Parador de Cardona

Simply stunning location at the heart of Catalunya. Wonderful 360 degree views around the surrounding countryside and towns. The outdoor bar is a delight and the service is exemplary. The rooms are spacious and very clean with good air-con. The wine choice is good and the food excellent. I would thoroughly recommend this parador for the discerning travellers.

There is definitely novelty to staying in a castle. If you want a stay where you’re in a small town surrounded by nature with few distractions, this is it. It would be a nice place for a writing retreat, for example. However, for a 4-star hotel it really underwhelmed. The rooms were very simple, no amenities, no snacks, air conditioning was not functioning in late May. When I opened the window to my room, tons of flys and mosquitoes flew in and I spent the next hour swatting at them. So the nights were stuffy and hot, leading to poor sleep. There is not even any coffee station in the mornings, or available in the rooms- you have to attend their restaurant yes or yes, with a reservation ahead of time just to get coffee. I thought this was strange for a 4 star hotel. Also the gym and sauna were under repair- i do wish i’d been told ahead of time. The grounds are well taken care of. There is a trail that takes you to the center of the town. I do agree with other reviews, that its best to arrive by car or taxi, because the trek is difficult and steep to do with luggage. The employees were kind and helpful however.

I arrived at the Parador Castell de Cardona at 3.00pm. I had booked a suite half board, dinner bed and breakfast. €360/night for two. There was no food of any description in the entire hotel until our dinner reservation at 8.30pm. No milk in the suite for a cup of tea, no biscuits, no crisps or snacks at the bar. I was offered some jam and bread by an apologetic receptionist. If you plan to stay here bring some sandwiches and a few chocolate bars or you will be going hungry Edit :- I smoke, filthy habit I know, next to the bar is a large open air terrace, but strictly no smoking, so get used to walking the length of the castle, descending the lifts and walking down the drive for a quick fix. Edit:- Parador hotels are run by the government "Paradores de Turismo de España S.M.E. S.A." this explains why you can't get a biscuit. I'm British and remember British rail (government run) sandwiches and luke warm coffee , to fellow brits, you get the idea.