Journey to Andalusia
Explore the history and beauty of southern Spain with Paradores stays in its most striking locales
If there is one place in Spain that exudes charm and soul, it is Andalusia, a region full of legends and traces left by ancient civilisations. Its characteristic villages of snow-white houses survey the landscape from above, embodying the essence of this Mediterranean country. They weave a lively urban fabric around winding streets, courtyards with flower-filled balconies, and secret passageways that lead you back to a distant past. The inexhaustible Spanish sun reflects off the traditional limestone architecture, built using artisanal techniques and recognised by UNESCO on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, keeping its interiors cool. Open the door to Paradores, luxurious hotels that symbolise Spanish culture, history and gastronomy, and discover the magic of Andalusia’s stunning white villages.
Mojácar
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Mojácar, copyright: Shutterstock
On a mountainside in Almería lies Mojácar, one of the prettiest villages in Spain and, according to local legend, the birthplace of Walt Disney. Its steep streets, delightful squares and numerous viewpoints bewitch at first sight. Stroll through the old town, pass through the Moorish city gate rebuilt in the 16th century and stay by the sea at the Parador de Mojácar. Relax and unwind in an oasis of cosy, spacious facilities with coastal vistas from every room, and savour typical Andalusian cuisine and seafood at the restaurant.
Arcos de la Frontera
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Parador de Arcos de la Frontera
Arcos de la Frontera, the first of Cadiz’s 19 white villages, is one of the most picturesque settlements in the Cadiz mountains. Basilicas, castles and convents displaying the characteristic architecture of Arab origin adorn its skyline, interspersed with unforgettable views. Among its buildings, those of its vibrant Plaza del Cabildo, the town’s nerve centre, stand out, and it is here that the Parador de Arcos de la Frontera is located. Crossing its threshold is to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a traditional Andalusian house, from the beautiful courtyard inside to the outdoor terrace that offers sweeping panoramas across the region.
Ayamonte
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The mouth of the Guadiana River guards the last Andalusian town before crossing the border into Portugal. This is Ayamonte, a beguiling maze of narrow streets that enchants from every corner. Squares, countless churches, a bustling market and golden sandy beaches complete the picture of this part of Huelva, which can be enjoyed even more intensely from the Parador de Ayamonte. A laid-back, beautiful accommodation that provides uninterrupted repose and unbeatable views of the river and the neighbouring countryside, especially at sunset.
Cazorla
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At 831 metres above sea level, in Jaén, you will find the village of Cazorla, considered by many the most welcoming in Spain and named the second most welcoming in the world (after Sigiriya, in Sri Lanka). Its castle, square, viewpoints, historic houses and the ruins of its church – unique in Europe because it was built over a river – invite you to take a pleasant stroll, before heading deep into the mountains to savour the tranquillity of the Parador de Cazorla, a traditional Andalusian farmhouse immersed in nature where you can sample the best cooking in the area.
