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16th century palace (4* )
Located in the centre of the historic city of Ávila, right in the heart of Castile, the Parador de Ávila was once the Piedras Albas palace. The Parador backs onto the impressive city walls (which include 88 towers), that, along with the cathedral and churches, has earned Ávila its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Ávila is considered to be one of the best conserved Medieval cities in the world and cannot fail to impress you as you approach its majestic walls which extend for 2.5km around the old town.
The Parador de Ávila has its very own fine, castellated tower, a garden, and a magnificent glazed patio, while the interior spaces have an atmosphere of period elegance. The bedrooms are decorated in a contemporary style, but still retain an essence of history with the use of dark woods and original flooring, two of the bedrooms have four-poster beds.
The Parador also features a garden containing archaeological remains, a magnificent glass-roofed courtyard, partitionable function rooms and a cafeteria. In keeping with its surroundings, the interior of Ávila's Parador has a warm and intimate feel creating a very refreshing atmosphere. Its beautiful decorative features include granite and adobe floors, bright colours and spacious rooms. The Parador's restaurant looks onto the gardens, it is a large open dining room with traditional fittings and fixtures and offers a variety of local and international dishes. We recommend pre-booking a table in advance of travel at this Parador.
The city gained importance in the region of Castile from the 11th century when the city walls were erected and in the 12th and 13th centuries when the cathedral and several Romanesque churches were built. It was declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1985 and Ávila today is a popular city to visit, particularly for those heading out west from Madrid. You can stroll along the city walls to enjoy the views of its many monuments and palaces from on high. A selection of good restaurants and cafes in the centre provide a pleasant rest from sightseeing.
Ávila is also an excellent base from which to explore the nearby sites and cities of historic significance such as Segovia, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, El Valle de los Caidos, and Salamanca – which are all within 1 hour’s drive - and Madrid and Toledo, within 90 minute's drive. Key events in the Ávila calendar are the historical pageant of the Ronda de las Leyendas in June, and the Medieval market in September.
Breakfast is served from 7.45 to 11.00
Lunch is served from 13.15 to 16.00
Dinner is served from 20.30 to 23.00. It may be possible to arrive up to 22.30 and still enjoy a meal.
The cafeteria/bar is open from 11.00 to midnight offering drinks and light meals/snacks.
The Parador is located on Calle Marqués de Canales de Chozas, in the historical centre of the city, opposite Plaza de Concepción Arenal. It is reached by entering the city walls through the gate 'Puerta del Carmen'. Ávila is 115 km from Madrid.
Free outdoor parking available and facilities for charging electric vehicles, the cost of which is payable locally.
The largest of Spain's 17 Autonomous Communities, Castilla y León is unsurprisingly home to some of the countries most important cities, historic cultural sites and and 15 Paradors, so you can plan a leisurely itinerary across the region.
