Toledo bienvenida

oledo�In terms of cultural wealth, look no further than Toledo. From music

to artists, architecture, and even sword-making, Toledo has a rich

history which encompasses a wide range of cultural interests, engross-

ing for any visitor searching for a busy and enlightening city break.

Toledo’s Puerta de Bisaqra

Terrace dining at Parador de Toledo

City of 3 cultures The steel industry in Toledo dates back to 500BC with

swords and weapons being one of the primary products.

Hannibal was said to have sourced his weaponry from

Toledo, and as such the town was responsible for arming

many of the Roman legions during the Punic Wars. Today

its significant military contributions are recognized in the

Alcazar Fortress which sits atop Toledo watching over the

sprawling city below. A former defensive structure, it

dates back to Roman times, although it has been rebuilt

many times since then. The Renaissance façade now

guards the National Army Museum, home to numerous

artefacts and paintings, and housing a large library on its

top floor with over 100,000 printed volumes dating back to

the 16th - 19th centuries.

The architecture and cultural atmosphere of Toledo are

huge attractions, and a wander through the city uncovers a

range of wonders such as churches, mosques, synagogues,

and ancestral homes dating back many centuries. The

variation in style and history is one of Toledo’s most

charming features and this is prominently illustrated by

the city’s Cathedral. Originally modelled on Bourges’

Cathedral, the building combines Gothic and Mudéjar

styles and was built upon a former Mosque, which

originally replaced church, a prime example of the

changing cultures for which Toledo is famous.

During your visit make sure to stop by the Plaza de

Zocodover, originally an important Moorish market,

event, and festival point, the square is still one of Toledo’s

liveliest and most colourful centres.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Toledo is

often referred to as the ‘city of three cultures’ due to the

co-existing Christian, Moorish, and Jewish presence in

the 8th century and the proceeding years. The result of

this diverse cultural heritage is a city with fascinating

architecture influenced by these three prominent

communities.

Toledo’s most famous luminary is unquestionably the

renowned Renaissance artist El Greco. Originally from

Crete (hence his moniker ‘The Greek’), he moved to Toledo

when he was 36 years old and lived and worked in the city

until his death in 1614. El Greco’s art is celebrated interna-

tionally, often as one of the best examples of Spanish

Renaissance painting and sculpting, and Toledo does not

shy away from heaping praise on its most prized resident.

El Greco’s former home has been transformed into a

museum showcasing many of his works, many of which

can also be found in the beautiful Renaissance Tavera

Hospital, alongside other great Spanish and Italian works

by artists such as Jusepe de Ribera and Titian. One of El

Greco’s most famous paintings, ‘The Burial of the Count

Orgaz’, can be found in the Santo Tomé church, where

visitors can admire his work in beautiful surroundings,

featuring a majestic Mudéjar tower.

Music is also interwoven with Toledo’s artistic contribu-

tions with the city being an important guitar production

centre. Vistors to the city can watch the guitar-making

process at century-old classical guitar manufacturers

Guitarras Manuel Rodriguez and Sons.

2 3

Toledo bienvenida

oledo�In terms of cultural wealth, look no further than Toledo. From music

to artists, architecture, and even sword-making, Toledo has a rich

history which encompasses a wide range of cultural interests, engross-

ing for any visitor searching for a busy and enlightening city break.

Toledo’s Puerta de Bisaqra

Terrace dining at Parador de Toledo

City of 3 cultures The steel industry in Toledo dates back to 500BC with

swords and weapons being one of the primary products.

Hannibal was said to have sourced his weaponry from

Toledo, and as such the town was responsible for arming

many of the Roman legions during the Punic Wars. Today

its significant military contributions are recognized in the

Alcazar Fortress which sits atop Toledo watching over the

sprawling city below. A former defensive structure, it

dates back to Roman times, although it has been rebuilt

many times since then. The Renaissance façade now

guards the National Army Museum, home to numerous

artefacts and paintings, and housing a large library on its

top floor with over 100,000 printed volumes dating back to

the 16th - 19th centuries.

The architecture and cultural atmosphere of Toledo are

huge attractions, and a wander through the city uncovers a

range of wonders such as churches, mosques, synagogues,

and ancestral homes dating back many centuries. The

variation in style and history is one of Toledo’s most

charming features and this is prominently illustrated by

the city’s Cathedral. Originally modelled on Bourges’

Cathedral, the building combines Gothic and Mudéjar

styles and was built upon a former Mosque, which

originally replaced church, a prime example of the

changing cultures for which Toledo is famous.

During your visit make sure to stop by the Plaza de

Zocodover, originally an important Moorish market,

event, and festival point, the square is still one of Toledo’s

liveliest and most colourful centres.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Toledo is

often referred to as the ‘city of three cultures’ due to the

co-existing Christian, Moorish, and Jewish presence in

the 8th century and the proceeding years. The result of

this diverse cultural heritage is a city with fascinating

architecture influenced by these three prominent

communities.

Toledo’s most famous luminary is unquestionably the

renowned Renaissance artist El Greco. Originally from

Crete (hence his moniker ‘The Greek’), he moved to Toledo

when he was 36 years old and lived and worked in the city

until his death in 1614. El Greco’s art is celebrated interna-

tionally, often as one of the best examples of Spanish

Renaissance painting and sculpting, and Toledo does not

shy away from heaping praise on its most prized resident.

El Greco’s former home has been transformed into a

museum showcasing many of his works, many of which

can also be found in the beautiful Renaissance Tavera

Hospital, alongside other great Spanish and Italian works

by artists such as Jusepe de Ribera and Titian. One of El

Greco’s most famous paintings, ‘The Burial of the Count

Orgaz’, can be found in the Santo Tomé church, where

visitors can admire his work in beautiful surroundings,

featuring a majestic Mudéjar tower.

Music is also interwoven with Toledo’s artistic contribu-

tions with the city being an important guitar production

centre. Vistors to the city can watch the guitar-making

process at century-old classical guitar manufacturers

Guitarras Manuel Rodriguez and Sons.

