Travelling by bike: eight Paradors ideal for discovering cycling tourism
27 de September 2023
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If you like sport and travelling, we have the perfect proposal for this autumn. Cycling is one of the most popular sports in Europe. Aware of this, at Paradores we have equipped 27 of our establishments with everything you need to enjoy two wheels. There is a designated storage area, a workshop, a washing area and, in some Paradors, you even have the option of taking your bike up to your room. We have also designed routes so that you can enjoy cycling, whatever your level. All the details you need to go out and explore the surrounding area by bike: distance, level of difficulty, route... are available at the Paradors adapted for cycling. Whether you're just starting out on your bike or you're an advanced user, here are eight destinations worth discovering. Put on your helmet and join us.

 

A journey through our cultural wealth: Parador de Lorca

 

Lorca is the perfect destination for cycling. Medieval walls, Christian towers, Jewish quarters, cisterns, synagogues, orange groves and vineyards are just some of the curiosities that you may come across if you set out on a trip in the surrounding area. Amazing sights that will make you forget the effort of pedalling. But this mixture of cultures is not only found in the area surrounding the Parador. If you stop at our Helios restaurant, you will also be able to savour the combination of the Jewish, Arab and Andalusian civilisations.

 

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Parador de Fuente Dé: the spectacle of Picos de Europa

 

One of the most dreamy and magical experiences for cycling. Cycling through the area where the Parador de Fuente Dé is located, you will be able to admire the grandeur of the Picos de Europa at close quarters. Along the way you will discover fairytale sites such as Magrojevo, a mountain village that has been declared a Historic Site and is home to a host of architectural monuments dating back to the 12th century. Another town you will pass through is Potes, the capital of Liébana, with its surprising Old Quarter and Infantado Tower. And if you fancy trying some other sports, then we recommend you take the cable car outside the Parador to set off on a hiking route through the valley. And don't forget to try the Lebaniego stew we serve in our restaurant during your visit. You're sure to love it.

 

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Travel back to the Middle Ages: Parador of Sos del Rey Católico

 

You are in the ideal place to wander through the streets and immerse yourself in the most distinguished historical legacy of our country. This is no more and no less than the city where Ferdinand the Catholic was born: Sos del Rey Católico. On your bike, you will be able to see places of interest such as the Castle of Javier or the Monastery of Leyre. You will also feel privileged as you ride through some of the most beautiful natural spots in Spain, such as the Yesa reservoir or Roncal valley. And make time for a stroll through the streets of this town, as the historic quarter of Sos is full of magnificent examples of Gothic and Renaissance art, as well as cobbled streets reminiscent of fairy tales.

 

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"Castillo de Javier en el entorno del Parador del Sos del Rey Católico"
Castle of Javier in the vicinity of the Parador of Sos del Rey Católico

 

A bike ride à la carte: Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga

 

Thanks to the routes we have designed at the Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga, you will have the chance to choose itineraries with a variety of themes. For example, you can spend a day discovering the beauty of the Natural Park of Fuentes Carrionas and Fuente de Cobre, where the Parador is located. Or perhaps you are more interested in discovering the countless examples of Romanesque art to be found in the surrounding area. During your journey you will come across architectural gems such as Santa María la Real or the church of San Juan de Moarves. And if you need a little more encouragement, the Parador allows you to bring your pet on this adventure. Confirm conditions beforehand.

 

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World Heritage Site: Parador de Córdoba

 

An ideal place for the more adventurous. Cordoba is the perfect place for discovering cycling tourism with Paradores. During your cycle tour you will pass through the places that have made Cordoba a World Heritage City: the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcázar of the Catholic Monarchs, the bridge and the Roman temple. But don't just settle for the must-see sites. There are many lesser-known spots that you may not have heard of: Fuente de los Perros, Guadiato Lagoon or Arenales Bridge. And if after all this you need more sport, at the Parador you can make use of the tennis and paddle tennis courts or the golf course.

 

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A corner for great poets (and cyclists): Parador de Soria

 

If Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, Antonio Machado and Gerardo Diego found inspiration for their poems here, it should be easy to find charming routes. To start with, there's nothing better than going off on your bike and contemplating the impressive views of the Ribera del Duero. It is also a pleasure to get lost in natural paradises such as the Sierra del Urbión, the Cañón del río Lobo or the famous Laguna Negra. We have also designed a trail that leads to the ancient archaeological site of Numancia, a must for those who often think of the Roman Empire. Of course, we have reserved a gastronomic spot for you  to pay tribute to the Castilian-Leonese cuisine. The migas sorianas (fried breadcrumbs) with creamy hare and mushroom rice, together with the suckling pig, served off the bone and pressed, are examples of the delicacies you can savour in the Parador restaurant.

 

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Discover the hidden spots of Salamanca: Parador de Salamanca

 

Salamanca is another of the great cities declared a World Heritage Site. It is well worth starting your visit in its historic quarter, one of the most beautiful in Spain. Be amazed by the beauty of its architecture, starting with the Plaza Mayor square. Visit iconic buildings such as the Casa de las Conchas, famous for its façade. On leaving the city, head for Alba de Torme, where the majestic Basilica of Santa Teresa is hidden. There is also a route that will take you to the beautiful town of Ledesma. And once at the Parador, enjoy the views of the city from several of its rooms.

 

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Between villages and valleys: Parador de Lerma

 

The Arlanza Valley is one of the main places of interest for pedalling. There you will discover medieval villages of great beauty such as Covarrubias, Santo Domingo de Silos and Salas de los Infantes. If you are looking to enjoy nature, the Arlanza and Yecla Nature Reserve trail will surprise you. Get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most representative ecosystems of Castile-León. But you won't just find beautiful landscapes on this trip. The Parador de Lerma has at various times in its history been the accommodation of the most important royalty in our country. Famous personalities such as King Philip III, Napoleon Bonaparte and the controversial and famous Duke of Lerma (its original owner) have stayed here. History is still very much alive in every corner of this establishment.

 

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