Official UK partner to the Paradors, Pousadas, Pestana Hotels & Resorts,
Teritoria, and European Hotels Collection. Keytours International,
formerly Keytel International, your agent in the UK.
Medieval Convent (4*)
Take a trip to Plasencia and step back in time to the 15th century; everything is where you would expect it to be. In the old quarter of the town you will find a rather spectacular looking monastery next to an equally beautiful cathedral and both are situated on the main square right at the heart of the town. Today the former 15th century monastery houses the remarkable Parador de Plasencia. The Parador has been beautifully preserved so as to retain the atmosphere and memory of its original use. Upon entering the grand reception area you will be greeted with flagstone floors and amazing huge stone and brick archways which elicit a light, airy and spacious feeling. Walking around each corner will unveil an architectural feat, from the freestanding staircase, to the intricately bricked vaulted ceiling. Nothing has been disturbed but instead the Parador de Plasencia has cleverly managed to enhance the monastery by introducing some modern touches to the building, such as a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and an underground garage (with its very own car lift!) There is no jarring between authentic and contemporary design, which ensures the Parador remains a tranquil environment in which you can relax and unwind. Nor has anybody tried to mask over the main features of the monastery, instead features such as the crypt have been made into communal areas for guests to sit and enjoy. By day you can follow in the footsteps of the monks who have walked these paths many times before in a previous era, exploring the cloistered areas, corridors decorated with antique furniture and stone carvings, as well as the outdoor courtyard.
By night, the Parador is subtly lit illustrating its beauty. A good vantage point is the outdoor terrace which overlooks the courtyard gardens, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink whilst soaking up the atmosphere of your surroundings. The Parador bedrooms are in keeping with the theme of the rest of the building; each offer different features including stone fireplaces, wooden ceilings, chandeliers, and stone and brick archways. The restaurant is situated in the old refectory and you can easily imagine what 15th century monks experienced as they dined whilst surrounded by beautiful tiling and stonework. Enjoy a drink in the hidden basement bar (only open certain evenings) which frequently plays jazz music to enhance its relaxing atmosphere.
Keytours tip:
The Parador de Plasencia in all its historic beauty is not out of place in its location. The old quarter also offers the original city walls, albeit now in ruins, and two of the eight original gates to the city including the “Puerta del Sol” or “Sun Gate” and a smaller gate named “Postigo de Santa María” or “Santa María Gate”. Next door to the Parador in the “Plaza Mayor” you will find the stunning Cathedral which features both Gothic and Renaissance styles. In honour of the square’s weekly Tuesday markets which have been running for 800 years, the town celebrates “Marte Mayor” or “Great Tuesday” where vendors and farmers from the region meet together to show off and sell their best products. The fiesta is so highly regarded that it has earned its status as a national tourist attraction. This annual festival is normally held on the first Tuesday in August, but do make sure you check the festival dates before you travel.
For nature lovers, the Sierra de Gata mountains, the La Vera and Las Villuercas areas, and the Siberia Hills not too far away offer fantastic opportunity to enjoy the Spanish countryside. Plasencia is also spectacularly placed for those wishing to visit the Monfragüe National Park, Extremadura's only National Park, and one of Spain's best locations for birdwatching. The park is home to one of the world's largest Black Vultures colonies and you can witness these colossal birds circling the "Gypsy's Jump", a grand rock formation that towers over the heart of the National Park.
Extremadura is famous for its cork, pork and storks so we recommend keeping an eye out for the free-range black pigs and large storks nests which can be spotted throughout your drives through this region.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Restaurant opening times:
Breakfast: 7.30 to 11.00 (Monday to Friday) and 8.00 to 11.00 on weekends
Lunch: 13.45 to 15.45
Dinner: 20.30 to 23.00. It may be possible to arrive up to 22.30 and still enjoy a meal.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.00 until 23.45
Crypt bar is open on Friday and Saturday only from 10.30 to 2.30
Upon entering Plasencia, the Parador may be reached through the Puerta de Coria. At the end of the street you will find yourself in the Plaza de San Vicente Ferrer, where the Parador stands. For guests arriving by car, we recommend following signs to the Parador car park, this is entered at the base of the town and a car lift will take you to the Parador garage.
Underground parking with a daily charge accessed by a car lift (operates from street level with signage to Parador parking).
The western region of Extremadura is a home to jamón, medieval cities, Roman ruins and excellent bird-watching opportunities. The historic Paradors here are beautifully preserved and well placed to explore this region at a leisurely pace.
