Across its 100-year history, Paradores has become a benchmark in European heritage conservation, restoring nearly 100 historic buildings throughout the Iberian Peninsula into luxury accommodations – some of them thousands of years old. Today, as unique and sustainable properties, Paradores hotels are an exceptional showcase for Spain’s fascinating culture: places to immerse yourself in the art, history and typical cuisine of this country with its resonant Mediterranean soul.

Parador de Santiago de Compostela

Spanning more than 500 years of history, the Parador de Santiago de Compostela began as the Royal Hospital in the time of Ferdinand and Isabella and is considered not only the oldest hotel in Spain, but also one of the oldest in Europe. Historic guest rooms (including one that lodged Pope John XIII), views of the Plaza del Obradoiro (the final destination of pilgrims on the Way of St James) and four impressive cloisters are among the attractions that captivate travellers who stay in this parador, inviting them to journey back in time.

Parador de Granada

Sleeping in what many consider the eighth wonder of the world is indeed possible. The Alhambra in Granada, Spain’s most visited monument and the first in the country to be declared a Unesco World Heritage Site, houses a 15th-century convent, the Parador de Granada, built over a Nasrid palace. Today it boasts dreamy rooms, views of the Generalife gardens and historic spaces that transport guests to the era of Ferdinand and Isabella. Its courtyard, Arab hall, fountains and summer terrace are a pure delight. A must-see on your next visit.

Parador de Sigüenza

Step into a medieval vision in a 12th-century castle, the Parador de Sigüenza – an impressive fortress that dominates the skyline of a picturesque Castilian village and which, centuries ago, was home to kings, bishops and knights. More recently, it hosted Hollywood greats such as Marlon Brando. Marvel at the hotel’s parade grounds, its 12th-century Romanesque chapel and its vaulted feudal halls that seem to echo with the magic of the Middle Ages.

Parador de León

One of Paradores’ most iconic accommodations, the Parador de León – or, as it is popularly known, Hostal San Marcos – is a 16th-century Renaissance building in the heart of the historic city centre of León, which over the years has served as a convent, a prison, a museum, a school and a hospital; the great Spanish writer Francisco de Quevedo was imprisoned here in its early days. The prolific history of this edifice is still present in its beautiful interiors, recently renovated for maximum modern comfort. The property also houses unique spaces such as a cloister and a collection of more than 500 classical and contemporary artworks – a veritable museum in which to spend a memorable night.