Paradors of Spain are a modern incarnation of the country’s most important historical buildings. Paradors were initiated concurrently with the Franco dictatorship as a means of financially supporting the rehabilitation of many of the top castles, religious houses, and historic palaces, and converting them into distinguished Spanish hotels. The best paradors of Spain are luxury hotels with four and five stars and are located all around the country.

The most distinguished and favored of all paradors of Spain is the fifteenth-century convent that is part of the illustrious Alhambra in Granada. The Alhambra parador was constructed in the early fourteenth century. It is a component of an early mosque and palace that was later transformed into a convent. Indoors, Christian and Arabic styles are evident and the interior is laden with portraits, antique furnishings, lithographs, and embroidered textiles. Spanish parador lodging at the Alhambra features 40 distinct guest rooms each with a private bath and great views of the many buildings that comprise the palace. Amenities include telephones, kettles, a mini bar, and complimentary Internet. There is onsite dining, air conditioning, and a garden.

North of Malaga in Jaen, Spanish parador lodging is available at Parador de Jaén, a tenth-century Muslim fortress sitting atop an escarpment overlooking the town and Andalusia country. The parador opened its doors in 1968 with 31 rooms on offer after a broad renovation and extension. Towering arches, period furniture, elaborate chandeliers, and a distinct Arab design highlight the interior. This is one of the best paradors in Spain, featuring welcoming and friendly rooms, many of which feature raised canopy beds. There is a huge dining room where local and international fare is served. Guests enjoy satellite TV, a mini bar, a telephone, and a private bath. There is also a swimming pool ideal for those hot summer vacations.

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A few hours southeast of Bilbao is another of the choice paradors of Spain: Parador de Zamora. This was once both a Moorish fortress and a Renaissance castle, and is one of the most opulently adorned of all Spanish parador lodging. Medieval details include lavish tapestries, several coats of arms, beautiful canopy beds, and plenty of historic armor. This four-star Spanish hotel features both indoor and al fresco dining, a large outdoor swimming pool, a beautiful garden, and plenty of green space to enjoy the outdoors in. Zamora offers many attractions including a massive cathedral, Spanish wineries, and special events during Easter.

There are a total of 94 paradors of Spain, each offering a unique combination of history, backdrops, and amenities. The best paradors of Spain feature incredible architecture, delicious cuisine, enchanting legends, and sweeping rooms adorned in luxurious detail. Toledo and Alcala de Henares both feature a number of the best paradors in Spain, while the others are scattered evenly across the country. Paradors can be booked through special vacation packages or arranged as a single amenity. The Parador Group of Spain offers special promotions such as a 5 Night Card (used at one or up to five paradors), a special low rate with advanced reservations, and up to 30 percent off for guests aged 55 years and older.