The latest news from Paradores

Think the festive season ends with Christmas and New Year's? Think again!

Christmas in Spain is a magical time filled with music as carolers sing traditional Spanish Christmas carols, known as villancicos, in city plazas and churches. The tradition dates back hundreds of years, and today the familiar melodies of Christmas carols wafting out of shops and markets are often the first sign that the festive season has arrived.

Cuenca, Spain, is one enchanting city famous for its Hanging Houses. Parador Cuenca is located right opposite these amazing architectural wonders, and it is the perfect spot from whence to enjoy them.

The Hanging Houses

The golf architect Robert Trent Jones was an absolute genius. Much of his inspiration comes from the beautiful land in the south of Spain: Marbella. Now known as "Golf Valley", this tropical region boasts several of Trent's designs in exquisite courses. All of these grounds are nearby the luxury hotel Parador Ronda, a central place to call home during your next golf holiday.

The Romans had a huge impact on Spain. They ruled the country for hundreds of years, and you can still find Roman ruins. When the empire fell, Spain was up for grabs. The two main fists grasping at the country were the Christians and the Moors.

Tug of War: The Moors vs. The Christians

Whether on a beach as the sun sets, or in a lush forest, horseback riding is a guaranteed adventure or the perfect romantic date, sometimes both. The luxury hotel chain Paradores is waiting to help you discover the thrilling experience of harnessing the power of a strong steed and exploring the natural beauty of Spain.

Spain's heritage is rich with religious festivals. Filled with traditional food, music and ceremonial rituals, the festivities are both joyful and solemn. The Spanish know how to throw a party, so here are three festivals not to be missed!

The Road to the Shrine of El Rocio

The freedom that comes from letting a car blast down the open road as fast as possible is a pleasure most people long to experience. Can you imagine the horsepower of a race car beneath your feet? The lucky few who are paid to live this adrenaline rush allow the rest of us to live vicariously through them as we watch from the sidelines.

The Need for Speed

Grand Prix racing, which was originally a French term meaning great prize, was started in 1906. By the 1920?s, Grand Prix racing had evolved into Formula One.

Ana Lía and Adrián held their wedding at Parador Baiona. Their wedding was held on a sunny Saturday afternoon in July 2012, and it went off without a hitch. They couldn't be more pleased with their decision. The summer weather was a perfect mix of hot sun and cool breeze, which contributed to making their special day even more magical.

There is a magical quality about summer. The sun, the beach, the sea. And of course, the refreshments. Every culture has a typical refreshing alcoholic beverage to sip at barbecues and afternoons sitting on the beach. The English have Pimms, the French have Pastis, the Argentinians have Pisco. Here in Spain, we have Sangria.

Sangria. The sound of the word fills you with the hopes and promises of long summer nights. A sweet blend of wine and brandy with fresh fruit thrown in, the drink is evocative of a day on the beach.

This summer the latest trend for weddings, for both brides and guests, is the headdress. What used to be a rare sighting at a Spanish weddings is now all the rage. Perhaps inspired by Kate Middleton, or by Sarah Jessica Parker, many guests and brides have chosen to adorn themselves with lovely decorative hats.

The soft sand, the bright sun, the salty sea and a thousand other things call us to the beach every summer. For all the joy that comes with a beach holiday, you definitely do not want to miss out on one of the most exciting parts: under the waves. There is a whole world just waiting for you to dive down and discover.

Scuba diving: the perfect holiday sport