The Paradores of Spain are so much more than luxury hotels. They are repositories of the romance and passion that is the history of this country. These special places literally exude the ancient perfume of Spain's majesty and mystery. Experiencing the Paradors of Spain is 'cultural tourism' at it's best - and a giant step above the usual tourist experience.
The Paradores of Spain are medieval castles, Moorish fortresses, ancient monasteries, charming palaces and stately manor houses. These are places of great historical interest and rare beauty.
If the Paradores Chain did not exist, it would be imposible to dream of spending an evening in a building that has lodged kings, nobility and other personalities from Spanish history, or to sleep in the same bedrooms that were used by the grandes of the country.
The walls of these national monuments, throughout the years, have kept the secrets of the legends and actions that they have witnessed; a history that Paradores has had the ability to skilfully recall by converting them into quality hotels.
On the other hand, one must highlight the work in restoring these monuments that would otherwise be allowed to fall apart and today, be forgotten.
A hospital, a convent, a castle or a palace… they all are unique buildings that Paradores has managed to sabe and to restore and turn into special tourist establishments that are standard bearers of excellence in quality.
Ther are a perfect combination between comfortable surroundings and the magnificence of a unique building.
An example, The Parador Toledo is set on a remarkable site that has un matched views out over the city. The building was originally built by the Count of Toledo in the 14th century and is completely Toledan in character. The restaurant serves as a school for the chefs of the other paradors, and the meals are nothing short of spectacular. There is much to see in Toledo, so you'll stay here for two nights. And you can enjoy the city: Toledo - the Imperial city - the city of three cultures. For many, Toledo mesmerizes - it exudes a strangely powerful attraction - dark, claustrophobic and profound. It was the seat of the Spanish Inquisition, the home of the brilliantly disturbed El Greco, and the scene of both vicious and heroic events during the Spanish civil war.
Dignified Toledo is full of splendor and endless surprises for the traveler. It is architecturally and culturally fascinating like few other cities could be. To look at Toledo from afar, is to be beguiled and astonished.
Another example for visiting, is The Parador Avila… backs right up against those very walls. You can walk out the doors of the Parador, across to a nearby park, and up some ancient stone stairs to the top of these magnificent fortifications - truly a walk back into time. The Parador is a former 16th century palace with granite floors and large bright rooms. It has pleasant gardens, and the restaurant serves the delicious specialties of Castile in a large stone and wood dining room. All together - you are assured of a memorable stay.
Avila rests in stately slumber behind perfectly preserved medieval walls. It's almost as if time has passed her by, yet she waits patiently for today's new pilgrims - the intrepid tourists.
Avila is for walking. In this "city of knights and nuns," you'll walk in the very footsteps of Saint Teresa - past her own Convento de Santa Teresa - past Spain's oldest gothic cathedral - past numerous stately homes, medieval and renaissance palaces - and along the top of the muralla - the awe inspiring city wall.
But the chain of Paradores is big… here you are a full description of each Spanish Parador package:
The "Soul of Spain" Spanish Parador package is a once-in-a-lifetime odyssey through timeless, monumental cities - the World Heritage Cities.
These places are so unique they have been classified by UNESCO as repositories of the heritage of humanity.
The "Finest of Spain" Spanish Parador package takes you to the most excellent of Spain. This package is for those who demand luxury, history, architectural beauty - and who have the time and inclination to enjoy themselves to the fullest.
These Paradors are all 4 and 5 star, but more - they are among the most unique and fascinating hotels in the world.
The "Castles of Spain" Spanish Parador package takes you on a magical and romantic trip into the past. Sleep where knights and kings slept, and walk in their very footsteps.
You'll enjoy accommodations in the finest castles in Spain, and have a travel experience like no other.
The "Passion of Spain" Spanish Parador package takes you through the south of Spain - Andalucia - where life is "a fire and a romance."
The "Catalan Spain" Spanish Parador package is a surprise-filled jaunt through the wildly varying land that is Catalunya.
Gothic, Gaudi, Costa Brava and the Pyrenees - all in one incredible tour.
The "Isles of Spain" Spanish Parador package takes you to the "land of eternal spring" - the Canary Islands.
These wonder-filled islands hide very special places of primeval beauty few travelers ever see.
The "Secret of Spain" Spanish Parador package takes you on a captivating trek through Extremadura - Spain's 'outback.'
This tour will let you experience what Spain was like before the invasion of the tourist hoards. Roam this still-traditional, homeland of the conquistadores.
The "Emerald of Spain" Spanish Parador package is a very special trip through a different Spain - a verdant countryside that glistens every shade of green - Galicia.
The cuisine is different, the language is different, the landscape is different - the Gallegos are different - and all in a completely enchanting way.
The "Heart of Spain" Spanish Parador package takes you on a route that circles Madrid and includes all the "must see" cities that are situated around Spain's great capital.
Stay in castles, former convents and palaces while visiting the heartland of Spain.
The "Wine and Paradors" tour #1 takes you on a route that includes the famous wine areas of La Rioja, and the Ribera Del Duero. It includes stays at two famous Bodegas, wine tasting, viniculture museums - everything wine!
More information: http://www.spainparador.com/
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