Fall is a great season for a weekend getaway, and many opt for Paradores of Spain to enjoy a unique combination of comfort and historic charm. Among these destinations, Benavente Paradorlocated between León and Zamora, in what was a castle-palace. With its emblematic “Torre del Caracol” and its Mudéjar coffered ceiling, the Parador allows its guests relive past times while benefiting from modern equipment. The rooms, equipped with air conditioning, safe, WiFi and television, offer panoramic views of the Tera and Órbigo valleys. In addition, its exteriors include gardens, terraces and a swimming pool ideal for warmer days.
Gastronomy is another of the strong points of the Parador de Benavente, with a restaurant that offers traditional dishes of Zamoranolike lamb and fried eggs with pork loin and chorizo, as well as delicious desserts like Castilian cream with feos de Benavente. On the price side, at the end of September, prices are around 100 euros per nightwhile in October they can vary between 92 and 178 euros. Likewise, registering for free as “Friends of Paradores” offers the possibility of access to attractive discounts and exclusive promotions.
Benavente Parador
The Parador de Benavente, strategically located between the provinces of León and Zamora, stands on the remains of the old Pimentel fortress. This majestic building preserves the iconic Torre del Caracol, a Renaissance construction that houses an impressive Mudejar coffered ceiling and a charming period bar, where guests can be transported to the past while enjoying modern comforts.
The interior decoration of the Parador is characterized by elegance of tapestries, forged lamps and artisanal materialswhich creates a unique and warm atmosphere. Surrounded by the beautiful gardens of Mota, the Parador offers spectacular views of the Tera and Órbigo valleys, making this place an ideal retreat to relax. You can enjoy the swimming pool, the large terraces and the pleasant corners which invite you to relax.
The castle, built on the orders of Counts of Benaventewas a point of great historical importance, especially in the Middle Ages. Its Renaissance architecture, with the Torre del Caracol from 1504, is one of the main attractions of this Parador.
THE Parador Rooms They perfectly combine historical style and modern comfort, offering guests amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi, as well as stunning views of the surrounding nature.
In terms of gastronomy, the Parador stands out for its Regional cuisine of Zamoracharacterized by the use of fresh, excellent quality products. Diners can enjoy the authentic flavors of the region in a bright restaurant with panoramic views of the countryside.
In the surrounding area, Benavente offers a rich variety of activities, historical and cultural routessuch as the archaeological route of Zamora, to opportunities to enjoy nature, such as the Villafáfila Lagoons Nature Reserve or Lake Sanabria.
Restaurant
He Parador de Benavente menu offers a delicious selection of local products that reflect the gastronomic richness of the region. To begin, you can taste a board of regional cheeses accompanied by artisanal jams, a perfect combination of traditional flavors and natural sweetness. Also notable is the IGP de León charcuterie, matured between 7 and 12 months, which offers an intense and authentic flavor.
Another option to whet your appetite is selection of Castilian-Leonese blood sausagesalso accompanied by artisanal jam, which adds a special touch to these traditional delights. For those who prefer something lighter, the menu includes fresh salads, such as roasted Benavente peppers with belly, or chickpea salad with smoked cod, a fresh and nutritious combination.
Among the most elaborate dishes, Valley vegetable lasagnaZamorano cheese gratin, which combines the best of the local garden with a creamy touch. The option of leek gratin with aioli and smoked trout is also interesting, which provide a soft and tasty texture. For seafood lovers, the double-cooked octopus with potato and La Vera paprika emulsion is an irresistible option.
As for the main dishes, the Cod “a lo uncle”, served in a paprika and Benavente pepper saucehighlights the most traditional flavors of local cuisine. For those who prefer meat, the menu offers the exquisite IGP roast lamb accompanied by baked potatoes, a typical recipe that cannot be missing on the table. Also notable is the beef fillet accompanied by shallots and candied cherry tomatoes, as well as the recent lamb chops, served grilled with potatoes and Valley peppers, ideal for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal.