2 3

Santiago de Compostelabienvenida

antiago�

This city’s name is synonymous with the Camino de Santiago

pilgrimage which sees millions of walkers, cyclists, and drivers

make the long journey across northern Spain on this spiritual and

stamina-testing journey. What people may not know is that this

World Heritage City is a jewel of a destination in its own right.

The end of the road or the start of a new chapter?

The Botafumeiro swings during the noon Mass on these dates Date*

Epiphany January 6Easter Sunday April 5 Ascension May 14Anniversary of the Battle of Clavijo May 23Pentecost Sunday May 24Feast of St. James July 25Assumption of the Virgin Mary August 15Feast of All Saints November 1Feast of Christ the King (before the �rst Sunday of Advent Sunday) November 22Feast of the Immaculate Conception December 8Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) December 25Translating the remains of Holy Apostle December 30

*Correct as of 16/12/14 according to www.horariosbotafumeiro.com

Its history is intricately linked with the Camino and the

Parador itself said to be one of the oldest hotels in the

world, offering respite to pilgrims for hundreds of years,

in fact the Parador still offers a free breakfast to the first

10 pilgrims to arrive each morning.

Santiago de Compostela’s Cathedral is without doubt one of

the city’s main attractions and holds a great deal of

religious significance amongst Catholics.

©www.santiagoturismo.com

©w

ww

.santiagoturismo.com

©Luis M

iguel Sánches

It is built up around a 1st century mausoleum, the final

resting place of Saint James who was one of the Twelve

Apostles and the Patron Saint of Spain. The Cathedral has

been expanded and retouched over the years resulting in

an attractive combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and

Baroque architecture, of which the high altar and dome are

particularly beautiful elements. One of the most famous

aspects of the Cathedral’s Basilica is the impressive

Botafumeiro.

You should not finish exploring the cathedral without visiting its rooftop which

boasts panoramic views over the city; we recommend an audio or guided tour of

this magnificent building to make the most of your trip.

In addition to the religious significance of Santiago de Compostela, the town also

has a lively historic centre with shops, bars and restaurants. We suggest visiting

the colourful ‘Mercado de Abastos’, the city’s main traditional food market,

where you can find local delicacies. Make sure you try some of the typical

seafood and fish dishes during your visit, Galicia is praised throughout Spain for

its history as a primary fishing region, and the traditional shellfish and octopus

specialities are delicious!

Above all, Santiago is a great starting point for discovering Galicia, Spain’s

greenest region and one of its most beautiful. With plenty to offer in terms of

beaches, nature, and charming villages, it is well worth using Santiago as a base

while you discover this diverse landscape.

de Compostelaantiago�

de Compostela

4 5

©www.santiagoturismo.com

©www.santiagoturismo.com

Santiago de Compostelabienvenida

antiago�

This city’s name is synonymous with the Camino de Santiago

pilgrimage which sees millions of walkers, cyclists, and drivers

make the long journey across northern Spain on this spiritual and

stamina-testing journey. What people may not know is that this

World Heritage City is a jewel of a destination in its own right.

The end of the road or the start of a new chapter?

The Botafumeiro swings during the noon Mass on these dates Date*

Epiphany January 6Easter Sunday April 5 Ascension May 14Anniversary of the Battle of Clavijo May 23Pentecost Sunday May 24Feast of St. James July 25Assumption of the Virgin Mary August 15Feast of All Saints November 1Feast of Christ the King (before the �rst Sunday of Advent Sunday) November 22Feast of the Immaculate Conception December 8Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) December 25Translating the remains of Holy Apostle December 30

*Correct as of 16/12/14 according to www.horariosbotafumeiro.com

Its history is intricately linked with the Camino and the

Parador itself said to be one of the oldest hotels in the

world, offering respite to pilgrims for hundreds of years,

in fact the Parador still offers a free breakfast to the first

10 pilgrims to arrive each morning.

Santiago de Compostela’s Cathedral is without doubt one of

the city’s main attractions and holds a great deal of

religious significance amongst Catholics.

©www.santiagoturismo.com

©w

ww

.santiagoturismo.com

©Luis M

iguel Sánches

It is built up around a 1st century mausoleum, the final

resting place of Saint James who was one of the Twelve

Apostles and the Patron Saint of Spain. The Cathedral has

been expanded and retouched over the years resulting in

an attractive combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and

Baroque architecture, of which the high altar and dome are

particularly beautiful elements. One of the most famous

aspects of the Cathedral’s Basilica is the impressive

Botafumeiro.

You should not finish exploring the cathedral without visiting its rooftop which

boasts panoramic views over the city; we recommend an audio or guided tour of

this magnificent building to make the most of your trip.

In addition to the religious significance of Santiago de Compostela, the town also

has a lively historic centre with shops, bars and restaurants. We suggest visiting

the colourful ‘Mercado de Abastos’, the city’s main traditional food market,

where you can find local delicacies. Make sure you try some of the typical

seafood and fish dishes during your visit, Galicia is praised throughout Spain for

its history as a primary fishing region, and the traditional shellfish and octopus

specialities are delicious!

Above all, Santiago is a great starting point for discovering Galicia, Spain’s

greenest region and one of its most beautiful. With plenty to offer in terms of

beaches, nature, and charming villages, it is well worth using Santiago as a base

while you discover this diverse landscape.

de Compostelaantiago�

de Compostela

4 5

©www.santiagoturismo.com

©www.santiagoturismo.com

Sevillabienvenida

Sevilla is one of Andalucia’s largest and liveliest cities,

and an excellent spot for any culture vultures looking to explore tradi-

tional Spanish customs and architecture during a city break. A fantastic

option for discovering some of Spain’s �nest �amenco dancers, and

home to some of the best preserved examples of Mudéjar architecture, it

is di�cult not to be enamoured by Sevilla.

6 7

For amateur photographers, make sure to visit the Triana

Bridge which crosses the Guadalquivir River and offers

fantastic city views.

