Former hunting lodge (3*)
The Parador de Gredos was the very first of the network of Paradors established by the government in 1928 in the idyllic location of at the foot of the Sierra Gredos mountain range on the platform of “Alto del Risquillo”. This Parador offers the perfect getaway spot in a picturesque and secluded area, surrounded by forests and magnificent scenery. Imagine spending the day hiking, fishing or riding in the winter months and returning to an invitingly warm and cosy room, with views across forests and the mountain range to remind you of the exciting day you have had. Or during the summer months, meander through the forests and by the rivers and retire at the end of the day on a terrace with a refreshing drink whilst enjoying the spectacular surroundings.
It is not only the location which makes the Parador de Gredos a special place, in 1978 the Parador was chosen as the location to finalise the Spanish Constitution under the reign of King Juan Carlos. A trip to this Parador will not only enable you to stand where influential figures of Spanish history have stood, but to also see the plaque which commemorates this important and historic event.
The Parador de Gredos was built in typical Castillian style as a royal hunting lodge, with sturdy stone walls and pillars which emulate the rugged terrain of its surroundings. Communal areas are welcoming with large fireplaces proving a cosy atmosphere and decorated in a hunting lodge style with trophies and rifles adorning the walls. The bedrooms, some of which have balconies, are comfortable and invitingly warm in winter, which can be decidedly chilly in this region.
The Parador de Gredos is ideally located to explore the picturesque surroundings of rivers, hiking routes, pine groves and nature reserves, perfect for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike. Not only can you enjoy views of the Sierra de Gredos, but also visible are the Tormes Valley, Sierra de Piedrahita mountains, and Gredos Massif.
It is not only the scenery which is worth exploring, but also a perfectly preserved Roman road called “Puerto del Pico”. The excellent workmanship of this road means it can be found in the same condition today as it was when it was first built two centuries BC. There are many mountain trails which take you to such locations as the “Circo de Gredos” where you can enjoy views of Almanzor Peak and the mountain pool of Laguna Grande de Gredos. A short car journey will take you to the Arenas de San Pedro, a town which not only shares the cultural and historic qualities of Gredos, but is also home to the Águila Caves, known as one of the marvels of the Tiétar Valley. These beautiful caves are made of iron minerals with naves reaching up to 20 metres high. The walls of the caves remain at 20˚C all year round and these humid temperatures result in an impressive array of ever growing stalactites and stalagmites.
Located in Castile and León a mere 170km from Madrid, and 76km from Avila, Gredos is perfectly located to enjoy some of the best that Spain’s countryside has to offer en route to some of the beautiful surrounding cities and towns.
Breakfast is served from 8.00 to 11.00
Lunch is served from 13.30 to 15.45
Dinner is served from 20.00 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 midnight serving bar snacks and lighter dishes.
The Parador is located among luxuriant pine groves within the borders of the mountain town of Navarredonda de Gredos, 60 km from Ávila and 170 Km from Madrid. From Ávila take the N-110 and after 6 Km take the N-502 towards Arenas de San Pedro for 44 km. You will reach the AV-941, and 10 km later the Parador.
The Parador has free exterior parking.