There are two castles here at the Oropesa Parador – separated by an immense wall that is crowned by a magnificent machicolated parapet and an awesome tower. The "Old Castle" was built in the 14th century as a sort of sentry that guarded the main road from Extremadura to the Meseta.  Much of it was torn down to provide stones for the Mudejar-styled "New Castle" in the 15th century.

At one time the castle complex was controlled by Don Francisco de
Toledo – Duke of Alba, and the Viceroy of Peru (he founded the city of Cochabamba in Peru).  He and later lords added an extended set of palatial rooms and quarters to create finally what you see today.

 The bedrooms here are large and spacious with simple Castilian styled, dark wood furniture.  The bathrooms have marble floors and counters.  All rooms have good views – either to the castle tower, the Gredos plains, or the Gredos peaks.

Be sure and dine in the exceptional restaurant at the Parador.  There are fine views from any table in the restaurant, but try to get a table against the glass wall on the north side – you will feel as if you are flying!  The view is panoramic and absolutely stunning. 

 

 

Interesting in-town excursions from the Oropesa Parador:

–  The wonderful ‘old town’ part of Oropesa spreads out directly below the Parador.  It makes for very pleasant exploring and contains several monuments of note.

 

Interesting half-day trips from the Parador include:

– Talavera De La Reina – Talavera is famous for its ceramics.  There are literally dozens of producers and outlets that sell local producers’ works here.  Recommend is Alfar El Carmen on the road heading out of town towards Oropesa (Avenida de Portugal 91).

– Lagarteras – A small village that is renowned for the traditional embroidery done there – some of the best in the world.

– The Embroidery Route –  Continuing from Lagarteras, you can drive the whole ‘route’ and see several interesting little towns – each specializing in its own style of ceramic work; Herreruela, Caleruela, Calzada de Oropesa, Las Ventas de San Julian, Navalcan, Parrillas Velada, Alcanizo, and Torralba de Oropesa.

– The Pottery Route – There is also an ‘official’ pottery route (info in the Parador) you can drive; Puente del Arzobispo, Valverde, Berrocalejo, El Gordo, and Calzada de Oropesa – along with Talavera De La Reina.

 

 

The Oropesa Parador is both historically and architecturally fascinating.  It is set in the middle of an area that abounds in traditional crafts.  The town of Oropesa itself is very old and very interesting . . . so be sure and stop for a night or so on your next trip to this area of Spain – you’re sure to have a memorable time.

 

Facilities at Parador Oropesa castle hotel;
1 Single bedroom – 33 Twin bedrooms – 2 Double bedrooms – 7 Suites – Bar 0- Restaurant – Telephone – Heating – Air- Conditioning – Satellite television – Internet access – Minibar – Safe – Shop – Lift – Currency exchange – Garden – Conference Facilities – Facilities for disabled

 

Your dream of Spain can be a reality!