Early at Extremadura

Hotel description Charming hotel with a majestic past is located in the castle of the XV century and has a beautiful central courtyard and a large restaurant. Alternatively, guests can swim in the pool surrounded by magnificent gardens. Hotel Parador Zafra, built in 1437, was once the residence of the dukes of Feria. The hotel has a beautiful hall with a fireplace, as well as a former chapel with a Gothic Mudejar tower. The spectacular façade of the Parador Zafra Hotel is formed by 9 towers connected by strong stone walls with turrets on the roof.

Hotel description Set in a 14th-century stone palace, Parador de Caceres includes original features, such as vaulted ceilings and antique furnishings. The hotel is located in Caceres Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Decorated in neutral tones, the spacious rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, heating and a mini-bar. They also include a private bathroom. The elegant restaurant at Parador de Caceres serves traditional cuisine. Specialties include roast lamb shank and Iberian pork loin. San Juan Church and Caceres Museum are both just 200 m from the property.

Hotel description Located in the Extremaduran town of Guadalupe, this impressive Parador has been wonderfully converted from a 15th-century hospital. It is surrounded by lovely gardens, a pool and has a fine restaurant. Enjoy regional cuisine in the Parador de Turismo Guadalupe which serves specialties from the Extremaduran region in an imaginative and delicious way. Wander through the Parador de Turismo de Guadalupe and admire the attractive architecture with its beautiful archways, sunny terraces and views over the countryside.

Hotel description Housed in the beautiful old convent of Santa Clara, the Parador de Trujillo hotel is the perfect place to enjoy peace and tranquility in the historic city of Trujillo. Spend the day relaxing by the swimming pool in this hotel in summer. Here you can sunbathe on one of the sun loungers surrounding the pool, then take a dip to cool off. There is a snack bar onsite, where you can sample local-style cuisine, with modern touches. After dinner, you can sit back with a drink in the bar and enjoy the company of family or friends. Admire the 2 fantastic cloisters in the interior of the building, where you can relax and enjoy a read bathed by natural light.

Hotel description One of our top picks in Mérida.Set in a former convent, dating from the 18th century, the Parador de Mérida provides attractive accommodations. It is within 10 minutes' walk of Mérida's main attractions. Parador de Mérida features a pleasant, traditional-style inner courtyard and beautiful gardens, where you can relax and read a book and keep cool in the midday sun. Dine in the Marmitia on-site restaurant with family or friends, where you can enjoy local-style cuisine, without leaving the hotel. There is a sauna and a gym in the Parador de Mérida, where you can do some exercise.

Hotel description Sheltered by the magnificent landscape of the Vera and Tiétar Valley, this hotel is set in a castle dating from the 15th century – perfect for a peaceful break in the Extremaduran countryside. The ancient stone walls, courtyards and towers of the Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera have hosted many historic figures through the centuries, including the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V. Its careful renovation maintained its Medieval feel while adding more modern features such as an outdoor swimming pool.

Hotel description One of our top picks in Badajoz.