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 Moorish Fortress (4*)
This imposing citadel was originally built by the Moorish rulers and enlarged by King Pedro of Castile in the 14th century (it is known as the Alcázar del Rey Don Pedro). Since the 1970s it has housed the grand Parador de Carmona which dominates the historic town of Carmona, standing on a ridge overlooking the central plain of Andalusia.
The Parador within the citadel makes every effort to maintain the town’s historic legacy, with a Moorish-style tiled inner courtyard featuring arcades and a fountain (which is beautifully illuminated of an evening), an impressive vaulted dining room, decorated ceilings, antique furnishings, and terraces overlooking the town and the river below. You cannot fail to be impressed by the detail and elegance of the Moorish design which make this one of the finest Paradors to visit.
The rooms are decorated in a classic style to reflect the Parador's history, and superior rooms enjoy views of the plains. The mighty walls of the ancient fortress are best viewed from the hotel’s seasonal outdoor swimming pool which is located lower down in the grounds of the palace, and the Parador’s terrace enjoys superb panoramic views over the surrounding plains. This is a beautiful spot to take in the truly heart-stirring scenery.
Do also consider a walk through the town to get a feel for the stylish Mudejar architecture and the lovely streets through the Jewish quarter. On the outskirts of Carmona you can drive to the ruins of the Roman ampitheatre and a Roman burial ground.
Carmona – known as Carmo to the Romans – was a Moorish stronghold until it was captured in 1247 by Ferdinand III of Castile, who gave the town its motto: ‘As the Morning Star shines in the dawn, so shines Carmona in Andalusia’. The Parador, which is located at the crest of this historical Andalucian town, can be found just 30 km from Seville on the road to Córdoba and makes a great base for visiting both cities.
A couple of places of interest within Carmona itself that are certainly not to be missed include the Roman Necropolis, located just on the outskirts of the town. Here visitors can explore the many burial chambers and tombs, which have been unearthed and meticulously excavated on this site. The Seville Gate that forms part of the town’s surrounding wall and Carmona’s city museum are other places worth visiting. If you are tempted to venture beyond the walled enclosures, then a day spent in Seville is definitely a must. This colourful and exciting city has plenty to offer from its majestic Alcázar, its Gothic cathedral (the third largest in the world) to the variety of flamenco performances which can be found in each corner of the city. It is a must-see for all those who want to submerge themselves in culture and experience real Andalucía.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Breakfast is served from 8.00 to 11.00
Lunch is served from 13.45 to 16.00
Dinner is served from 20.30 to 22.30. It may be possible to arrive up to 22.00 and still enjoy a meal.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.00 to 22.45
Dominating the town, the Parador de Carmona is 30 km from the city of Sevilla but a shorter distance from the airport. The main access to monumental walks around the historical centre is the E-05, Autovía de Andalucía, from Sevilla to Córdoba or vice versa.
There is a large free exterior parking area to the front of the Parador (within the walls of Parador grounds)
Spain's southernmost region is rich in sunshine, culture, beaches and excellent food. Find out why you should visit and which Parador hotels to stay in.
