Parador de Zamora

Spain – Castilla y León – Zamora

Renaissance palace

4-star

In the earlier Middle Ages the town of Zamora – to the west of Valladolid, close to the Portuguese border – was the focus of much fighting between Moors and Christians, and many Romanesque churches survive from this time. In 1459, long after the Moors were expelled, the Count of Alba and Aliste ordered a new palace to be built, on the ruins of the old Arab fortress. This splendid Renaissance building in the town centre is now the Parador de Zamora, which has retained many of the magnificent original features, such as the grand stone staircase and the arcaded courtyard. The historic atmosphere of the interior is enhanced by many tapestries, suits of armour and heraldic banners, and wooden floors and beams add to the general air of nobility. In warm weather guests can take advantage of the garden and swimming pool. Meals can be taken in the dining room or on the terrace, and the restaurant offers such regional dishes as Bacalao a la Tranca (salt cod with roasted red peppers and sweet paprika), Pulpo a la sanabresa (octopus served with sweet paprika and olive oil) and Natillas almendradas (an almond-flavoured custard). Guests should also sample the locally produced wine, Sangre de Toro (‘bull’s blood’) – the wine town of Toro is nearby.

There is garage parking available near this Parador.