The nearby town of Carmona, where Sevilla’s closest Parador

is located, is an excellent choice for those wishing to explore

Sevilla from a peaceful relaxing base. The town has a very

long history having been occupied by a number of different

communities. A Roman necropolis is one of the town’s most

fascinating historical features, as is the impressive Puerta de

Sevilla Gate. The Arabic influence is undeniable with

Mudéjar architecture scattered around the city and the

crowning glory is the Almohad King Don Pedro Fortress, the

highest point in the town, which now houses the Parador de

Carmona.

A city of music, dance, history, and beautiful architecture,

there is always something to see here. With its mild winter

climate and warm Spring and Autumn weather, Sevilla is a

great choice for an exciting city break in both summer and

winter.

Sevilla has long been associated with flamenco and visitors to

the city have an abundance of opportunities to see live

flamenco shows with tablaos (flamenco performance spaces,

taken from the Spanish word ‘tablado’ meaning ‘floorboards’)

and venues hosting events around the city. The largest venue

is El Palacio Andaluz, a refurbished warehouse with theatre

style seating that hosts two shows each day. If you are looking

for a more intimate setting with improvised performances,

then we recommend exploring the local flamenco bars.

Featuring free music and dancing, these bars encourage

guests to join in with the action!

No trip to Sevilla is complete without a visit to the majestic

Alcazar Palace. A former 10th century Arabic fortress, the

Alcazar was rebuilt by Peter the Cruel as a royal residence and

was famously the site of King Charles V’s marriage to Isabella of

Portugal. The traditional Moorish arches, intricate stonework,

and typical Mudéjar-style tiling and mosaics create a colourful

interior. The encompassing gardens are also a marvel with

verdant displays surrounding a number of charming patios,

many of which are landscaped around pretty water features.

Today the upper section of the Real Alcazar is still used by the

Spanish Royal family as the official royal residence in Sevilla.

We recommend bookings tickets in advance

(www.alcazarsevilla.org).

evilla�A vibrant city, full of

Moorish charm and characterThe Alcazar

Madrid mosaic in

Plaza de Espana,

Sevilla

The Parador de Carmona

Sevillabienvenida

Sevilla is one of Andalucia’s largest and liveliest cities,

and an excellent spot for any culture vultures looking to explore tradi-

tional Spanish customs and architecture during a city break. A fantastic

option for discovering some of Spain’s �nest �amenco dancers, and

home to some of the best preserved examples of Mudéjar architecture, it

is di�cult not to be enamoured by Sevilla.

6 7

For amateur photographers, make sure to visit the Triana

Bridge which crosses the Guadalquivir River and offers

fantastic city views.

The nearby town of Carmona, where Sevilla’s closest Parador

is located, is an excellent choice for those wishing to explore

Sevilla from a peaceful relaxing base. The town has a very

long history having been occupied by a number of different

communities. A Roman necropolis is one of the town’s most

fascinating historical features, as is the impressive Puerta de

Sevilla Gate. The Arabic influence is undeniable with

Mudéjar architecture scattered around the city and the

crowning glory is the Almohad King Don Pedro Fortress, the

highest point in the town, which now houses the Parador de

Carmona.

A city of music, dance, history, and beautiful architecture,

there is always something to see here. With its mild winter

climate and warm Spring and Autumn weather, Sevilla is a

great choice for an exciting city break in both summer and

winter.

Sevilla has long been associated with flamenco and visitors to

the city have an abundance of opportunities to see live

flamenco shows with tablaos (flamenco performance spaces,

taken from the Spanish word ‘tablado’ meaning ‘floorboards’)

and venues hosting events around the city. The largest venue

is El Palacio Andaluz, a refurbished warehouse with theatre

style seating that hosts two shows each day. If you are looking

for a more intimate setting with improvised performances,

then we recommend exploring the local flamenco bars.

Featuring free music and dancing, these bars encourage

guests to join in with the action!

No trip to Sevilla is complete without a visit to the majestic

Alcazar Palace. A former 10th century Arabic fortress, the

Alcazar was rebuilt by Peter the Cruel as a royal residence and

was famously the site of King Charles V’s marriage to Isabella of

Portugal. The traditional Moorish arches, intricate stonework,

and typical Mudéjar-style tiling and mosaics create a colourful

interior. The encompassing gardens are also a marvel with

verdant displays surrounding a number of charming patios,

many of which are landscaped around pretty water features.

Today the upper section of the Real Alcazar is still used by the

Spanish Royal family as the official royal residence in Sevilla.

We recommend bookings tickets in advance

(www.alcazarsevilla.org).

evilla�A vibrant city, full of

Moorish charm and characterThe Alcazar

Madrid mosaic in

Plaza de Espana,

Sevilla

The Parador de Carmona

This beautiful castle was built by Wilfred the Hairy (Wifredo el Velloso) in 886 and

has accommodated some of Spain’s most prestigious Royal families.

The Parador de Sigüenza is one of the most traditional castle designs

within the network; however the building was badly damaged during

numerous wars, so the building you see today was extensively restored so

that guests can experience the building in all its former glory!

The castle is so rich in history and boasts such fantastic

panoramic views that guests often do not want to leave, in

fact one such guest seems to have refused to do so. Room 712

is rumoured to house a particularly noisy ghost who has

made his presence known to many guests and staff through-

out the years.

There have been dozens of accounts of paranormal apparitions,

often of a gentleman dressed in medieval clothing.

The most frequent indication of his presence is a series of

loud noises similar to the sound of furniture being moved,

and on several occasions members of staff have discovered

furniture dragged to the centre of this unoccupied room.

Originally a Moorish building, Sigüenza’s castle was seized

by Bernard of Argén, the town’s first Bishop, on behalf of

the Spanish and converted into a Bishop’s palace. In

subsequent years, the castle-palace was occupied by many

members of the Spanish royal family.

