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Medieval castle (4*)
The Parador de Benavente is named after Ferdinand II, the 12th-century king of León who built the original castle. Much of the old castle was destroyed by Napoleon's forces in 1808 however the 16th-century Caracol Tower, an imposing castle-palace that dominates the town, survived and forms part of the Parador which was opened in 1972.
The building is noted for its coffered ceilings and Castilian brickwork. Paintings, rugs, wooden floors and iron lamp fittings enhance the historic atmosphere. The bedrooms are large and decorated in a classical style, yet still light with large windows. Many rooms benefit from balconies and views over the Parador’s lovely gardens and swimming pool. The pool is open during peak summer dates and is a welcome haven of tranquility and rest after a hot day's exploring. A grassy sun terrace flanks the seasonal outdoor swimming pool where guests can relax amongst the surrounding greenery. The restaurant has a banquet-hall feel to it, keeping in tune with the Parador de Benavente’s history.
The old town of Benavente is one of the key historical settlements in Zamora. Originally occupied by the Swabians during the Roman Empire, it became a centre for minting coins. The most prominent aspect of the town is the Caracol Tower, a 15th century structure that forms part of the Parador de Benavente, and is all that remains of the medieval Castle-Palace that once stood in the Parador’s place. The construction of the castle was commissioned in the 12th century by Ferdinand II of León (the Parador’s namesake). During this period it was used as a meeting point for the noblemen of the region to discuss serious matters. In the 15th and 16th centuries the various Counts of Benavente commissioned extensions of the castle, and it became a Castle-Palace, one of the most celebrated throughout Spain. Through subsequent wars and battles, the property was severely damaged, and left in ruins by the English during the War of Independence, until all that remained was the famous Caracol Tower. The ruins were sold off during the 19th century, and the land became a source to store the surrounding village’s water-supply.
Re-built in the style of a Renaissance Castle-Palace, the Parador is now open to guests who can enjoy the historical surroundings in a luxury environment. A climb to the top of the Parador’s Caracol Tower rewards guests with spectacular views over the surrounding landscape.
Benavente itself is relatively small and as yet undiscovered by many tourists; therefore guests can take in the true beauty of this typical Castilian village. Many aspects of the local architecture are the result of a rich and fascinating history, such as La Piedad Hospital an old pilgrim’s hostel and formerly the home of a Count of Benavente who caused a scandal by hanging a man incorrectly identified as his wife’s lover for the entire village to see. The Benavente Theatre is also a stunning architectural site. Built on the remains of the Santo Domingo Convent, it is a now a primary source of entertainment for locals. Perhaps the most prominent building in the town, besides the Parador itself, is the Santa María del Azoque Church. An imposing 13th century Romanesque structure, the church is famed for its many intricate multi-coloured doors, and features a range of impressive Gothic sculptures. For nature-lovers, the surrounding valleys full of flora and fauna (and up to 12 different species of plants used in medicines) offer many opportunities to explore Zamora’s extensive natural beauty. The nearby Vilafáfila Nature Reserve is home to a large host of lakes and greenery.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Breakfast is served from 7.30 to 10.30
Lunch is served from 13.30 to 16.00
Dinner from 20.30 to 23.00. It may be possible to arrive up to 22.30 and still enjoy a meal.
The Parador is at the end of Paseo Ramón y Cajal, in the spot known as Jardines de la Mota. Located in the centre of the town, the most common access route is the A-6 motorway Madrid-A Coruña, or else from Ourense, Vigo and Pontevedra along the N-630 main road.
A large car park with security barriers is situated to the front of the Parador for guest use.
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.
