Parador de Pontevedra

Spain – Galicia – Pontevedra

Renaissance palace

4-star

The ancient port of Pontevedra is situated at the inner end of a long inlet of the Atlantic on the west coast of Galicia, between Vigo and Santiago. It was in the shipyards of Pontevedra that Columbus’s Santa Maria was built. The Parador de Pontevedra, located in the pedestrianized zone in the oldest part of the town, dates from the 16th century, just after Columbus’s time, and was a residence of the Counts of Maceda. Classical elegance is the keynote in this Renaissance palace, with its courtyards, balconies and stone-carved staircase. Mirrors, antiques, paintings and candelabras all add to the richness of the atmosphere. In summer one can eat outside on the patio, and at all times of year the restaurant provides local seafood dishes such as Pulpo Feira (octopus cooked with olive oil, paprika and salt), or mouthwatering desserts such as Filloas (the delicious local crêpes).