A guide to help you discover the best Paradores in Northern Spain
Northern Spain is one of my favorite regions due to its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, including the Basque Country’s rugged coastlines and Asturias’s lush valleys.
The Paradores in Spain are luxury hotels, often located in historic buildings like castles, monasteries, or palaces, and provide luxurious accommodations in a unique setting.
When planning to travel Spain, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference. Here’s my guide to the best Paradores in Northern Spain, focusing on the unique and historic paradores.
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Table of Contents
5-star Paradores in Northern Spain
1. Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos
- Great dining options
- Luxurious amenities
The 5-star Parador hotels in Northern Spain are unique not only because of their historical and cultural value but also because of their luxurious amenities.
Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos is a 5-star accommodation in Santiago de Compostela, combining art, history, and tradition.
Originally a Royal Hospital for pilgrims, it now offers rooms with four-poster beds, free Wi-Fi, and classic décor.
I find Parador de Santiago in Spain to be a magnificent representation of history and luxury, perfectly situated in the charming old town of Santiago de Compostela.
The Reis Catolicos features four impressive cloisters, lounge areas, and two restaurants, Dos Reis and Enxebre, serving Mediterranean and traditional Galician cuisine.
The hotel is considered the world’s oldest and one of the most luxurious and one of my favorite city breaks in Spain.
2. Parador de León
- Excellent location
- Very good breakfast
Second on my list of the best resorts in Northern Spain is Hostal San Marcos, once the Order of Santiago emblem, now housing the Parador de León.
The historic hotel in León was built in the 16th century to house the Military Order of Saint James’ western headquarters and was financed by King Ferdinand the Catholic.
It features a museum, cloister, chapter house, guest rooms, library, and restaurant. Today, it attracts travelers to experience the city’s history and cultural heritage.
The Parador offers rooms with antique furnishings, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, mini-bars, and balconies.
You can taste traditional local cuisine in the onsite restaurant, and they can enjoy their coffee in the café decorated with mural paintings.
Check out the guide on where not to miss out on Spanish holiday, highlighting all the must-see spots, together with this wonderful Parador de León.
4-star Paradores in Northern Spain
3. Parador de la Granja
- Impressive 18th-century building
- Spa services
The Parador de La Granja, located in La Granja de San Ildefonso, is an impressive 18th-century building in the Casa de los Infantes.
What I love about these best Paradores in Northern Spain is that they hold so much history. This property, for instance, was originally built for the children of King Carlos III., the Infantes Gabriel and Antonio.
It features modern decoration, bright rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, an indoor spa pool, and contemporary-styled lounges.
The standard and superior double rooms and suites impress guests with their blend of the building’s original charm and modern touches.
The Parador de Granja also houses the Guardia de Corps Conference and Convention Centre, which can accommodate over 600 people.
Where to stay in Spain? – I think you just got the answer.
4. Parador de Corias
- Housed in a 11th-century monastery
- Indoor heated pool
Parador de Corias is an 11th-century monastery in Cangas del Narcea, Asturias, also known as “The Escorial de Asturias.
While visiting, I discovered that the monastery was occupied by Benedictine monks and declared a national historic and artistic monument.
This historic hotel offers free Wi-Fi, contemporary décor, and large rooms with stunning views of the natural surroundings.
The property features a restaurant, spa, and heated indoor pool. The Parador combines tradition and modernity, offering unique event salons and sharing space with Dominican monks.
It also houses a museum containing the remains of the original 11th-century church and a unique art piece by Portuguese artist Rui Macedo, known as the Cabinet de Curiosites.
Isn’t it true that the Paradores in Spain are so unique, that you have to try them out?
5. Parador de Cangas de Onís
- Riverfront
- Traditional rooms
The Parador de Cangas de Onís is a historic Benedictine monastery in Asturias, located on the banks of the River Sella.
It offers traditional rooms with stone and wood decorations, which worked well for me as I love authenticity when I travel.
The monastery, a National Monument, was founded by King Alfonso I in the 8th century and is surrounded by the Picos de Europa Mountains.
The Parador has free Wi-Fi, local dishes from Asturias and local cheeses in the onsite restaurant, and also archaeological exhibitions.
The area also features a Roman bridge, Santa Cruz Chapel, and prehistoric caves.
If you want to relax in one of the best Paradores in Northern Spain and take advantage of the top-notch amenities, I recommend you to check out the Parador de Cangas de Onís.
6. Parador de Gil Blas – Santillana
- Rooms with fireplaces
- Great location
I find it so wonderful how these Paradores in Northern Spain combine history and modern services to perfection, like the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas.
This modern hotel offers a relaxing getaway with its courtyard, on-site restaurant, and bar.
I’m still fascinated by the fact that the Parador Gil Bas is a 17th-century noble townhouse located in Santillana del Mar. Its origins go back to the 8th century, and it now has National Monument status.
The building was transformed into a Parador in 1946, marking the beginning of the Paradores Network, being one of the most unique places to visit in Spain.
The hotel features a stone façade, elegant interior, wooden floors, and comfortable rooms with fireplaces.