Most famously the castle was used to imprison Blanche of

Bourbon (Queen of Castile) by her husband Peter the Cruel so

that he could court his mistress. This upset many of his

subjects; local townsfolk and knights attempted to storm the

castle to free her. They were ultimately unsuccessful and

years later the Queen was rumoured to have been assassi-

nated on Peter’s orders.

To mark the town’s significance in Blanche of Bourbon’s

imprisonment, locals dress up in period costume during

Sigüenza’s annual medieval festival and stage their very own

storming of the castle! If you wish to take part, or simply

witness this fascinating event, be sure to travel to the region

within the first fortnight of July*. On some Saturdays

throughout Spring and Autumn, those travelling by train

between Madrid and Sigüenza are treated to on-board

medieval entertainment, with troubadours, stilt-walkers,

and jugglers all showcasing their talents.

*at time of publication, 2015 dates have not yet been determined for the medieval festival.

One of the spookiest stories is the account of a security guard

who was hired to patrol the corridors when the Parador was

closed to the public for a short while. The guard was

accompanied on these walks by his trusty guard dog

however, whenever the pair passed room 712, the dog

stopped and began barking at the door, this reportedly

happened each night.

For your chance of a paranormal encounter with Cardona’s

longest-staying guest, make sure to ask for room 712 (guests

are not normally offered this room, but if you’re feeling

adventurous, we can ask for you) or a room on the seventh

floor and keep your ears open

bienvenida

8 9

Ghost hunting at the Parador de Cardona!Ghost hunting at the Parador de Cardona!

Storm the Castle of

Sigüenzaand save the Queen!

This beautiful castle was built by Wilfred the Hairy (Wifredo el Velloso) in 886 and

has accommodated some of Spain’s most prestigious Royal families.

The Parador de Sigüenza is one of the most traditional castle designs

within the network; however the building was badly damaged during

numerous wars, so the building you see today was extensively restored so

that guests can experience the building in all its former glory!

The castle is so rich in history and boasts such fantastic

panoramic views that guests often do not want to leave, in

fact one such guest seems to have refused to do so. Room 712

is rumoured to house a particularly noisy ghost who has

made his presence known to many guests and staff through-

out the years.

There have been dozens of accounts of paranormal apparitions,

often of a gentleman dressed in medieval clothing.

The most frequent indication of his presence is a series of

loud noises similar to the sound of furniture being moved,

and on several occasions members of staff have discovered

furniture dragged to the centre of this unoccupied room.

Originally a Moorish building, Sigüenza’s castle was seized

by Bernard of Argén, the town’s first Bishop, on behalf of

the Spanish and converted into a Bishop’s palace. In

subsequent years, the castle-palace was occupied by many

members of the Spanish royal family.

Most famously the castle was used to imprison Blanche of

Bourbon (Queen of Castile) by her husband Peter the Cruel so

that he could court his mistress. This upset many of his

subjects; local townsfolk and knights attempted to storm the

castle to free her. They were ultimately unsuccessful and

years later the Queen was rumoured to have been assassi-

nated on Peter’s orders.

To mark the town’s significance in Blanche of Bourbon’s

imprisonment, locals dress up in period costume during

Sigüenza’s annual medieval festival and stage their very own

storming of the castle! If you wish to take part, or simply

witness this fascinating event, be sure to travel to the region

within the first fortnight of July*. On some Saturdays

throughout Spring and Autumn, those travelling by train

between Madrid and Sigüenza are treated to on-board

medieval entertainment, with troubadours, stilt-walkers,

and jugglers all showcasing their talents.

*at time of publication, 2015 dates have not yet been determined for the medieval festival.

One of the spookiest stories is the account of a security guard

who was hired to patrol the corridors when the Parador was

closed to the public for a short while. The guard was

accompanied on these walks by his trusty guard dog

however, whenever the pair passed room 712, the dog

stopped and began barking at the door, this reportedly

happened each night.

For your chance of a paranormal encounter with Cardona’s

longest-staying guest, make sure to ask for room 712 (guests

are not normally offered this room, but if you’re feeling

adventurous, we can ask for you) or a room on the seventh

floor and keep your ears open

bienvenida

8 9

Ghost hunting at the Parador de Cardona!Ghost hunting at the Parador de Cardona!

Storm the Castle of

Sigüenzaand save the Queen!

pas� & reatments�

Paradors have a whole host of special o�ers for 2015 and in anticipation of our

most frequently asked question - what is the best way to book? - here is our take.

So let’s begin with the dreaded standard rate. This is

essentially the full price and the most you will ever pay.  The

good news is that there are almost always offers available for

those booking early and it’s our job to help you find the best

of them.

First of all, there is the ‘Promotional Rate’ which is open to

everyone and is valid on all board bases.   This rate is

dynamic, meaning it can fluctuate throughout the year, and

the price for a particular night may go up as the hotel gets

busier.

The next three offers all represent a further discount on the

Promotional Rate so please keep reading if you like the

sound of that. 18-30 year olds or those aged 55 or over can

take advantage of the Young Persons and Golden Days offers

respectively, which give a further discount on the Promo-

tional Rate.

Booking two nights or more in the same Parador and opting

for Half Board is a way to get even better value for money so

be sure to look out for ‘Minimum 2-Night Offer.’

There is also the Five Night Card, a fixed price package for 5

nights’ Bed & Breakfast accommodation.  Priced at €575 (or

£458, subject to currency fluctuation), it also gets you a 20%

discount on the price of lunch or dinner.

Supplements do apply at some Paradors but this package

often works out to be the best way to book.

Paradors also have a selection of superbly-priced 3 and 7

night pre-designed routes which open up different parts of

the country.  They can be booked on both B & B and Half

Board basis. ‘Rutas’ always begin on a Sunday and there is no

flexibility with the order of Paradors, but if these fit in with

your plans then they are certainly a very economical way of

booking Paradors.

As well as the more general offers above, Paradors often put

on special promotions which can undercut other rates and

which sometimes include tickets to local museums and

attractions.  These promotions come and go during the year

and we always research these when quoting over the phone.

