December 2nd, 2002 | The lowdown by Paloma Gil

Sleeping Spain in Style at the "Paradores"

The "Paradores" are an entire network of state-run hotels located mostly inside ancient constructions that were at some point in history important castles, monasteries or convents.

In order for these national heritage and treasures not to become damaged, the Spanish state decided to turn them into beautiful, often luxury hotels but at reasonable prices.

The history of the Paradores began in 1910, when the Spanish government entrusted the Marquis of De La Vega Inclan to create a hotel chain ? almost non-existant at that time ? to host travelers and improve the image of the nation.

In the year 1911 King Alfonso the XIII chose the location for the first "parador" in the beautiful Gredos Mountains, near Madrid, where he used to go hunting. The construction was finished in 1928, and from that moment on efforts were directed to choosing the most splendid buildings to eventually increase the brand new hotel chain.

The Gredos inn was followed in 1930 by Toledo's and Jaen's. As the century has gone by, the number of paradores has increased by revamping historic monuments or by building new and modern ones. Today there are a total of 90.

One of the Paradores' main assets is the landscape that surrounds them, which often provide rooms with rather dazzling views. Either at the top of a mountain, down at a valley or by the sea, lodgers will not be disappointed.

Facilities may include beautiful swimming pools, tennis and golf course.
The stay becomes even more pleasant, this time for the stomach, thanks to the tradition of serving high quality regional dishes at their restaurants.

All hotels are rated four and five stars. Room prices range from 85 euros to 200 euros.

The fanciest are Leon, in the San Marcos Monastery, and Santiago de Compostela, originally a hospital for pilgrims and located at the town's main square.