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.
Renaissance palace (4*)
Pontevedra and its Parador offer everything you could possibly wish for from a holiday. Situated on the north western most point of Spain and located at an inner point of the inlet leading to the Atlantic sea, this beautiful 16th century palace is the former home of the Counts of Maceda, and is steeped in history.
The Parador de Pontevedra exudes a feeling of authenticity with many original features and objects to set the scene, whilst the light stone walls create a bright and airy atmosphere. Mirrors, antiques, paintings and candelabras all add to the richness of the atmosphere. Taking pride of place in the reception is the intricately carved sweeping staircase which leads to the upper levels of the Parador where the guest rooms are situated. Rooms are colourful and welcoming with traditional décor befitting the Parador’s history. The restaurant is very much like a welcoming, homely (albeit a little larger!) dining room. For those warmer days and indeed nights, why not take your meals out on the patio where you can enjoy the weather whilst overlooking the beautiful garden, which features a fountain as a centre point surrounded by well-manicured trees and plants. There is also the opportunity to enjoy your meals and drinks on the lawn for a truly ‘summer garden party’ atmosphere. The proximity of the coast means that the Pontevedra Parador is very well equipped to offer delicious, fresh seafood dishes as a local delicacy. This would be a welcome treat after a day of exploring Pontevedra and all the historic delights it has to offer.
The Parador is set in the beautiful old quarter of Pontevedra, ideally located to explore Pontevedra’s historic centre and its monuments such as the Basílica de Santa María la Mayor de Pontevedra. This building is extremely well regarded and was granted the status of small basilica in 1962, by Pope John XXIII. The city has many gems to explore such as the many squares, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal whilst admiring the 16th century architecture. If you wish to explore Pontevedra by night, make your way to La Virgen Peregrina Church, which is beautifully lit once darkness sets in. A trip here during the day will unveil the unusual scallop floor plan of this important church. Another fascinating building in the town is the Monastery of Poio which was built by Benedictine monks and mixes Baroque, classical, austere, and Renaissance styles creating a palatial atmosphere. The city has a long history as a shipyard and actually built the Santa Maria caravel which was captained by the great Christopher Columbus. After exploring the sites of the old quarter, why not take a relaxing walk along the tree lined avenue “Alameda” taking in the view of the waterfront. If you are interested in music, each year the city plays host to the Pontevedra Jazz Festival. There are two stages; one on the Plaza de la Peregrina and the other on the Plaza del Teucro and an array of both well-established artists and new talent congregate in the city to perform incorporating classic jazz rhythms as well as blues and funk. This festival is held in the summer months and varies each year from June to August so make sure to check any dates before travelling.
Restaurant opening times:
Breakfast: 8.00 to 11.00
Lunch: 13.30 to 16.00
Dinner 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 11.00 to 23.30.
The Parador is located in the old quarter of the town, right in the heart of the Rías Baixas. Pontevedra is linked by motorway to the main provincial capitals of Galicia. It is 23 km from Vigo, 55 from Santiago de Compostela and 120 km from A Coruña. Upon reaching Pontevedra from the A-9 motorway, the best exit to take is 'Pontevedra Norte'. Then follow the signs towards 'Puente de Burgo' (the only approach road to the Parador), and after passing a roundabout, you will come to a pedestrian street that leads to the Parador.
There is nearby public parking for a daily charge.
Galicia, a region in the north-west of Spain, is famous for its spectacular Atlantic coastline, excellent seafood and as the destination of the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage. The Paradors here offer a mixture of wonderful natural settings, ocean views and cultural city breaks.
