If you want to live like royalty during your next trip to Spain, staying in a castle hotel is a must. Once the residence of kings and queens, these century-old structures have been converted into lavish accommodations to suit the modern-day traveler.
Spanish castles blend the past with the present in a magical way. They offer all the luxuries you’d expect while on vacation, along with some awesome extras, like sumptuous gardens, historic dining halls, and quiet courtyards. If this sounds good to you, here are the top castle hotels in Spain.
Parador-de-Olite
1. Parador de Granada
The atmospheric Parador de Granada offers contemporary lodging in a traditional setting. Located directly on the grounds of the medieval Alhambra Palace, this lavish hotel resides inside a former 15th-century convent.
The original elements, including beam ceilings, stone archways, and antique furnishings are still visible and give the building an old-world feel. The modern rooms include homey amenities, like a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, and WiFi.
The restaurant serves Andalusian cuisine, which you can enjoy on the terrace with a view of the palace gardens. When you’ve finished, head to the patio and relax with a tall glass of Spanish wine. Lastly, the location is very appealing. It’s just a short walk from popular attractions, including Granada Cathedral and the historic quarter.
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2. SH Ingles Boutique Hotel
Dating back to the 18th-century, this castle in Spain is the epitome of elegance. This former palace is located in the center of Valencia. It’s surrounded by luxury shopping retailers and is just a short walk from the famous cathedral.
The rooms are tastefully decorated and include modern amenities. After an eventful day out, they’re the perfect place to return “home” to. Scroll through social media from the comfort of your bed with the free WiFi. Or, grab a drink from the minibar and switch on the flat-screen TV.
As far as dining goes, the à la carte restaurant offers regional specialties, like Valencia’s renowned paella. After your meal, enjoy a glass of wine at the hotel bar. If you need a quick caffeine boost, head to the charming cafe and enjoy an espresso on the terrace.
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3. Hotel Castillo de Monda
Perched high on a hilltop, Hotel Castillo de Monda is a renovated Spanish castle that offers intimate accommodation. It’s located in the small village of Monda, in the Andalusia region of Spain.
This Spanish hotel only hosts 70 guests at a time and the rooms are spread throughout the building. This ensures a personal vacation experience and more attentive service from the staff.
Each room is uniquely decorated and includes antique furnishings and modern comforts. No matter which unit you choose, each comes with WiFi, coffee/tea facilities, a mini-fridge, and an ensuite bathroom. If you really want to live like royalty during your stay, upgrade to an option with a spa bath and a private balcony.
Start each morning with a continental breakfast served on the beautiful terrace overlooking the valley. Your other meals can be enjoyed at the hotel’s Albacar restaurant or tapa bar.
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4. Castillo Hotel Son Vida, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mallorca – Adults Only
If you’re on a kids-free vacation, why not stay in a castle in Spain that’s adults only? Castillo Hotel Son Vida is set in a stunning 13th-century castle, on Mallorca, one of Spain’s beautiful islands.
The spacious rooms are designed for relaxation. Slip into your comfortable bathrobes and slippers and grab a drink from the minibar. Wind down while watching the flat-screen TV, or outside on the balcony.
When you’re not out exploring the city, lounge next to the large outdoor pool, which is serviced with drinks and snacks. Or, book into a relaxing spa treatment. There are two fine dining restaurants at the hotel serving international and Spanish cuisine. For something more casual, the salon-style bar offers cocktails and appetizers.
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5. Parador de Cardona
Parador de Cardona is a large stone castle that dates back to the 9th century. Nestled in the countryside, beside the River Cardoner, it enjoys a picturesque setting.
In true Medieval fashion, the castle contains high arched ceilings, stone walls, and charming courtyards. The rooms also draw inspiration from this period. With canopy beds, rich fabrics, and Catalan-inspired furniture, they’re fit for a king. Well, perhaps a modern-day king, since they include a minibar, a flat-screen TV, and a tea/coffee maker.
The dining room looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. It provides guests with an authentic taste of Catalonia cuisine in a romantic setting.
