HCNA1, Cardona, Catalonia
A unique opportunity to stay in a major, early-medieval castle, this magnificent Parador undoubtedly has the ‘wow’ factor!
Originally built by the marvellously named Wilfred the Hairy in 886, but with construction continuing to the 12th century, this is more of a complex than a military castle and contains a palace, a delightful church, a Princess Tower straight out of fairytale and, of course a ghost! The architecture is Romanesque and Gothic with panoramic views over the valley and the salt mines from which Hairy Wilfred and his heirs derived their enormous wealth.
Rooms are fairly simple with gothic features, some with charming canopy beds, in keeping with the buildings. Furnishings are inspired from the Catalan Medieval style.
The dining room is spectacular, with pointed, stone arches giving an authentic medieval feel. In the hallways, common areas and throughout you’ll find vaulted ceilings, stone walls and atmospheric courtyards to enhance the magical feeling.
There’s a gym and sauna to relax after a hard day’s touring and a wonderful terrace from which to enjoy the views.
37 en-suite rooms including standard doubles / twins, duplex doubles / twins and suites. All rooms have bathtubs with shower over. There are no fully adapted rooms but one has wider doorways and a stool can be supplied to use adjacent to the bath.
Courtyards and terraces with amazing views
Small gym with sauna
On-site parking (NB parking is at the bottom of the ramp leading to the Parador entrance. On arrival you can drive up to the entrance to unload luggage etc)
Elegant, medieval dining room with gothic arches and exposed stonework serving local Catalan specialities.
Breakfast is an extensive buffet with eggs and other hot dishes served to table.
Our team of experts have over 35 years travel expertise in Spain & Portugal.
You’ll receive friendly, personal service from start to finish of the booking process.
Call and speak to Andy, Leonor or Antonio about your dream holiday in Spain & Portugal...
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With 40+ years’ experience designing holidays in Spain & Portugal, our friendly, expert team offers personal service from booking to your return. While away, you’ll have ground support from local agents.
Every trip is tailored to your budget and needs.
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Discover authentic Spain & Portugal, far from tourist crowds. Stay in charming, trusted places — from castles and palaces to rural guesthouses and Paradores.
Your pack includes maps, guidebook, and touring tips. Plus, our Vamos travel app keeps all your documents and guides in one place.
We’ve been a fully bonded UK tour operator since 1985, so your money and holiday are protected.
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