As 2024 unfolds, Paradores, Spain’s condition- run luxury hotel network of 97 historical and cultural hotels, unveils a host of developments, from fresh openings and major renovations to engaging novel experiences and tours. With hotels spanning converted monasteries, Moorish fortresses, and medieval castles, as well as some extraordinary present properties, Paradores continues to help British holidaymakers examine Spain’s abundant society, celebrated cuisine and natural beauty.
New Parador, Molina de Aragon, opening in late 2024
Paradores is opening Parador de Molina de Aragón in Guadalajara, Castile- La Mancha, in soon 2024, marking its 99th resort. Lush atop the city with spectacular views of the Molina de los Caballeros fortress, this modern- style Parador does have 22 rooms, wellness facilities, and a restaurant celebrating local cuisine. Representing a €20 million expense, it aims to boost responsible tourism and regional economy, creating an original 22 work. It is only two hours from Madrid and offers a variety of healthy parks, including the Alto Tajo Natural Park, as well as its rich medieval past.
Parador de Benicarlo be- opens following renovation
Parador de Benicarló, a modern house situated in the radiant fishing port of Benicarló near Valencia, has reopened its gates following a €2.8 million restoration. The hotel’s guest rooms have been updated, as well as solar technology installed, which will make it a more renewable energy source. To celebrate, rooms are available at discounted rates from €87 until May. The on-site restaurant serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine, sit back and relax in its ocean-facing rooms, or unwind in the expansive garden that leads to a sandy beach.
Stays start at £90 per night on an accommodation- only basis.
New eco-tourism opportunities are available at more Paradors
More of its historic hotels have been added to Paradores ‘” Nature for the Senses” initiative, which was developed in collaboration with the Global Nature Foundation to promote sustainable tourism, giving guests the chance to experience Spain’s diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty. Visits of historic rum distilleries in Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, perched in the Gran Canaria mountains, and wolf ecology excursions are available at Parador de Puebla de Sanabria in Zamora.
To find out more about Paradores Nature for the Senses programme visit: https ://paradores .es/en/nature-senses
Paradores promotes Spain’s” Green Routes” for cycling enthusiasts
Paradores has renewed its partnership with the Spanish Railways Foundation ( FFE ) to further integrate Spain’s” Green Routes” ( Vías Verdes ) into Paradores ‘ cycling offering, including tailored itineraries and facilities to accommodate cyclists. With over 30 routes located near Paradors, including Plasencia, Teruel and Salamanca, the project champions cycling tourism as a more sustainable way to explore Spain.
For more information on Paradores ‘ cycling offering, visit www. paradores. es/en/cycle- tourism- paradores
With Kirker and New Scientist, Kirker and New Scientist are conducting a new astronomy and volcano tour in the Canary Islands.
A new tour of the Canary Islands ‘ most prestigious astronomy sites and volcanic landscapes has been developed in collaboration with Kirker Holidays and New Scientist. This 7-day expedition includes visits to La Palma and Tenerife, expert-led stargazing, and accommodations at Paradors de La Palma and Las Caadas del Teide.
The La Palma &, Tenerife: Astronomy and Volcanoes tour, starting at £2, 989, departs on 28 November 2024. This tour covers return flights, 7 nights at Paradors with breakfast, 7 dinners, sightseeing, entrance fees, gratuities, and expert guidance from a guest lecturer and Kirker tour leader. Book via www. kirkerholidays. cok
Pilgrimages of the Holy Jubilee Caravaca de la Cruz in the Murcian Region
The Holy Jubilee of Caravaca de la Cruz is observed in the Region of Murcia every seven years in 2024. This religious and hiking pilgrimage, rooted in nearly 800 years of tradition, invites pilgrims to visit the holy cross in Caravaca, believed to contain a fragment of the Lignum Crucis – the cross where Jesus Christ was crucified. The Camino de Levante route, culminating in Caravaca de la Cruz, offers a spiritually enriching journey across 5 stages, from Orihuela to Caravaca, passing through historical sites, Roman ruins, and vineyards, appealing to both the faithful and hiking enthusiasts. Nearby, is the Parador de Lorca, nestled within the castle grounds of Lorca city. This Parador features preserved synagogues from the 15th century and breathtaking city views.
Stays start at £75 per night, on an accommodation only basis
Oviedo as Spain’s capital of gastronomy
The prestigious title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2024 has been given to Oviedo, the capital city of the Spanish region of Asturias. As per local custom, this recognition of Asturias ‘ rich culinary heritage, which includes its hearty meat and seafood dishes, creamy cheeses, and traditional cider, was poured from a height. The nearby Paradors in Cangas de Onis, Gijon, and Corias serve a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and time-old traditions.
Stays at Parador de Gijon and Corias start at £80 and Cangas de Onis, from £95 per night, on an accommodation only basis.
Valencia as the European Green Capital
Valencia has received the prestigious title of European Green Capital 2024 in recognition of its efforts to enhance its sustainability, quality of life, and environment. This highlights Valencia’s proactive measures in carbon emission reduction, sustainable transportation promotion, and conservation of local ecosystems. The Parador de El Saler, which is situated in the Albufera Natural Park and nestles among the beauty of Spain’s largest freshwater lake, supports this green vision. The Parador embodies sustainability through solar energy use, water conservation, local sourcing, innovative recycling, and wildlife conservation efforts. These initiatives go against Paradores ‘ goal of eliminating all greenhouse gases by 2030, which is in line with Valencia’s commitment to preserving its green legacy after 2024.
Stays at Parador de El Saler start at £95 per night, on an accommodation- only basis.
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