Description
Parador de Cuenca - 16th century convent (4*)
Overlooking the sheer-sided Huécar Gorge and the famous “casas colgadas” (houses hanging from the rockface), the Parador de Cuenca is spectacularly located in the former Dominican convent of San Pablo opposite the old town. The building forms part of the World Heritage Site that takes in the old quarter of Cuenca. This is one of Spain's gems, a historic cathedral city situated half way between Madrid and the Mediterranean coast.
A metal bridge over the gorge connects Cuenca’s Parador with the old town. From here you can tremendous views up and down the valley and across onto the hanging houses opposite. For most of the year a river slowly snakes down the gorge. With its pale walls, pantiled roofs, its peaceful cloister and its old chapel, the former convent building of the Parador de Cuenca provides an atmospheric stay for the visitor. You cannot fail to sense the authentic ambience of this wonderful, religious monument. The rooms within the Parador are very comfortable, cosy and traditional in style – often with small windows and tiled floors. The bar and restaurant offer splendid service and great local cuisine, the perfect place to spend a relaxing evening. Soak up the atmosphere here and take in the majesty and elegance of this lovely Parador.
The Parador's restaurant - the original refectory - specializes in the local Cuenca cuisine. Enjoy such dishes as Ajomortero (a purée of desalted cod, potato and olive oil). Or try Morteruelo (a spicy game pâté) and Alajú (a variety of nougat made with almonds and honey, wrapped in a crêpe).
The Parador de Cuenca is fully equipped with modern facilities which include a gym, sauna, tennis court and a seasonal open-air swimming pool.
Keytel Tips
- Desserts are particularly good in the Parador’s restaurant
- Enjoy a stroll around the old town before nightfall and enjoy a drink in one of the traditional old bars. The heart of the old town has barely changed over time except for the development of the roads. Much of the original architecture remains to be appreciated.
- The fiestas of San Mateo, around the 21st September, are a hugely enjoyable display of Spanish culture.
keyteladmin
May 13, 2022 at 1:32 pmCuenca was the 24th Parador we have stayed at and it is up there with the very best in terms of building, setting, superb room (301), wonderful regional cuisine, but above all, the staff, who all went out of their way to be as helpful as they possibly could. Our only disappointment – we only stayed one night! – Mr & Mrs D (13th May 2022)