TRAVEL SPAIN

PARADOR de HONDARRIBIA - SAN SEBASTIAN

A very special Parador in Spain

The Parador occupies a beautiful castle built by the King of Navarre, Sancho Abarca, in the 10th century. The building still retains the appearance and atmosphere of an original medieval fortress and provides a magnificent backdrop to the coastal location. The thick-walled exterior of the fortress belies its beautifully renovated interior. The stonework in the courtyard is exquisite and the seaviews from the terrace (and some of the guestrooms) are stunning. There are magical arches, coffering, wrought iron, suits of armour and medieval decor throughout the Parador. In addition to double rooms with either two beds or a queen bed, there are superior rooms (2 beds), suites and a double with canopied kingsize bed.

A very special room is The Reina Maria Cristina, a suite with a 2x2 metre four poster bed. The large stone vault lends the room a touch of majesty which, added to the stunning views out over Hondarribia and the River Bidasoa basin enjoyed from the window, will make your stay unforgettable. It has a cosy living room on an upper floor, providing peace and quiet.

Famous figures such as Admiral Oquendo, the Duke of Alba, Garcilarso de la Vega, the Marquess of Spinola, Sofa Loren and Natalia Figueroa have stayed in this special room.

Note: This Parador does not have a restaurant - only breakfast is served - no other meals, but there are many restaurants in the vicinity. One guest who stayed at the Parador recommends eating at Sebastian close to the Parador for great food and service.