There is also the Amigos loyalty scheme which is free to join

and which frequently opens up beneficial rates. Alterna-

tively, sign up to our email newsletter (12 editions annually)

to receive information about new offers and promotions.

Keytel International has over 30 years’ experience in helping

our clients navigate their way through all of these options.

We hope this guide is useful but if you are in any doubt then

we’re always happy to help over the phone or by email.

Enjoy some pampering and rejuvenate yourself on

a weekend away or include a day of complete R&R

during a longer holiday. Enjoy the saunas and

Jacuzzis, the steam rooms and the indoor pools.

What better way to shake off the aches of a long

drive with a back massage, or to return home

fresh-faced after an intense facial and a lap of the

salubrious facilities ?

Swimming PoolsRemarkably, over 50 Paradors now have swimming pools

and some have several. So if a dip on a warm day is crucial

to your holiday plans, you have a tremendously varied

range of properties to choose from, including the city

centre setting of the historic Parador de Zamora and the

panoramic pools of the modern Parador in Cádiz which

overlook the bay.

When ambient temperature reaches high enough to make

even a Spaniard sweat, they open their outdoor pools; and

the further south you head the earlier they open each year.

Our website shows these dates to help your planning.

bienvenida

10 11

The Parador Offers - Explained Did you know that there are 9 Paradors with wonderful spa facilities and

specialist treatments?

Good luck planning your

Parador trip for 2015!

Alcalá de Henares, Cádiz, CoriasCruz de Tejeda, El Saler, La Granja

Lorca, Santo Estevo, Vielha...

pas� & reatments�

Paradors have a whole host of special o�ers for 2015 and in anticipation of our

most frequently asked question - what is the best way to book? - here is our take.

So let’s begin with the dreaded standard rate. This is

essentially the full price and the most you will ever pay.  The

good news is that there are almost always offers available for

those booking early and it’s our job to help you find the best

of them.

First of all, there is the ‘Promotional Rate’ which is open to

everyone and is valid on all board bases.   This rate is

dynamic, meaning it can fluctuate throughout the year, and

the price for a particular night may go up as the hotel gets

busier.

The next three offers all represent a further discount on the

Promotional Rate so please keep reading if you like the

sound of that. 18-30 year olds or those aged 55 or over can

take advantage of the Young Persons and Golden Days offers

respectively, which give a further discount on the Promo-

tional Rate.

Booking two nights or more in the same Parador and opting

for Half Board is a way to get even better value for money so

be sure to look out for ‘Minimum 2-Night Offer.’

There is also the Five Night Card, a fixed price package for 5

nights’ Bed & Breakfast accommodation.  Priced at €575 (or

£458, subject to currency fluctuation), it also gets you a 20%

discount on the price of lunch or dinner.

Supplements do apply at some Paradors but this package

often works out to be the best way to book.

Paradors also have a selection of superbly-priced 3 and 7

night pre-designed routes which open up different parts of

the country.  They can be booked on both B & B and Half

Board basis. ‘Rutas’ always begin on a Sunday and there is no

flexibility with the order of Paradors, but if these fit in with

your plans then they are certainly a very economical way of

booking Paradors.

As well as the more general offers above, Paradors often put

on special promotions which can undercut other rates and

which sometimes include tickets to local museums and

attractions.  These promotions come and go during the year

and we always research these when quoting over the phone.

There is also the Amigos loyalty scheme which is free to join

and which frequently opens up beneficial rates. Alterna-

tively, sign up to our email newsletter (12 editions annually)

to receive information about new offers and promotions.

Keytel International has over 30 years’ experience in helping

our clients navigate their way through all of these options.

We hope this guide is useful but if you are in any doubt then

we’re always happy to help over the phone or by email.

Enjoy some pampering and rejuvenate yourself on

a weekend away or include a day of complete R&R

during a longer holiday. Enjoy the saunas and

Jacuzzis, the steam rooms and the indoor pools.

What better way to shake off the aches of a long

drive with a back massage, or to return home

fresh-faced after an intense facial and a lap of the

salubrious facilities ?

Swimming PoolsRemarkably, over 50 Paradors now have swimming pools

and some have several. So if a dip on a warm day is crucial

to your holiday plans, you have a tremendously varied

range of properties to choose from, including the city

centre setting of the historic Parador de Zamora and the

panoramic pools of the modern Parador in Cádiz which

overlook the bay.

When ambient temperature reaches high enough to make

even a Spaniard sweat, they open their outdoor pools; and

the further south you head the earlier they open each year.

Our website shows these dates to help your planning.

bienvenida

10 11

The Parador Offers - Explained Did you know that there are 9 Paradors with wonderful spa facilities and

specialist treatments?

Good luck planning your

Parador trip for 2015!

Alcalá de Henares, Cádiz, CoriasCruz de Tejeda, El Saler, La Granja

Lorca, Santo Estevo, Vielha...

Andalucia, for example, is famous for the generous free portions offered in its tapas bars when ordering a drink and people often joke that it is worth buying a drink just for the free meal. The Basque Country is also famed for its own version of tapas known as ‘pinxos’ (pinchos). These tapas are typically served on toothpicks and often feature bread as a base. San Sebastian’s old town is particularly famous for its wealth of tapas bars which people often visit, each in turn, as a dining version of a pub crawl.

Galicia is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes thanks to its coastal location with one of the most popular delicacies being polbo á feira or pulpo a la gallega, a simple dish consisting of cooked octopus served with salt, paprika and olive oil.

In inland Spain, game and red meat feature heavily in local delicacies due to the rural and mountainous landscape. Regional specialities hark back to traditions of shepherding and livestock farming and as such, roast lamb, beef, pork and even ox can be found frequently on menus in these areas.

Excellent transportation of fish from the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines enables restaurants in central locations like Madrid to present a wide selection of hot and cold dishes. Whilst in Madrid, do not forget to try Cocido Madrileño, a regional stew made with meat, chickpeas and vegetables.

