Parador de Cádiz

We had toured round Central Spain--Madrid, Carcares, Toledo, Avila, Segovia, Salamanca before driving down to Cadiz. So this was a nice change, on the coast with sea views and the hotel suited us fine with its light and airy ambience. The underground car park is handy although expensive at 19 euros per night ( we got rid of the car back to the hire car company after 1 night! as you don't really need a car in Cadiz ) Our room overlooking the pool and sea was lovely and the outside balcony was very pleasant. I think this would be the preferred side of the hotel as the other side predominantly overlooks the park so far more to see on our side. Room very clean and modern---it wasn't our idea of how a room should be designed ( think it must be a cleaner's nightmare) with all of its nooks and crannies and gadgets but plenty of talking points like the less than private facilities and the huge trough like bath big enough for 2 !! The location of the parador is a 10 minute bus ride from the train station or around 25 mins walk. The old quarter with its fabulous streets and alleyways full of bars, cafes and restaurants is within easy walking distance. the city feels so safe with a wonderfully authentic atmosphere--there are tourists of course but this is a truly REAL , lived-in City and all the better for it. Breakfast was a superb spread of everything you could think of ( we did wonder if the bread could have been a bit fresher or crispier) and the staff there were very efficient and friendly. Lovely views out to sea from the breakfast area. Very nice pool area and Caleta beach is literally less than 10 mins walk away. We preferred the beach further down the 'promenade' ( around 35/40 mins walk away) but beware there is very little shade on these public beaches and no sun umbrellas. The locals bring their own which could be purchased in nearby shops within the old centre.

Our stay at Parador de Cadiz was perfect from beginning to end. The staff were welcoming and informative, our room faced the ocean and was beautiful, the room was quiet, we loved the pool (cool, but worth it). The location was perfect - near the tapas bars, restaurants and groceries in La Vina and near La Caleta Beach with its beautiful sunsets. Our room also overlooked the lovely Parque Genoves, which was a welcome respite from days of being in tourist centers. There are complaints that the hotel is far from town, which is a bit of a mystery. The Roman Theatre is a very easy walk and a bus runs from the old town every few minutes and is extremely easy to navigate.

Beautiful view of sea and swimming pool, fabulous sunsets. Bed was comfortable with plenty pillows. Breakfast was good (although coffee machines were unpredictable). The view from the breakfast room was amazing.

Fabulous sea view from our balcony. Full glass bi-fold doors meant room almost extended to the outside. Junior suite amazing with his and hers bathrooms, separate living area and bedroom. Double bifold and large terrace with infinity glass. Lots of space in the triple pool area and lots of spare sunbeams throughout our stay. Secure underground parking for residents only. Maid servicing was excellent Good well run breakfast experience with plenty of choice.

Stunning double size corner suite overlooking the sea and evening sunset. Modern design for a Parador but great visual design and amazing location for the sea and the old city tourist sites. Underground parking available and rare for the location.