Parador de Gredos

It is the first in the Paradors’ chain, inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1928. It has three stars and is located in the Alto del Risquillo, with the Valle del Tormes at its feet, as well as the sierras of Gredos, Piedrahita and Béjar.

From bed you can hear the cowbells of the livestock grazing in the vicinity or the neighing of horses, on which you are able to take a stroll through these lush pine landscapes.

The building is of granite and slate. Some rooms have terraces and there are many spots throughout the building where one can sit quietly and read or contemplate the scenery.

You wake to the sound of the countryside, the forest, nature ... you eat breakfast tranquilly in a profoundly Castilian styled parador (state-run luxury hotel) with a medieval touch.

The next step is your choice; you can anchor yourself in the hotel (which I assure you will not be a waste of time) or tour some of the places surrounding you. Put simply, tranquillity at its finest.

Magnificent enclave. Very friendly service, impeccable. The public is not always appropriate for the site, too many children and noisy groups.

Best off-peak. Avoid weddings which are plentiful on weekends.