Rollercoasters, dinosaurs or time travel? If you’re travelling with children (or with adults who remain young at heart), there’s one question that always arises on holiday… how can we make today truly extraordinary?

The answer may be closer than you think. Just a few kilometres from some of Spain’s most captivating theme parks lie Paradores that can effortlessly transform a simple day out into a complete, luxurious getaway.

Because after a day filled with thrills, there is still time for a refreshing dip in the pool, a relaxed family dinner, or a stroll through some of the most beautiful corners of the country. Pack your bags. Let the adventure begin.

History has never been as thrilling as the experience offered by Puy du Fou España, located just 12 kilometres from the Parador de Toledo. Here, knights, kings, explorers and legendary heroes star in immersive shows that leave both children and adults spellbound. Rather than conventional rides, visitors are treated to a spectacular immersion into Spain's history through breathtaking stage productions.

Yet, the adventure doesn’t end when the curtain falls. Back at the Parador de Toledo, the magic continues with a summer favourite: an outdoor swimming pool boasting the finest views of the imperial city. While the children let off steam with a swim, adults can unwind and soak in one of the most breathtaking panoramic vistas of Toledo.

Why not extend your stay? Toledo is a veritable playground for adventure, with its medieval alleyways, ancient city walls, monumental gates, tales of knights and enchanting hidden corners.

They do. And they live just 31 kilometres from the Parador de Chinchón. Warner Park Madrid remains one of the premier destinations for family fun. From the beloved Looney Tunes characters to the heroes and villains of the DC universe—not to mention some of Europe’s most exhilarating rollercoasters—every member of the family will find their own adventure here.

Then comes the time to wind down. At the Parador de Chinchón—housed in a beautifully restored former Augustinian convent—you will find expansive gardens and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, offering the perfect sanctuary for those wishing to enjoy the summer without travelling far.

The getaway has another major draw: Chinchón itself. Its famous Plaza Mayor, widely considered one of the prettiest squares in Spain, alongside its quiet streets and welcoming atmosphere, turns a family stroll into the perfect way to round off the day.

At Faunia, you can explore diverse ecosystems from around the globe in a single day. Penguins, manatees, reptiles, tropical birds and educational experiences offer a mini-trip around the world without ever leaving Madrid.

For accommodation, just 35 kilometres from the park sits the Parador de Alcalá de Henares. Housed in a former 17th-century convent school, it masterfully combines historic heritage with contemporary design. The Parador features an outdoor swimming pool in the summer and a fully equipped spa for those seeking a moment of pure relaxation after a busy day out with the family.

And if you are still keen for more, Alcalá de Henares—the birthplace of Cervantes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offers a wealth of cultural attractions. Should you wish to visit the capital, central Madrid is just a few kilometres away and easily accessible by public transport.

The Mediterranean, Mexico, China, Polynesia or the Wild West. At PortAventura World, you can travel around the world in just a few hours.

Its themed areas, shows and attractions for all ages make it one of Europe’s most comprehensive family destinations. The bravest visitors can look forward to some of the continent’s most iconic rollercoasters, while younger children can enjoy characters, shows and adventures tailored especially for them.

Less than an hour’s drive away, you will find the Parador de Tortosa, magnificently housed in the ancient Castillo de la Zuda. After the high-octane excitement of the park, this is the ultimate place to slow right down. The outdoor pool is ideal for relaxing on summer afternoons, while the sweeping views over the River Ebro and the town offer a unique perspective on the region.

The local cuisine is another highlight, with exceptional rice dishes, fresh fish and seasonal produce from the nearby Ebro Delta taking pride of place on the menu.

If you decide to stay for a few days, we highly recommend discovering the golden beaches of the Costa Daurada (just 20 minutes from the Parador) and the serene landscapes of the Delta.

This is no metaphor. At Dinópolis, in Teruel, dinosaurs are the undisputed stars of the show.

Just 9 kilometres from the Parador de Teruel, this theme and science park takes you back millions of years to discover giant creatures, simulators, live shows and interactive experiences that fascinate young and old alike.

The proximity of the two destinations makes this getaway exceptionally convenient for families. Once the dinosaurs have finally gone to sleep, it’s time to head to the Parador de Teruel’s outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by lush gardens and perfect for cooling off during the warmer months. Its restaurant also offers the chance to sample some of Aragón’s finest culinary treasures, with the celebrated Teruel ham taking centre stage.

Looking for something extra? Explore the city to discover why its striking Mudejar architecture has been recognised as a World Heritage Site.

There are parks where the rides take precedence, and then there is Sendaviva, which seamlessly combines nature, wildlife and attractions in one place, making it an idyllic experience for families.

Located just 50 kilometres from the Parador de Calahorra, this expansive nature and leisure park is the perfect choice for those seeking unique experiences and a genuine connection with the natural world.

After an active day, the Parador de Calahorra offers the serene tranquillity that families crave on holiday, allowing guests to rest and recharge in an unrivalled setting. Furthermore, the location is ideal for exploring the surrounding region, with its nature trails, charming villages and family-friendly activities across Eastern La Rioja, where the great outdoors takes centre stage.

Lions, giraffes, elephants, gorillas and rhinos. Cabárceno Nature Park is one of those rare places that consistently exceeds expectations.

It sits just 35 kilometres from the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas and 45 kilometres from the Parador de Limpias —two flawless locations from which to discover one of Europe’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Following your safari, both Paradores provide an idyllic setting to unwind. Santillana del Mar offers accommodation within a medieval town widely considered one of the most beautiful in Spain, while Limpias invites you to discover the verdant, peaceful side of Cantabria.

And if the adventure continues, prehistoric caves, sandy beaches, coastal routes and some of the prettiest villages in northern Spain round off a family getaway that will be hard to forget.

If your holiday takes you down towards the Mediterranean, Terra Mítica is just 51 kilometres from the Parador de Jávea —a flawless combination for alternating high-octane thrills with beach days and the relaxed atmosphere of the Costa Blanca.

Meanwhile, in Andalusia, Isla Mágica—just 37 kilometres from the Parador de Carmona —adds an extra dose of fun to a break that allows you to discover one of the most fascinating historic towns in the province of Seville.

Because holidays are, above all, about enjoyment. Stay at a Parador and indulge yourself.

CHOOSE A PARADOR AND ENJOY IT WITH YOUR FAMILY