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6. Parador de Olite
As far as sophisticated Spanish castle hotels go, Parador de Olite is in the top leagues. Constructed in the 15th-century, this ornate palace still maintains a medieval atmosphere. With beautiful stained glass windows, wrought iron lamps, and coffered ceilings, historic treasures can be found around every corner.
The warmly decorated rooms are full of detail. Some have canopy four-poster beds, stone walls, and lavish rugs. Modern amenities, like WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar are also included.
The on-site restaurant has a rustic yet romantic feel to it, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and tiled floors. Breakfast and dinner are included in some room rates. After you’ve enjoyed a meal, relax in the lounge on a sofa next to the fireplace. Or wander around the castle courtyard.
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7. Posada Real Castillo del Buen Amor
The magnificent Posada Real Castillo del Buen Amor is a restored 15th-century castle set in the Castilian countryside. It retains many features from centuries past, including an old slate fireplace, a coffered ceiling, and a Gothic-Renaissance cloister.
The stylish rooms blend classic decor with modern comforts. The walls are made of chiseled Villamayor stone and the ceilings have exposed beams. Contemporary amenities include a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and WiFi. The ensuite bathrooms are equally appealing and feature a bidet, some also have bathtubs.
If you’re visiting Spain during the warmer months, take advantage of the seasonal outdoor swimming pool and sun loungers. If you’re visiting when it’s a bit colder, the castle library and cozy pub go hand in hand.
Lastly, the restaurant offers a gastronomic menu full of Spanish specialties. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of fine wine.
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8. Parador de Tortosa
Parador de Tortosa is an imposing castle built by the Moorish King Abderramán III in the 10th century. It’s set in the Beceite Mountains and towers over the ancient city below. Over the years, the massive building has been restored and refurbished, but it still retains much of its original charm.
The rooms include detailed wood furnishings and modern amenities, like free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. Upgraded options have balconies and separate living areas. The swimming pool is contained by the castle’s ancient stone walls and offers breathtaking views of the mountains in the distance.
The hotel restaurant specializes in Catalan cuisines. Enjoy your meals in a historic setting, with beautiful stained-glass windows, a large stone fireplace, and terracotta floors. Or, order room service and eat in bed.
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9. Parador de Zafra
The upscale Parador de Zafra is set in a majestic 15th-century castle. It was originally constructed in 1437 to house the Dukes of Feria. Elegance and luxury emanate throughout the castle walls.
The bright rooms are styled in a simple yet sophisticated manner. Relax on the plush bedding with a drink from the minibar while watching TV. For extra comfort, splurge on a superior room and enjoy the luxury of a spacious living room with pool views.
As is typical with castles in Spain, there are multiple areas around the grounds for guests to explore. Take a stroll through the charming courtyard then sit down for a casual meal at the stunning on-site restaurant.
This centrally located castle hotel in Spain is close to several of Zafra’s popular landmarks. The Santa Clara Museum and Arco Del Cubo are within walking distance. Local restaurants and bars can also be reached on foot.
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10. Parador de Ciudad Rodrigo
The ivy-covered Parador de Ciudad Rodrigo is a 14th-century hilltop castle just 25 minutes from the Portuguese border. With the city of Ciudad Rodrigo on one side and the Campo Charro countryside on the other, the views are pretty spectacular.
Several original castle features still remain, including stone alcoves, the defensive crenelated tower, and the palace courtyard. The rooms are clean and comfortable. With beautifully tiled floors, antique furnishings, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar, they’re the perfect mix of tradition and contemporary.
The restaurant contains vaulted wood-beam ceilings, historic tapestries, and stone arches. It’s a charming setting to enjoy your complimentary breakfast as well as lunch and dinner.
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Final Thoughts on Castles to Stay at in Spain
Spain’s castle hotels offer so much more than your typical accommodation. Traditional detailings are mixed with modern comforts and conveniences. They immerse you in the history of Spain and provide a rare glimpse into the past.
Whether you check into a modernized castle in the city or an ancient fortress in the countryside, you’re sure to have a memorable trip.
