Autumn is an ideal 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, the Benavente Paradorlocated between León and Zamora, in what was a castle-palace. With its iconic “Torre del Caracol” and its Mudejar coffered ceiling, the Parador allows guests relive past times while enjoying modern facilities. 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 Zamorano dishessuch as lamb and fried eggs with pork loin and chorizo, as well as delicious desserts such as Castilian custard with feos de Benavente. As for prices, at the end of September, prices are around 100 euros per nightwhile in October they can range between 92 and 178 euros. Likewise, registering for free as “Friends of Paradores” offers the possibility of accessing attractive discounts and exclusive promotions.
Benavente Parador
The Parador de Benavente, strategically located between the provinces of León and Zamora, stands on the vestiges of the old fortress of the Pimentel. This majestic building preserves the emblematic Torre del Caracol, a Renaissance construction that houses an impressive Mudejar coffered ceiling and a charming period bar, where guests can be transported to bygone times while enjoying modern comforts.
The interior decoration of the Parador is characterized by elegance of tapestries, wrought lamps and handcrafted materialswhich creates a unique and cozy atmosphere. Surrounded by the beautiful Mota Gardens, the Parador offers spectacular views of the Tera and Órbigo valleys, making this place an ideal refuge to relax. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool, the large terraces and the pleasant corners that invite you to relax.
The castle, built by order of the Counts of Benaventewas a point of great historical importance, especially during the Middle Ages. Its Renaissance architecture, along with the Torre del Caracol in 1504, is one of the main attractions of this Parador.
The Parador rooms They perfectly combine historic style with modern comforts, offering guests amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV and free WiFi, as well as stunning views of the natural surroundings.
In terms of gastronomy, the Parador stands out for its Zamora regional cuisinecharacterized by the use of fresh products of excellent quality. Diners can enjoy the authentic flavors of the area in a bright restaurant with panoramic views of the countryside.
In the surrounding area, Benavente offers a rich variety of activities, from historical and cultural routessuch as the Zamora Archeology Route, to opportunities to enjoy nature, such as the Villafáfila Lagoons Natural Reserve or Sanabria Lake.
Restaurant
He Parador de Benavente menu offers a delicious selection of local products that reflect the gastronomic richness of the region. To start, you can enjoy a board of regional cheeses accompanied by artisan jam, a perfect combination of traditional flavors and natural sweetness. The PGI cured meat from León also stands out, cured 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 artisan jam, which adds a special touch to these traditional delicacies. For those who prefer something lighter, the menu includes fresh salads, such as roasted Benavente peppers with belly, or a chickpea salad with smoked cod, a fresh and nutritious combination.
Among the most elaborate dishes, the Valley vegetable lasagnagratin with Zamorano cheese, which combines the best of the local garden with a touch of creaminess. Also interesting is the option of gratin leeks with aioli and smoked trout, which provide a soft and tasty texture. For seafood lovers, double-cooked octopus with potato and La Vera paprika emulsion is an irresistible option.
As for the main dishes, the “a lo uncle” cod, served in paprika sauce and Benavente peppershighlights the most traditional flavors of local cuisine. For those who prefer meat, the menu offers the exquisite roast lamb PGI accompanied by baked potatoes, a typical recipe that cannot be missing from the table. The beef tenderloin accompanied by shallots and candied cherry tomatoes also stands out, as well as the recent lamb chops, which are served grilled with potatoes and Valley peppers, ideal for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal.
