Parador de Baiona

Spain – Galicia – Pontevedra – Baiona (Bayona)

This stunningly situated medieval fortress stands high on a rocky promontory above the Atlantic, guarding the mouth of the inlet that takes ships past the Islas Cies and up the river to the port of Vigo. The historic fishing town of Baiona itself traces its history back some two thousand years, and on 1 March 1493 Columbus’s ship the Pinta returned here from America, bringing with it the first news of the New World. It is still a popular spot with sailors, and many yachts use the marina. The Parador de Baiona comprises a Galician manor house within the walls of a medieval fortress, originally intended to deter pirates from this stretch of coast (Sir Francis Drake was repelled by the inhabitants of Baiona in 1585). The historic interior of the Parador is remarkable for its timber beams and vaultings, and its magnificent central stone staircase. Many of the bedrooms have splendid sea views. Seafood on offer at the restaurant includes Rodaballo salvaje a la parrilla (grilled turbot) and shellfish, while those with a sweet tooth will enjoy such desserts as Tarta de Santiago (almond and egg cake) and Filloas (crêpes filled with confectioner’s cream).

There is garage parking at this Parador.