Gea de Albarracin accommodation from NZ$116

This was the fourth Parador that we stayed in on our driving trip around Spain. Like all the other Paradors, the staff were delightful. Unlike the other Paradors, the building is relatively modern (built in the 1950s) and our room was fairly small (in comparison with other Paradors). There was no kettle or tea/coffee making equipment in the room. The swimming pool looked delightful but we could not use it because all swimming pools at Paradors open on 1 June and we were 10 days too early! Teruel itself is well worth a visit - the highlights for us included the magnificent Escalinata and the famous lovers mausoleum attached to the Church of San Pedro, plus of course the four Towers. The location of the Parador is worth a mention - it is just over a mile from the centre of town (as the crow flies) but a bit longer by car. We did not want to have to drive into Teruel and find a parking place so we enquired about taxis. The response was discouraging - taxis were sparse and very difficult to get at peak times. We were somewhat reluctant to try to walk into Teruel as the Parador is close to the dual carriageway which leads into town and walking at the side of a dual carriageway is not to be recommended! We ordered a taxi at the Parador at around 11am (off peak) and waited in hope. Of course, a taxi turned up 10 minutes later and took us into town. The return journey was equally simple around 4pm - available taxis were waiting at the taxi stop near to the Tourist Information Office.

Beautiful historic property recently transformed into a hotel; the decoration is very well done, respecting the tradition of the building. Very kind, attentive staff at every level. Excellent restaurant, with a Peruvian influence. This was our last stay in a 7 week journey through Spain, and the perfect place to wrap up a wonderful trip.

Get a room with a view. It’s worth the extra money. I really enjoyed my 3 night stay at the Hotel Albarracin. Two nights to explore Albarracin and 1 full day to explore Daroca and Teruel with a car.