Travellers to the province of Guadalajara can now enjoy a revitalised trip, as two of its most emblematic Paradors are now welcoming guests for summer stays.
Parador de Sigüenza has reopened following extensive renovations whilst the Parador de Molina de Aragón recently opening its doors for the first time, making it the 98th Parador in the network. The opening of the Parador de Molina de Aragon had €22 million invested into its opening to create it as a hub of heritage with a 21st-century viewpoint.
Just 80 kilometres apart, these properties invite visitors to explore the heart of inland Spain through renewed heritage, comfort, and design. Their reopening and opening respectively is part of an ambitious transformation strategy being rolled out across the Paradores network in preparation for its centenary in 2028, which includes the modernisation of over half of its properties. With more than €250 million invested, the goal is to enhance guest experiences while championing a responsible model of tourism rooted in cultural and environmental enrichment.
Parador de Sigüenza – new rooftop and stargazing activities
Following a seven-month closure, the Parador de Sigüenza reopened its doors on 9 May, unveiling a major renovation project valued at over €10 million. Housed within a spectacular 12th-century castle, the Parador now boasts fully modernised facilities while preserving its historic character. The renovation included the modernisation of 21 guest room bathrooms, replacing bathtubs with showers to enhance comfort and accessibility. The castle’s exterior received careful conservation work including the restoration of the barbican and the creation of a new visitable rooftop terrace with stargazing activities available. A comprehensive redecoration refreshed the hotel’s ambience with new lighting, textiles, and furnishings.
Complementing these physical upgrades is an ambitious artistic project showcasing contemporary textiles from the Royal Tapestry Factory, sculptures by Gerard Mas, ceramics by local artisan Aniana Heras, and a photographic series by José Quintanilla, adding an artistic and cultural layer to the historic setting.
Energy efficiency has also been significantly upgraded by replacing old oil boilers with a natural gas system, reducing heating energy consumption by over 25% and cutting CO2 emissions by more than half.
Near the Parador de Sigüenza, visitors can explore rich cultural landmarks like the medieval cathedral and the Casa del Doncel, all set within the historic town centre. For nature lovers, the nearby Río Dulce Natural Park offers scenic hiking trails, dramatic cliffs, and birdwatching opportunities.
Stay in: Parador de Sigüenza. Stays start at £125 per night, on a B&B bases. Fly to Madrid or Zaragoza.
Parador de Molina de Aragón
The newly opened Parador de Molina de Aragón has been thoughtfully designed to offer exceptional guest comfort while harmonising with its stunning natural setting in the Upper Tagus Natural Park. The opening of the new Parador was originally a commitment of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero’s government to revitalise the economy of this area after the fire in Guadalajara in 2005. The building characterised by traditional stone architecture, features guest rooms with modern amenities and design elements that balance rustic charm with contemporary comfort.
The brand-new construction includes thoughtfully designed bathrooms and public spaces that prioritise both functionality and aesthetic appeal, alongside advanced, energy-efficient heating and climate control systems that support sustainable comfort throughout the building. These design elements ensure the Parador is not only a comfortable base for exploring the medieval town of Molina de Aragón and its surroundings, but also a sustainable accommodation that respects its environment. The Parador’s new interiors and the addition of panoramic viewing areas invite guests to fully enjoy the tranquil landscapes and historical landmarks nearby, including the impressive medieval castle and the natural wonders of the UNESCO Geopark.
Stay in: Parador de Molina de Aragón. Stays start at £95 per night, on an accommodation only basis. Fly to Madrid or Zaragoza.