
Local knowledge from expert travellers
29/10/2025 · By Tim Hall
Enhance your holiday with Great Rail Journeys as expert Tour Manager Tim Hall discusses how to get the most out a trip and uncover the places locals love.
Read moreImagine waking within the walls of a medieval castle, dining in a converted 15th-century monastery, or enjoying a sunset from the terrace of a former royal palace. Stay amongst the stunning Guadarrama Mountains, or relax with a bird's-eye view over Toledo's skyline - enchanted by your surroundings and the vistas.
This is the experience that awaits you in Spain's remarkable Parador hotels. More than just a place to stay, these are destinations in their own right - magnificent historic buildings, lovingly restored and transformed into hotels of exceptional character and comfort. With Great Rail Journeys, we invite you to step beyond the ordinary and journey through the soul of Spain, with these incredible properties as your home along the way as you explore central Spain, northern Spain, Andalucía and beyond.
Chosen for their cultural, historical, and artistic significance, each Parador offers a unique window into the story of Spain. While every hotel has its own distinct personality, they all share a commitment to providing an authentic and enriching experience.
Many Paradors are national monuments. You could be staying in a fortress that once guarded ancient borders, a tranquil convent that housed centuries of quiet contemplation, or a palace that hosted Spanish royalty. When staying at a Parador, history is not confined to a museum; it is all around you.
Paradors are often situated in the most spectacular locations. Whether perched atop a cliff with panoramic views of the coast, nestled in the heart of a vibrant historic city, or set amidst the rolling vineyards of a peaceful valley, your surroundings are an integral part of the experience.
Dining in a Parador is a celebration of regional gastronomy. With a deep commitment to local traditions and the finest seasonal produce, their chefs create exquisite dishes that tell the story of the local landscape through its flavours. It is a culinary journey that perfectly complements your travels.

Set in a 10th-century castle overlooking the Bidasoa Estuary, the Parador de Hondarribia celebrates its Spanish heritage with historic features and original suits of armour. The Parador has a private seafront promenade and an incredible location, putting the Basque Country's beauty within reach.

Built on the remains of the castle of Los Pimentel overlooking Benavente, the Parador de Benavente is surrounded by the extensive Gardens of La Mota. Guests enjoy views over the valleys of El Tera and El Órbigo, as well as access to the Torre del Caracol, which has a stunning Mudejar ceiling.

Straying from the trend of historical buildings, the Parador de Antequera is housed in a modern building in the heart of Andalucía. Guests enjoy stunning views over the Antequera plain and the Peña de los Enamorados, or Lovers' Peak and a beautiful setting with lush gardens.

Stay in the 14th-century Mudejar palace of Pedro I of Castile just outside of Seville in Moorish Spain. This expansive castle was reborn in 1976 as a Parador-designed Andalucían palace, yet retains its timeless with Mudejar patterns throughout the interior and sprawling views of southern Spain.

Located in the medieval heart of Alcalá de Henares, this Parador is set in three 17th-century convent schools. Its historic setting - and surrounding historical views - transport guests back in time, with even the on-site spa hinting at the past with its setting under the old convent church vaults.

Admire panoramic views of the Toledo skyline from a privileged setting on Emperador Hill at the Parador de Toledo. This Parador is set in a historic building with cosy touches like beams and wooden floors, yet offers luxurious facilities with all the modern amenities travellers desire.
With over 50 years of experience, we are the experts in crafting unforgettable escorted tours. When you travel with us, you can be confident that every element of your holiday has been thoughtfully considered, from the fascinating excursions to the comfort of your accommodation. We are here to guide you, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment of your Spanish adventure.





Uncover the gems of Spain and France's Basque Country from a grand hotel - a former fortified castle in Hondarribia, a medieval coastal town with a global reputation for great food. This gastronomy-packed tour includes sampling pintxos in San Sebastián as well as entry into Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum. Indulge in lunch at a winery in the famed La...





Discover the wonders of Andalucía on this memorable holiday, exploring three of the region's most iconic cities from the traditional town of Antequera. Embark on guided tours of glorious Seville and historic Córdoba, taking in the sights before travelling to Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra Palace and its beautiful Generalife gardens. ...





A celebration of rich culture, this journey delves into central Spain on an itinerary featuring three remarkable Parador hotel properties throughout the Madrid region - Parador de Alcalá de Henares, Parador de La Granja, and Parador de Toledo. Explore Madrid and its Royal Palace, journey on the renowned Strawberry Train, and set out on guided...





Indulge in an exploration of the cuisine, history and culture of northern Spain, on an unforgettable journey featuring superb Paradores - each with a rich heritage - and excursions which capture the unique traditions and flavours of the region. Following the 9th-century Camino de Santiago, a major pilgrimage route of medieval Christianity, we...





Discover the remarkable treasures and hidden gems of Andalucía, where centuries of history are waiting to be uncovered. Visit World Heritage jewels including the breathtaking Alhambra, the world's greatest example of Islamic architecture, and La Mezquita - Córdoba's epic mosque-cathedral. Explore the dramatic, cliffside city of Ronda and immerse...