Spain’s most famous dish is without doubt paella. This delicious rice dish has become the standard fare in most tourist spots around Spain, however paella itself is autono-mous to Valencia where Moorish innovations in the 8th century led to a boom in rice production and, as a conse-quence, gave birth to Spain’s national dish.

It is no secret that Spanish cuisine is now amongst the best in the world, made up of Mediterra-nean dishes laden with �sh and fresh vegetables, and good quality meats and pulses from the plains and mountains. However, it is only in recent years that Spanish restaurants have really achieved the highest international recognition for their culinary expertise.

This surge in popularity and the prestige of Spanish cuisine has been undoubtedly helped in part by the celebrated Ferran Adrià (well-known for his former El Bulli restaurant) and an abundance of chefs in Spain whose efforts have revolutionised Spanish cooking with innovative and elaborate twists on traditional dishes. As a result, Spain is now home to some of the world’s finest Michelin-graded restaurants.

Some of Spain’s most prestigious restaurants and chefs include:

Spain is also making a name for itself in the world of desserts with chefs such as Carles Mampel, owner of the patisserie and chocolate shop ‘Bubo’ (in Barcelona), earning critical acclaim. Similarly, Jordi Roca (of El Celler de Can Roca) was voted World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2014.

However, if you are not a fan of the Michelin-starred, high-end fare with the higher prices associated with these restaurants, Spain still offers you plenty of dining choices from the rustic to the refined. Products such as chorizo, Manchego cheese, and serrano ham have become staples in supermarkets worldwide and continue to be used in popular offerings in Spanish eateries, but with such an interesting gastronomic landscape featuring distinctive regional differences in cuisine, there is so much more to be tasted!

Parador restaurants often use locally sourced products and, as such, many local specialities and regional dishes can be found on their menus, offering you the opportunity to sample authentic Spanish cuisine and traditional recipes of the region. In addition to these delicious menu options, Paradors also provide more mainstream choices as well as a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Paradors have converted some of their cafeterias and restaurants to gastrobars and Enxeibres - less formal, traditional restaurant experiences with a range of lighter dishes and salads as well as some 3-course menu options. These are proving popular with people who prefer a lighter dinner, particularly after a wonderful Parador buffet breakfast and a decent lunch, and for those looking to sample several varied dishes. However you can still enjoy a wonderful, formal dining experience in the grand restaurants of the majority of Paradors.

- Arzak in San Sebastian (chef Juan Mari Arzak) - Martín Berasategui’s restaurant in Guipúzcoa (Basque Country) - Carme Ruscalleda’s restaurant in Sant Pau (near Barcelona)- Akelarre in San Sebastian (chef Pedro Subijana)- El Celler de Can Roca in Girona which is owned by the Roca brothers and has been ranked amongst the top 10 restaurants in the world.

From a religious and historical point of view, the 5th Centenary of the birth of

Saint Teresa of Avila (2015) is a very important event for Catholic Spain.

Saint Teresa (also known as Teresa de Jesus) was a very prominent Carmelite nun in the 16th century.

To commemorate the 5th centenary of the birth of St Teresa, which is to be held in the city of Ávila in 2015, the Teresian cities

have joined together under the name of Huellas de Teresa de Jesús (The Trail of St Teresa of Jesus), an idea based around

culture and heritage, to announce the work and legacy of the so-declared Doctor of the Church through the dissemination of

the many convents she founded.

St Teresa’s trail takes in seventeen places. Her journey began in 1567, lasted

20 years and her travels took her to Ávila, Medina del Campo, Malagón, Valladolid,

Toledo, Pastrana, Salamanca, Alba de Tormes, Segovia, Beas de Segura, Seville,

Caravaca de la Cruz, Villanueva de la Jara, Palencia, Soria, Granada and Burgos.

Pope Francis said on 15th October 2014 (Saint Teresa's feast day) that she is

‘perennially relevant’ and that she taught that ‘the path to God is the path to

loving each other'.

(Information taken from www.huellasdeteresa.com/en)

These exciting new routes start from just £118 per person with breakfast included for 3 nights and £274 for 7 nights

(prices are subject to currency fluctuation). All packages start on a Sunday, enabling Paradors to offer such tremendous

prices for stays in some of the most historically-significant cities in Spain: Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca, and Avila.

pain’s� RESTAURANTSSanta Teresa of Avila, or Teresa de Jesus

at the top of the world...

And what about Parador restaurants?

Paradors have created two brand new Rutas in order to mark the event - Saint Teresa of Avila Routes – 3 and 7 night accommodation packages through Spain’s heartland.

New route ideas for 2015:

bienvenida

12 13

Keytel International UK CENTRAL RESERVATIONS OFFICEThe Foundry, 156 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8ENTelephone: 020 7953 3020 info@keytel.co.uk www.keytel.co.uk

Andalucia, for example, is famous for the generous free portions offered in its tapas bars when ordering a drink and people often joke that it is worth buying a drink just for the free meal. The Basque Country is also famed for its own version of tapas known as ‘pinxos’ (pinchos). These tapas are typically served on toothpicks and often feature bread as a base. San Sebastian’s old town is particularly famous for its wealth of tapas bars which people often visit, each in turn, as a dining version of a pub crawl.

Galicia is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes thanks to its coastal location with one of the most popular delicacies being polbo á feira or pulpo a la gallega, a simple dish consisting of cooked octopus served with salt, paprika and olive oil.

In inland Spain, game and red meat feature heavily in local delicacies due to the rural and mountainous landscape. Regional specialities hark back to traditions of shepherding and livestock farming and as such, roast lamb, beef, pork and even ox can be found frequently on menus in these areas.

Excellent transportation of fish from the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines enables restaurants in central locations like Madrid to present a wide selection of hot and cold dishes. Whilst in Madrid, do not forget to try Cocido Madrileño, a regional stew made with meat, chickpeas and vegetables.

