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La Mancha Country House (3*)
The attractive Parador de Manzanares, located just off the main road heading south from Madrid to Andalusia, lies in the heart of the culturally and historically rich region of Castilla-La Mancha. Well-known as the birthplace and setting of the adventures of literary hero Don Quixote, you can still see some of the old windmills made famous by Cervantes’ iconic tale as you traverse the region. The Parador de Manzanares is located near the towns of Ciudad Real and Valdepeñas, between three of the most beautiful nature reserves of Spain: Cabañeros National Park, the Ruidera Lakes, and the Tablas de Daimiel, which is particularly renowned for its remarkable bird life.
With its white walls, Moorish tiles and pantiled roof, the Parador’s architecture functions as a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Surrounded by several gardens full of trees, shrubs and flowers, the hotel also has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a play area for younger guests. Wooden furniture, leather chairs and wrought-iron wall light fixtures feature in both communal areas and guestrooms, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The Parador de Manzanares primary dining area, the Azafrán restaurant, is bright and airy and offers an array of regional and international dishes. Lighter dishes and snacks can be enjoyed in the Paradors spacious bar and cafe area.
Ideally situated, the Parador de Manzanares can be seen as a strategic base for exploring the Castilla-La Mancha region. With its four archaeological parks and the largest number of officially designated nature reserves, nature areas and national parks, this central region of Spain offers a variety of activities for history and nature enthusiasts alike. Many cultural events such as the International Classical Theatre Festival of Almagro as well as the Corpus Christi celebration in Toledo also take place in the region and are worth attending for a valuable insight into Spanish culture and traditions.
Located only 1 kilometre away from the beautiful town of Manzanares, the Parador provides good access to the city centre and its historical monuments. Do not miss the Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion Church and its stunning 16th century façade or the castle of Manzanares in Plaza de San Blas, which still retains parts of its original keep and bailey.
The majestic city of Ciudad Real (Royal City) is less than an hour’s drive away from this Parador. Ciudad Real’s Santa Maria de Prado cathedral, classified as a Spanish Property of Cultural Interest, dates back to the 16th century and has magnificent features on the inside and outside, such as its colourful dome and Baroque altarpiece. The city also offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to become more familiar with Cervantes’ literary hero thanks to the Don Quixote Museum. This interactive museum is comprised of both art and multimedia exhibits so as to provide visitors with a complete and unforgettable experience.
At the centre of the Castilla-La Mancha region lies the municipality of Valdepeñas. Located fewer than than 40 kilometres away from the Parador de Manzanares, this charming little town is mainly known for the wine-growing tradition surrounding it. Indeed, not only do wine lovers have the opportunity to discover the historical aspects of Valdepeñas’ wine-making process in the city’s wine museum, they can also enjoy a taste of the local product in one of the town’s multiple wineries.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Restaurant opening hours:
Breakfast: 7.30 to 10.30
Lunch: 13.30 to 16.30
Dinner: 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 10.30 until midnight offering bar snacks and lighter dishes.
The Parador is 1 km from the town of Manzanares. The town is reached by the Madrid-Andalusia dual carriageway, turning off at km 174. Manzanares is located 63 km. from Ciudad Real, the capital of the province.
Free exterior parking.
Castilla La Mancha, just south of Madrid, is perhaps best known for its Manchego cheese and its depiction in Don Quixote. The region has a number of World Heritage Cities and some lovely Paradors, both historic hotels and ones with fabulous views.
