The latest from Paradores, Spain’s state-run luxury hotel network

As 2024 unfolds, Paradores, Spain’s state-run luxury hotel network of 97 historic and cultural hotels, unveils a host of developments, from significant new openings and renovations to exciting new experiences and tours. With hotels set in converted monasteries, Moorish fortresses and medieval castles, as well as exceptional modern properties, Paradores continues to help British holidaymakers explore Spain’s rich culture, famous gastronomy and natural beauty.

New opening

New Parador, Molina de Aragon, opening end of 2024

Paradores will open the Parador de Molina de Aragón in Guadalajara, Castile-La Mancha, in late 2024, marking its 99th hotel. Nestled at the top of the town with panoramic views of the Molina de los Caballeros fortress, this contemporary-style Parador will feature 22 rooms, wellness facilities and a restaurant celebrating regional cuisine. Representing an investment of 20 million euros, it aims to support sustainable tourism and the local economy, by creating 22 initial jobs. Located just two hours from Madrid, it invites British tourists to explore the region’s rich medieval heritage and natural parks, such as Alto Tajo.

Renovations

The Parador de Benicarlo reopens its doors after renovation

Parador de Benicarló, a contemporary property located in the bustling fishing port of Benicarló, near Valencia, has reopened following a €2.8 million renovation. The renovations include a refresh of the rooms, as well as the installation of solar technology to provide a renewable energy source for the hotel. To celebrate, rooms are available at reduced rates from €87 until May. Guests can taste Benicarló’s distinctive artichoke and fresh Mediterranean dishes at the on-site restaurant, relax in the sea-facing rooms, or unwind in the extensive garden leading to a sandy beach.

Stays start at £90 per night based on accommodation only.

New experiences

New ecotourism experiences available in other Paradors

Paradores’ Nature for the Senses initiative, designed in collaboration with the Global Nature Foundation to promote sustainable tourism, has expanded to include more of its historic hotels, offering guests the opportunity to experience the diversity of heritage cultural and natural beauty of Spain. New experiences include local winemaking workshop presentations at Parador de Verín, nestled in Galicia’s Monterrei Valley; pottery workshops at the Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera, in Cáceres’ lush Vera Valley; visits to old rum distilleries at the Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, perched in the mountains of Gran Canaria; and at Parador de Puebla de Sanabria in Zamora, guests can embark on eco-friendly wolf excursions.

To learn more about the Paradores Nature for the Senses program, visit:

Paradores promotes Spain’s “Green Routes” for cycling enthusiasts

Paradores has renewed its partnership with the Spanish Railways Foundation (FFE) to further integrate Spain’s ‘green routes’ (Vías Verdes) into Paradores’ cycling offering, including tailor-made routes and facilities to accommodate cyclists . With over 30 routes located close to the Paradors, including Plasencia, Teruel and Salamanca, the project champions cycle tourism as a more sustainable way to explore Spain.

For more information on Paradores’ cycling offering, visit www. paradores.es/fr/cyclotourism-paradores

New tours

New astronomy and volcanoes tour with Kirker and New Scientist in the Canary Islands

In partnership with Kirker Holidays and New Scientist, Paradores has launched a new tour exploring the Canary Islands’ most prestigious astronomical sites and volcanic landscapes. This 7-day expedition takes visitors to La Palma and Tenerife, stargazing under expert guidance and discovering unique environments, from tropical rainforests to ancient volcanic craters, coupled with stays at the Paradors of La Palma and Las Cañadas del Teide.

The La Palma and Tenerife: Astronomy and Volcanoes Tour, from £2,989, departs on 28 November 2024. This tour includes return flights, 7 nights in Paradors with breakfast, 7 dinners, sightseeing, entrance fees, gratuities and expert advice from a guest speaker and Kirker tour guide. Book via www.kirkerholidays.cok

Key celebrations

Pilgrimages of the Holy Jubilee of Caravaca de la Cruz in the Region of Murcia

2024 marks the Holy Jubilee of Caravaca de la Cruz, an event that takes place every seven years in the Region of Murcia. This religious and walking pilgrimage, rooted in nearly 800 years of tradition, invites pilgrims to visit the Holy Cross of Caravaca, which is said to contain a fragment of the Lignum Crucis – the cross where Jesus Christ was crucified. The Camino de Levante route, culminating in Caravaca de la Cruz, offers a spiritually enriching journey in 5 stages, from Orihuela to Caravaca, passing historic sites, Roman ruins and vineyards, attracting both the faithful and hiking enthusiasts. Nearby is the Parador de Lorca, nestled in the castle grounds of the town of Lorca. This Parador offers stunning views of the city and houses the historic remains of a 15th-century synagogue.

Stays start from £75 per night, based on accommodation only

Oviedo, Spanish capital of gastronomy

Oviedo, the capital of the Spanish region of Asturias, has been awarded the prestigious title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2024. This recognition of Asturias’ rich culinary heritage, from its hearty meat and seafood dishes to its creamy cheeses and its traditional cider, poured from height according to local custom. For those wanting to delve deeper into Asturian cuisine, the neighboring Paradors of Cangas de Onis, Gijon and Corias offer a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on local ingredients and ancient traditions.

Stays at Parador de Gijon and Corias start from £80 and at Cangas de Onis from £95 per night, based on accommodation only.

Valencia, European green capital

Valencia has been awarded the prestigious title of European Green Capital 2024 in recognition of its efforts to improve its sustainability, quality of life and environment. This highlights Valencia’s proactive measures in reducing carbon emissions, promoting sustainable transport and conserving local ecosystems. The Parador de El Saler, located in the Albufera Natural Park, amidst the beauty of Spain’s largest freshwater lake, is the anchor of this green vision. The Parador embodies sustainability through the use of solar energy, water conservation, local sourcing, innovative recycling and wildlife conservation efforts. These initiatives align with Paradores’ goal of net zero emissions by 2030, reflecting Valencia’s ambition for climate neutrality and preserving its green heritage beyond 2024.

Stays at Parador de El Saler start from £95 per night, based on accommodation only.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is the editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for over 30 years. He is the winner of the Innovations in Travel “Best Travel Influencer” award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the best travel blogs in the world” and “best for luxury” by the Daily Telegraph.