Spain’s most famous dish is without doubt paella. This delicious rice dish has become the standard fare in most tourist spots around Spain, however paella itself is autono-mous to Valencia where Moorish innovations in the 8th century led to a boom in rice production and, as a conse-quence, gave birth to Spain’s national dish.

It is no secret that Spanish cuisine is now amongst the best in the world, made up of Mediterra-nean dishes laden with �sh and fresh vegetables, and good quality meats and pulses from the plains and mountains. However, it is only in recent years that Spanish restaurants have really achieved the highest international recognition for their culinary expertise.

This surge in popularity and the prestige of Spanish cuisine has been undoubtedly helped in part by the celebrated Ferran Adrià (well-known for his former El Bulli restaurant) and an abundance of chefs in Spain whose efforts have revolutionised Spanish cooking with innovative and elaborate twists on traditional dishes. As a result, Spain is now home to some of the world’s finest Michelin-graded restaurants.

Some of Spain’s most prestigious restaurants and chefs include:

Spain is also making a name for itself in the world of desserts with chefs such as Carles Mampel, owner of the patisserie and chocolate shop ‘Bubo’ (in Barcelona), earning critical acclaim. Similarly, Jordi Roca (of El Celler de Can Roca) was voted World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2014.

However, if you are not a fan of the Michelin-starred, high-end fare with the higher prices associated with these restaurants, Spain still offers you plenty of dining choices from the rustic to the refined. Products such as chorizo, Manchego cheese, and serrano ham have become staples in supermarkets worldwide and continue to be used in popular offerings in Spanish eateries, but with such an interesting gastronomic landscape featuring distinctive regional differences in cuisine, there is so much more to be tasted!

Parador restaurants often use locally sourced products and, as such, many local specialities and regional dishes can be found on their menus, offering you the opportunity to sample authentic Spanish cuisine and traditional recipes of the region. In addition to these delicious menu options, Paradors also provide more mainstream choices as well as a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Paradors have converted some of their cafeterias and restaurants to gastrobars and Enxeibres - less formal, traditional restaurant experiences with a range of lighter dishes and salads as well as some 3-course menu options. These are proving popular with people who prefer a lighter dinner, particularly after a wonderful Parador buffet breakfast and a decent lunch, and for those looking to sample several varied dishes. However you can still enjoy a wonderful, formal dining experience in the grand restaurants of the majority of Paradors.

- Arzak in San Sebastian (chef Juan Mari Arzak) - Martín Berasategui’s restaurant in Guipúzcoa (Basque Country) - Carme Ruscalleda’s restaurant in Sant Pau (near Barcelona)- Akelarre in San Sebastian (chef Pedro Subijana)- El Celler de Can Roca in Girona which is owned by the Roca brothers and has been ranked amongst the top 10 restaurants in the world.

From a religious and historical point of view, the 5th Centenary of the birth of

Saint Teresa of Avila (2015) is a very important event for Catholic Spain.

Saint Teresa (also known as Teresa de Jesus) was a very prominent Carmelite nun in the 16th century.

To commemorate the 5th centenary of the birth of St Teresa, which is to be held in the city of Ávila in 2015, the Teresian cities

have joined together under the name of Huellas de Teresa de Jesús (The Trail of St Teresa of Jesus), an idea based around

culture and heritage, to announce the work and legacy of the so-declared Doctor of the Church through the dissemination of

the many convents she founded.

St Teresa’s trail takes in seventeen places. Her journey began in 1567, lasted

20 years and her travels took her to Ávila, Medina del Campo, Malagón, Valladolid,

Toledo, Pastrana, Salamanca, Alba de Tormes, Segovia, Beas de Segura, Seville,

Caravaca de la Cruz, Villanueva de la Jara, Palencia, Soria, Granada and Burgos.

Pope Francis said on 15th October 2014 (Saint Teresa's feast day) that she is

‘perennially relevant’ and that she taught that ‘the path to God is the path to

loving each other'.

(Information taken from www.huellasdeteresa.com/en)

These exciting new routes start from just £118 per person with breakfast included for 3 nights and £274 for 7 nights

(prices are subject to currency fluctuation). All packages start on a Sunday, enabling Paradors to offer such tremendous

prices for stays in some of the most historically-significant cities in Spain: Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca, and Avila.

pain’s� RESTAURANTSSanta Teresa of Avila, or Teresa de Jesus

at the top of the world...

And what about Parador restaurants?

Paradors have created two brand new Rutas in order to mark the event - Saint Teresa of Avila Routes – 3 and 7 night accommodation packages through Spain’s heartland.

New route ideas for 2015:

bienvenida

12 13

Keytel International UK CENTRAL RESERVATIONS OFFICEThe Foundry, 156 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8ENTelephone: 020 7953 3020 info@keytel.co.uk www.keytel.co.uk

For a truly medieval experience, you must head to Segovia. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1985, the city features structures built

as far back as the 1st century.

egovia�egovia�

This would be a caption

bienvenida

14 15

Segovia

Royal roots and Roman archesRoyal roots and Roman arches

Walking through the city’s old quarter, the Roman, Moor-

ish, and Gothic architectural influences can be seen in many

buildings, and its crowning glory is the Roman aqueduct.

Arguably one of Castile and León’s most recognisable

attractions and an impressive engineering feat standing at

nearly 30m tall with more than 160 arches, the aqueduct

serves as the entrance to the city’s old quarter.

The history and medieval atmosphere are undeniably

Segovia’s main attractions and permeate every inch of the

city that played such an important role in helping to create

the Spain we know and love today. During the Middle Ages it

was the court residence of the Trastamaras family whose

descendants include Isabelle I (Queen of Castile) and Charles

V (Holy Roman Emperor), and who succeeded in uniting

many of the Spanish kingdoms. Many of the medieval

buildings in Segovia are former ancestral homes of Spanish

nobility.

