Parador de Santo Estevo (Luintra)

Spain – Galicia – Ourense – Nogueira de Ramuín

Ancient monastery

4-star

This stunning Parador, near the town of Ourense and approximately equidistant from Santiago and Vigo, is in a former Benedictine monastery, one of the oldest in Galicia, tracing its origins to the 6th century and declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1923. The monastery buildings stand four-square on a wooded hillside, with magnificent views out over the surrounding landscape, an area known as the Ribeira Sacra where the River Sil joins the River Minho to form the border with Portugal. The carefully restored and preserved buildings have Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements, and notable features include a monumental staircase and three cloisters, one in each style. Several of the bedrooms have fine views down to the River Sil, and the bar is situated in one of the cloisters. At the restaurant one can dine on the patio in fine weather, and sample such local dishes as Cocido (a stew made with garbanzo beans), Empanada Gallega (Galician stuffed pastry) and fresh fish from the River Sil.

New for 2008 - enjoy 21st century luxuries in 10th century surroundings. The Parador of Santo Estevo has now opened a state of the art spa offering full facilities and treatments. See the photos section for some fabulous images!

There is garage parking at this Parador.