The spacious, air-conditioned rooms include amenities like a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries.
7. Parador de Argómaniz
- Mountain views
- Large gardens
The best places in Northern Spain await you and I have yet another attractive parador to share with you.
The Parador de Argómaniz, a Renaissance palace in Argómaniz overlooking the Gorbea Mountains, awaits the guests for a relaxing getaway.
The building dates back to 1712, when it was an important crossroads for different cultures. A legend says that Napoleon planned the attack on Vitoria at this very place.
It offers spacious rooms with wooden floors, air conditioning, satellite TV, and countryside views. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, large gardens, and a playground for children.
I absolutely loved the uniqueness of the Parador’s restaurant, Aletegui, which lies in the 18th-century coffered ceiling and porthole windows, showcasing Basque architecture.
I think Parador de Argómaniz is a great start when it comes to places for winter holidays in Spain.
8. Parador de Calahorra
- Family services
- Delicious dining options
The Parador de Calahorra is a historic building on the River Ebro in La Rioja. Known for its Roman-era cathedral, it offers comfortable rooms, meticulous decoration, and cozy lounge fireplaces.
In the red-brick building, I could admire the Christian artwork and the large doorways, and my favorite part was relaxing in the palm garden.
The hotel’s restaurant serves typical Riojan dishes and the region’s world-famous and best Spanish wines.
The Parador de Calahorra is an ideal family destination with event halls, a cafeteria, a common lounge, and a hotel car park.
The resorts in Northern Spain have everything you need for an unforgettable trip, am I right?
9. Parador de Ribadeo
- Stunning views
- Charming interior decor
The Parador Hotel in Ribadeo, located on the border of Galicia and Asturias, has a picturesque setting overlooking the Eo Estuary.
The hotel features a charming interior decorated with rural touches and elegant furnishings, and I also enjoyed the panoramic views from my room.
The rooms offer panoramic views of the Galician landscape, and they include a minibar, TV, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries.
The Ribadeo estuary, part of the River Eo, Oscos, and Tierras de Burón Biosphere Reserve, is a significant ecological inlet and a hub for nautical and sporting activities.
The coastline boasts stunning beaches, including a unique late-night sailing experience.
3-star Paradores in Northern Spain
10. Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga – Fuentes Carrionas
- Big rooms
- Breathtaking views
The Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga is a charming hotel in rural Castile, located in the Fuentes Carrionas Reserve.
With its stunning views of the surrounding nature park, the Ruesga Reservoir, and the Picos de Europa mountains, I felt at peace.
The hotel’s interior features natural tones, wood beams, and wooden paneling, with large windows offering breathtaking countryside views.
This is one of the best Paradores in Northern Spain. It is a perfect base from which to explore the local landscape and Romanesque art.
The hotel also features a park, children’s play area, football pitch, games room, and currency exchange facility.
11. Parador de Ferrol
- Good food
- Panoramic views
The Parador de Ferrol is a charming hotel in the heart of a seaside town. What I find most attractive is that it resembles a traditional mansion.
The hotel’s interiors are designed to blend with its maritime setting, featuring world maps, sailing motifs, and nautical instruments.
The spacious rooms feature organic tones, parquet flooring, and antique-style decor.
The restaurant serves Galician cuisine, seafood, and desserts, while lounges offer a homely and luxurious atmosphere.
The Parador de Ferrol is located in the emblematic neighborhood of La Magdalena. It offers panoramic views of the arsenal buildings and the ría.
12. Parador de Fuente Dé
- Mountain views
- Very good breakfast
Here I am at the last Parador, and it can’t go better than this. The Parador de Fuente Dé is a modern hotel in the Picos de Europa Mountains, with easy access to the Fuente Dé cable car.
The hotel features spacious rooms with mountain views, wooden floors, leather furnishings, heating, and air conditioning.
It also provides gardens with a children’s play area, a lounge with newspapers, and a bar. The restaurant serves Cantabrian dishes and can also offer packed lunches.
Parador de Fuente Dé offers a variety of activities for rural tourism enthusiasts, including hiking trails, canoeing, rafting, rappel rope climbing, and snowshoeing.
It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers seeking a unique and rewarding experience from some of the best Paradores in Northern Spain.
The most beautiful places in Spain are lined up here in front of you. You just have to choose one.
My conclusion on Paradores in Northern Spain
Exploring the best Paradores in Northern Spain has been an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Each Parador in Northern Spain offers a unique experience, blending luxury with the rich heritage of its surroundings.
Staying in these exquisite hotels, I’ve felt genuinely connected to the charm and beauty of the region.
If you’re looking for a memorable and immersive travel experience, the paradores are a perfect choice.
Discover the magic of Northern Spain and let these exceptional accommodations enhance your adventure.
FAQ about Best Paradores in Northern Spain
What are the best Paradores in Spain?
Some of the best Paradores in Spain are Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Parador de Leon, or the Parador de Granada.
What are the best historical Paradors of Spain?
Some of the best historic Paradors of hidden Spain are Parador de Fuente Dé, Parador of Cardona, or Parador de Almagro.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
