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 castle-palace (3*)
On first walking into the Parador de Olite, you can be forgiven for thinking that you have been transported back in time to the 14th century and it is no wonder it has been declared a national monument. The castle was originally built in the early 14th century as a summer residence by King Charles III of Navarre, who was known as 'Charles the Noble'. Attention to detail to preserve this castle-palace surpasses all expectations, not just from the architecture but also the décor. So much thought has gone into the furniture of the rooms and communal areas that it is easy for anyone to picture how the castle looked all those years ago; long before it became a Parador. From the suits of armour, wall hangings, portraits, wrought iron chandeliers to the cupboards, beds, tables and designs on the dining room chairs, everything appears to tastefully be from a previous era. This sentiment is also extended to the building with bricked columns, stained glass, and archways.
The Parador de Olite, which occupies just a wing of this magnificent extensive building, showcases both Gothic and Roman influences in its architecture. It is thought of as the most profound example of Gothic non-ecclesiastical architecture in Navarre and also rates highly in Europe as a whole. The Parador features a newer part of the building and a “noble” part of the palace. Bedrooms are decorated in a style that reflects the historic nature of the building with dark wood and regal rugs and textiles featuring heavily. The Parador's restaurant is elegantly designed with high ceilings, arches, exposed brickwork and velvet furnishings all creating an inviting, opulent space.
Keytours tip:
The atmosphere of the Parador de Olite is definitely not lost in the surroundings as the property is set in a medieval town of historical churches, a monastery, and a skyline showcasing spires and turrets which appear to have been frozen in time. Upon leaving the Parador to explore its surroundings, guests will find themselves in narrow streets which lead to the Roman walled area. On your walk, you will encounter the Oliva Monastery, which is occupied by Cistercian monks who pray in the monastery cloister and can be seen walking among the grounds.
Olite is also a draw for those seeking fine wine and culinary delights. Due to the warm sunny climate, a number of wineries, or “bodegas” are situated here and these are open to the general public for tours and sampling. You can ask the Parador’s reception team for recommendations.
If you take a trip to this Parador during the summer months, you may be able to enjoy the Medieval Festival which takes place each August. During this time locals transport visitors back in time to the Middle Ages by dressing up as kings, queens, falconers, magicians, minstrels and archers. There are a range of activities including an old market, medieval music and dancing, archery displays, storytelling, plays, and a range of fantastic food prepared specially by local restaurants.
Olite is conveniently located between Pamplona and Zaragoza and is a fantastic base for those wishing to explore the surrounding towns and this wine region as a whole.
The Parador is closed between 15th October 2024 and 31st May 2026 for refurbishment.
Restaurant opening times:
Breakfast: 7.30 to 11.00
Lunch: 13.30 to 15.00
Dinner: 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 until 23.30.
The Parador Príncipe de Viana backs on to the palace-castle which has been declared a National Monument. On the banks of the river Cidacos, strategically located on the plains, Olite is situated 5 km from Tafalla, and the main access route is the main N-121 road.
The Parador does not have its own car park but guests can park freely around the town.
