As the year 2024 unfolds, Paradores, Spain’s state-run luxury hotel network, introduces a range of new developments, from opening new hotels to renovating existing properties and offering engaging experiences and tours. With a collection of 97 historic and cultural hotels across Spain, including converted monasteries, Moorish fortresses, and medieval castles, as well as modern properties, Paradores is a gateway for British holidaymakers to delve into Spain’s rich culture, celebrated gastronomy, and natural beauty.
In late 2024, Paradores will be opening Parador de Molina de Aragón in Guadalajara, Castile-La Mancha, as its 99th hotel. Perched atop the city with sweeping views of the Molina de los Caballeros fortress, this contemporary-style Parador will feature 22 rooms, wellness facilities, and a restaurant showcasing regional cuisine. With a €20 million investment, the new property aims to promote sustainable tourism and bolster the local economy by creating 22 jobs. Just two hours from Madrid, the Parador invites British tourists to explore the area’s medieval heritage and natural parks, such as the Alto Tajo Natural Park.
The contemporary Parador de Benicarló, located in the lively fishing port of Benicarló near Valencia, has reopened after a €2.8 million renovation. The hotel now boasts refreshed guest rooms and solar technology for renewable energy. To celebrate the reopening, discounted rates of €87 per night are being offered until May. Guests can indulge in the local Benicarló artichoke and Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant, relax in sea-facing rooms, or unwind in the extensive garden leading to a sandy beach. Accommodation starts at £90 per night on an accommodation-only basis.
Paradores’ “Nature for the Senses” initiative, developed in partnership with the Global Nature Foundation to promote sustainable tourism, now includes more of its historic hotels. Guests have the opportunity to participate in various experiences, such as wine-making workshops in Parador de Verín, pottery workshops in Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera, rum distillery tours in Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, and wolf ecology excursions in Parador de Puebla de Sanabria. These initiatives allow guests to immerse themselves in Spain’s diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Paradores has renewed its collaboration with the Spanish Railways Foundation (FFE) to integrate Spain’s “Green Routes” (Vías Verdes) into the cycling offerings of Paradores. With over 30 routes near Paradores, including Plasencia, Teruel, and Salamanca, the project promotes cycling tourism as a sustainable way to explore Spain.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays and New Scientist, Paradores has launched a new tour exploring the Canary Islands’ prestigious astronomy sites and volcanic landscapes. This 7-day expedition covers La Palma and Tenerife, offering expert-led stargazing and visits to unique environments, such as sub-tropical rainforests and ancient volcanic craters. The tour includes stays at Paradors de La Palma and Las Cañadas del Teide and starts at £2,989, departing on 28 November 2024.
2024 marks the Holy Jubilee of Caravaca de la Cruz, a religious and hiking pilgrimage event that occurs every seven years in the Region of Murcia. This spiritual journey, known as the Camino de Levante route, culminates in Caravaca de la Cruz, offering pilgrims the chance to visit the holy cross believed to contain a fragment of the Lignum Crucis. Nearby, Parador de Lorca provides a historic accommodation option starting at £75 per night.
Oviedo, the capital city of the Spanish region of Asturias, has been named the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2024. This recognition celebrates Asturias’ rich culinary heritage, from hearty meat and seafood dishes to creamy cheeses and traditional cider. The nearby Paradors in Cangas de Onis, Gijon, and Corias offer a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and time-old traditions.
Valencia has been awarded the title of European Green Capital 2024 in acknowledgment of its efforts to enhance sustainability, quality of life, and environmental conservation. Parador de El Saler, located in the Albufera Natural Park, embodies this green vision through the use of solar energy, water conservation, local sourcing, innovative recycling, and wildlife conservation initiatives.
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