The Alcázar castle is a magnificent sight, offering beautiful

views of the city, and steeped in a fascinating history. Built in

the 12th century atop a rocky crag at the meeting point of the

Eresma and Clamores rivers, it provided an ideal military

base. Since its construction it has played a prominent role in

royal history, and was important in the rise of Queen Isabella

I who retreated to the palace after her father’s death (Henry

IV). Its fairy-tale style design is rumoured to be one of the

inspirations for Walt Disney’s Cinderella castle.

There is an abundance of beautiful buildings to visit

including the awe-inspiring cathedral known as the ‘lady of

all cathedrals’. Standing tall above the surrounding rooftops,

construction on this majestic project began in the 16th

century and has been added to over the years, resulting in a

charming mix of Gothic, Baroque and Neo-classical architec-

ture.

The cathedral also exhibits some important religious

artwork dating back centuries. In the Caballeros neigh-

bourhood, you can find a large number of Romanesque

churches, such as the San Juan de los Caballeros church

which now houses a collection of Basque artist Zuloaga’s

artwork.

Other important attractions in Segovia include the San

Antonio el Real monastery, once the summer residence of

King Henry IV, displaying some of the best examples of

Mudéjar coffered ceilings. For literature lovers, you can

fit in a visit to the House-Museum of Antonio Machado

which is dedicated to the writer’s work. Segovia has a

fascinating literary history and it is rumoured to be the

location where the very first book was printed in Spain.

Each September, Segovia hosts the Hay Festival celebrat-

ing literature with workshops, debates, and exhibitions,

and an invasion of writers from all over the world

descends on the city.

One of the best viewpoints to see this beautiful city in all

its glory is the Parador de Segovia. Enjoy its breath taking

views of the city’s skyline and relax by the Parador’s pool

with this panoramic backdrop.

Only 11km from Segovia is the Royal Palace of La Granja

de San Ildefonso, a magnificent palace built in the style of

Versailles by Pedro V in 1721. Its carefully manicured

gardens and unmistakeable Baroque style create a little

slice of France right in the centre of Spain. You can enjoy a

leisurely stroll through the gardens and on some summer

evenings, fountain displays with lights and music are laid

on. The Parador de La Granja occupies the Casa de

Infantes and the Cuartel de Guardia de Corps buildings

which form part of the Royal Summer Residence and

offers guests a truly regal stay.

Great views from the Parador’s restaurant

The Alcazar

The Alcazar

Segovia’s aqueduct©TurismodeSegovia

©TurismodeSegovia

©TurismodeSegovia

For a truly medieval experience, you must head to Segovia. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1985, the city features structures built

as far back as the 1st century.

egovia�egovia�

This would be a caption

bienvenida

14 15

Segovia

Royal roots and Roman archesRoyal roots and Roman arches

Walking through the city’s old quarter, the Roman, Moor-

ish, and Gothic architectural influences can be seen in many

buildings, and its crowning glory is the Roman aqueduct.

Arguably one of Castile and León’s most recognisable

attractions and an impressive engineering feat standing at

nearly 30m tall with more than 160 arches, the aqueduct

serves as the entrance to the city’s old quarter.

The history and medieval atmosphere are undeniably

Segovia’s main attractions and permeate every inch of the

city that played such an important role in helping to create

the Spain we know and love today. During the Middle Ages it

was the court residence of the Trastamaras family whose

descendants include Isabelle I (Queen of Castile) and Charles

V (Holy Roman Emperor), and who succeeded in uniting

many of the Spanish kingdoms. Many of the medieval

buildings in Segovia are former ancestral homes of Spanish

nobility.

The Alcázar castle is a magnificent sight, offering beautiful

views of the city, and steeped in a fascinating history. Built in

the 12th century atop a rocky crag at the meeting point of the

Eresma and Clamores rivers, it provided an ideal military

base. Since its construction it has played a prominent role in

royal history, and was important in the rise of Queen Isabella

I who retreated to the palace after her father’s death (Henry

IV). Its fairy-tale style design is rumoured to be one of the

inspirations for Walt Disney’s Cinderella castle.

There is an abundance of beautiful buildings to visit

including the awe-inspiring cathedral known as the ‘lady of

all cathedrals’. Standing tall above the surrounding rooftops,

construction on this majestic project began in the 16th

century and has been added to over the years, resulting in a

charming mix of Gothic, Baroque and Neo-classical architec-

ture.

The cathedral also exhibits some important religious

artwork dating back centuries. In the Caballeros neigh-

bourhood, you can find a large number of Romanesque

churches, such as the San Juan de los Caballeros church

which now houses a collection of Basque artist Zuloaga’s

artwork.

Other important attractions in Segovia include the San

Antonio el Real monastery, once the summer residence of

King Henry IV, displaying some of the best examples of

Mudéjar coffered ceilings. For literature lovers, you can

fit in a visit to the House-Museum of Antonio Machado

which is dedicated to the writer’s work. Segovia has a

fascinating literary history and it is rumoured to be the

location where the very first book was printed in Spain.

Each September, Segovia hosts the Hay Festival celebrat-

ing literature with workshops, debates, and exhibitions,

and an invasion of writers from all over the world

descends on the city.

One of the best viewpoints to see this beautiful city in all

its glory is the Parador de Segovia. Enjoy its breath taking

views of the city’s skyline and relax by the Parador’s pool

with this panoramic backdrop.

Only 11km from Segovia is the Royal Palace of La Granja

de San Ildefonso, a magnificent palace built in the style of

Versailles by Pedro V in 1721. Its carefully manicured

gardens and unmistakeable Baroque style create a little

slice of France right in the centre of Spain. You can enjoy a

leisurely stroll through the gardens and on some summer

evenings, fountain displays with lights and music are laid

on. The Parador de La Granja occupies the Casa de

Infantes and the Cuartel de Guardia de Corps buildings

which form part of the Royal Summer Residence and

offers guests a truly regal stay.

Great views from the Parador’s restaurant

The Alcazar

The Alcazar

Segovia’s aqueduct©TurismodeSegovia

©TurismodeSegovia

©TurismodeSegovia