR DE ALCALÁ DE HENARES
Home to Europe’s oldest palm trees
Perched above the city of Córdoba, the Parador de Córdoba, sits on what was once the summer palace of Abd al-Rahman I. With breathtaking views and unforgettable sunsets, this is a place that won the heart of the first Umayyad Emir – and it continues to enchant visitors today. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Morena, the Parador combines stunning scenery, modern comforts, and easy access to Córdoba’s historic centre – a World Heritage gem. Savour regional delights like salmorejo, flamenquines and rabo de toro in its renowned restaurant. And take time to wander through the legendary Jardín de los Naranjos.
According to tradition, Abd al-Rahman imported palm trees from Syria to recreate the atmosphere of his homeland. Some of these palms – among the oldest in Europe – still stand today, offering a living connection to the splendour of the Caliphate era. Just eight kilometres away, the grand Medina Azahara awaits – a palace-city built by Abd al-Rahman III in honour of his beloved, and one of the most dazzling relics of Islamic Spain.
An oasis in the heart of Gijón
Combining urban charm with natural tranquillity, the Parador de Gijón is a peaceful haven set in a former watermill, surrounded by lush gardens. Stone pathways, a gentle pond, and proximity to the verdant Parque Isabel la Católica make it a hidden gem in the city.
Declared a Site of Cultural Interest, its historic garden hosts over 1,200 plant specimens from 65+ species – an ever-changing botanical symphony. After a day exploring, treat yourself to the flavours of the sea in the Parador’s restaurant, where Asturian dishes are served with a seafaring twist, always best accompanied by a crisp local sidra.
Dragos, Tajinastes and Tabaibas on the beautiful island
Known as La Isla Bonita, La Palma is a sanctuary of wild beauty and harmony. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island offers a striking mix of volcanic landscapes, ancient laurel forests, dramatic cliffs, banana plantations and dry coastal plains.
Here you’ll find the Parador de La Palma, a retreat of traditional Canarian architecture with panoramic views of the Atlantic at any hour of the day. Ideally located between the airport and the pastel-hued Santa Cruz de La Palma, it feels like a world apart.
Its gardens form a living museum, home to over 70 native species including towering dragos, vibrant tajinastes and resilient tabaibas. Lounge by the seasonal pool, enjoy the sauna or relax with a drink on the panoramic terrace – on clear days, you can even spot Tenerife and La Gomera on the horizon.
BOOKING AT PARADOR DE LA PALMA
French elegance and a century-old conifer in Asturias’ answer to El Escorial
Often referred to as the "El Escorial of Asturias", the Parador de Corias is housed in the grand Monastery of San Juan Bautista, a Romanesque masterpiece from the 11th century. A declared National Historic-Artistic Monument, it offers treasures at every turn – from the ancient church foundations and a magnificent library of over 7,000 volumes, to a restorative spa that soothes body and soul. Gaze through the cloister windows or stroll through its French-style garden, where a majestic Araucaria – brought from overseas by Benedictine monks – has stood sentinel for centuries. The monks have lived here for over 150 years, giving the site a quietly spiritual atmosphere.
Just beyond the Parador lies the pristine natural world of the Fuentes del Narcea, Degaña e Ibias Nature Park – home to the Muniellos Forest, one of Europe’s largest and oldest oak groves. This Asturian jewel offers a harmonious blend of history, serenity and scenic wonder.
A Palm-Laden paradise loved by Balenciaga
Tucked at one end of Jávea’s Arenal Beach, where the bustling town meets peaceful gardens and upscale villas, you’ll find the luminous Parador de Jávea. Here, the Mediterranean unfolds at your feet, and the views from the rooms are nothing short of spectacular. This sun-drenched haven boasts a private jetty, manicured lawns, and a lush tropical garden bursting with palms and bougainvillea. It’s no wonder the legendary designer Balenciaga often stayed here in the spring and autumn.
Dine on the freshest local fare in the Parador’s restaurant – fideuàs, seafood rice, grilled fish and garden vegetables are all on the menu. The scent of the sea, the colours of the garden, and the sparkle of the Mediterranean make for an unforgettable coastal escape.
