| Finding unusual lodging can make your trip to Spain | | | | the Alhambra, one of Andalucia's architectural |
| memorable whether you are looking for a modern | | | | jewels. When you stay there you are right inside |
| hotel in Madrid or a eco-friendly experience in the | | | | the beautiful grounds. |
| countryside. | | | | Other Unusual Lodging Experiences |
| Paradores | | | | El Ventorro Hotel in Andalucia, Southern Spain has |
| The Paradores of Spain are operated by the | | | | 8 en-suite rooms carved out of the mountain. |
| Spanish government. They are medieval castles, | | | | Even though they are caves, they have |
| Moorish fortresses, ancient monasteries, charming | | | | comfortable beds, TVs and heating. Off the |
| palaces and stately manor houses. The buildings | | | | courtyard is a door that leads to Arab baths |
| may be historic and centuries old, but the | | | | complete with warm and cold pools and a area |
| amenities (e.g.,wireless internet, satellite TV, and | | | | with masseurs. |
| minibars) and service are modern. The 93 hotel | | | | Hotel Silken Puerta América, Madrid, Each |
| chain was founded in 1928 by order of King | | | | floor of this hotel was done by a different |
| Alphonso XIII. | | | | designer. From rooms that are all white to |
| The Paradores are located all around the country. | | | | bathrooms that are all red, the rooms at this |
| It is rarely more than a few hours, or at most | | | | hotel are very modern and very dramatic. Even |
| half-a-day's drive between one Parador and the | | | | the hotel garage had a designer.Some of the |
| next. | | | | rooms are not too expensive, but most are quite |
| The restaurants at the Paradores are as special | | | | pricey. |
| as the paradores themselves. Each offers a menu | | | | Want a different type of camping experience? |
| that centers around the traditional dishes of the | | | | Try a Tipi holiday. This eco-friendly luxury camping |
| local region, yet prepared in the chef's own style. | | | | experience comes with a double luxury camp bed |
| The wine lists feature some of Spain's best wines. | | | | with feather duvet and a private shower room |
| Several of the Paradores are set in extraordinary | | | | within the cave complex. They have an outside |
| natural surroundings. Most of Spain's national parks | | | | kitchen with a BBQ, gas hob, a refrigerator, and |
| have a Parador either inside or very near. | | | | pots and pans. You can use this to prepare your |
| Other Paradores are located at historic attractions. | | | | own meals if you wish. |
| The Parador in Granada is located literally inside | | | | |