The Paradores of Northern Spain

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Spanish history than by staying in a Parador. Originating from the verb parar (“to stop”), the word Parador in Spanish literally means “stopping place” or “inn”. These luxury hotels are located in historic buildings such as castles, palaces, convents, and fortresses, each with its own unique story and charm. Step into the 10th century walls where the Catholic Monarchs, the Emperor Charles V, Philip IV and V, and Diego Velázquez once slept in Hondarribia. Fall asleep in the oldest hotel in Spain, the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, just steps from the iconic Cathedral of Santiago. Wake up in a restored 8th century monastery in Picos de Europa. Since 1928, these deluxe accommodations have served as a resting place for travelers and a preservation of Spanish cultural heritage. Today, there are over 90 paradores in Spain, all in beautiful and lesser-known locations.

Why intoAsturias?

🚴 Immersive Activities
🏡 Hand-picked accommodations
🗓️ Customizable itinerary
🗣️ Local recommendations, guidance, and support
♻️ Sustainability Pledge

Why Paradores of Northern Spain?

We know from experience that a trip across the Paradores of Northern Spain is a brilliant way of discovering the region. That’s why we created an immersive 2-week itinerary! You’ll discover six different regions, each in a distinct, beautiful location where there’s always something unique to do. We have plenty of recommendations for every sort of traveller, from guided wildlife tours in Picos de Europa to historical gems like the Cave of Altamira.

• León: Located in the historic region of Castilla y León, León is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and medieval streets. The Parador de León, set in the monumental Hostal de San Marcos, is a breathtaking Renaissance building. Immerse yourself in the local culture by tapa-hopping in Barrio Húmedo and step inside the Cathedral of León to admire the Gothic stone structure with breathtaking stained glass windows. 
  
• Santiago de Compostela (Galicia): The heart of pilgrimage in Spain, Santiago de Compostela marks the end of the Camino de Santiago. The Parador Hostal dos Reis Católicos, originally a pilgrims’ hospital, now serves as a luxurious parador, right next to the famous Cathedral of Santiago! Discover Galician gastronomy with a tour of Santiago de Compostela’s Mercado de Abastos.
  
• Cangas de Onís (Asturias): Nestled in the lush landscapes of Asturias, Cangas de Onís is the gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park. The Parador de Cangas de Onís, a former monastery, is beautifully situated by the Sella River. Reconnect with nature with a visit to the Covadonga Lakes and private birdwatching tour. Alternatively, visit a traditional cider mill to learn how Asturias’s most popular drink is made.
  
• Santillana del Mar (Cantabria): A perfectly preserved medieval town, Santillana del Mar is often described as the “Town of Three Lies”; it’s neither holy (santi), flat (llana), nor by the sea (mar). But don’t let its name fool you: staying at the Parador de Santillana del Mar, you can wander through cobbled streets lined with stone houses, a perfectly picturesque experience! Visit the nearby Caves of Altamira, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Upper Paleolithic cave paintings of bison, deer, and human hands.
  
• Hondarribia (Basque Country): Positioned on the northern coast near the French border, Hondarribia is a fortified town with medieval walls and stunning views of the Bay of Biscay. The Parador de Hondarribia, set within a 10th-century castle, offers panoramic views over the estuary. You can easily take a day trip to San Sebastian and Bilbao to visit cultural destinations like the Guggenheim Museum.
  
• La Rioja (La Rioja): Famed for its wine culture, La Rioja is the perfect destination to explore vineyards, try local wines, and visit medieval villages. The Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada is located in a historic pilgrimage town, where you can learn about the cultural heritage of the Camino de Santiago.

Ready to discover the Paradores of Northern Spain?

Take a break from the everyday and immerse yourself in the beauty of northern Spain. Book with us today for an unforgettable holiday experience! We do all the planning to ensure a hassle-free holiday, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the planning; however, this trip is entirely customizable to suit your needs, so you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip to Spain.

Are you looking for shorter tours? We have a variety of shorter, one-day activities you can include in your holiday to northern Spain. Whether you’re looking to hike part of the Camino de Santiago, spot bears and wolves, or simply want to explore the region, take a look at our variety of activities on offer!

To receive a trip proposal for the number of days and travellers, please contact us by email info@intoasturias.com or fill in an enquiry. ¡Hasta pronto!