Medieval fortified palace (4*)
Surrounded by the beautiful orchards and ravines of the hilly region of La Vera, midway between Salamanca and Cáceres and in the centre of the small town of Jarandilla de la Vera, this beautiful 15th-century fortified palace was once home, for several months, to the Emperor Charles V.
The exterior features of the Parador – which has fine views of the Gredos Mountains – include the turrets, the arcaded parade ground, a garden with children’s play area and a seasonal swimming pool surrounded by olive and orange trees. The charming patio and interior terrace is the perfect spot to relax with a drink and soak up the Parador de Jarandilla's atmosphere.
Inside the Parador's tasteful, traditional furnishings perfectly complement the historic architecture such as a fine stone fireplaces, metal lamps and exposed wooden beams. Bedrooms are airy and comfortable, and some rooms even have four-poster beds and hangings. The Parador's restaurant, with its high ceilings and wooden features, give the impression of dining in a great hall of times past and it serves a variety of local, national and international dishes.
Jarandilla de la Vera is a small town located in Cáceres province. The surrounding area is well known for its spectacular gorges which are an iconic part of La Vera’s landscape. The town is home to a large selection of churches and religious buildings including the convent of San Francisco and the churches of San Agustín and Nuestra Señora de la Torre, the last of which dates back to the 12th and 14th centuries and is built on the rock, protecting it from attack. Interesting features in the town include ancient pottery and some ruins of Celtic settlements. These are located under the former fortress of the Knights Templar (now a local Parish church) and close to the castle. The town is also home to several medieval bridges built in Roman style using materials from the town’s Roman mausoleum.
The annual Broom Festival is one of the town’s most popular events. Every year on 7th December the celebration takes place to honour the Virgin of the Holy Conception and a horseman and Calvary transport of the Virgin through the streets followed by the townsfolk carrying brooms lit as though they are torches. The origins of the festival are unknown, but nevertheless this is a fascinating spectacle for any vistor.
Jarandilla de la Vera is also a perfect base for visiting the nearby Yuste Monastery. Just 15 minutes by car, this beautifully restored monastery dates back to the 14th century and is famous as the place where Holy Roman Emperor Charles V spent his final year in seclusion before his death in 1558. Today the site is open to visitors who wish to learn more about this period of history and enjoy the expansive, peaceful gardens.
Some visitors to the Parador in spring may be lucky enough to view cherry blossoms in the Jerte Valley which bloom for several weeks each year.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Breakfast is served from 7.45 to 11.15
Lunch is served from 13.30 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.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.15 to midnight offering bar snacks and lighter dishes.
From Madrid, take highway 530 (N-V) and exit at Navalmoral de la Mata. Then take the road EX-119 to Jarandilla de la Vera. The Parador is located approximately 215 km from Madrid.
Parking is free of charge at this Parador.
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.