It is true that the beach is for bathing, sunbathing or being contemplated from the distance of a boat, but winter also puts its note of charm in this natural place so necessary in our lives. From walking on the sand to observing the infinite blue that calms everything or listening to the relaxing sound of the waves, the sea brings good things in each and every season of the year. And the coast does not only breathe in the summer season. In winter, the coastline provides an excellent opportunity to discover calmer and more serene landscapes. Less crowded beaches that allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of these places without the summer crowds. It is also the most photogenic moment, thanks to its special light, the colors of the sunset and the absence of crowds. A perfect season to capture a unique coastal landscape and to carry out other types of cultural or natural activities.
The sea also gives the environment a warmer and less extreme temperature, as a thermal regulator, perfect for enjoying pleasant walks that would become suffocating in summer. As an attractive natural setting, the coast is visited by many birds and witnessing the flight of a variety of species that migrate along the coastal routes becomes another of the privileges of embarking on a winter getaway to beach destinations that, in addition, They usually offer their best rates now.
Wherever you go, the coast boasts destinations full of history, full of charm and varnished with a light that defies winter. Places where it is possible to enjoy unique accommodations such as those offered by the Paradores network. Original retreats, many of them on the beach, that allow you to taste the best regional cuisine and are committed to more sustainable tourism: in all their accommodations, single-use plastics have been eliminated in the rooms, the electricity that is consumed It is of 100% renewable origin and local products are prioritized in their kitchens. Furthermore, as charming destinations, they could not be more ideal in this month of love in which, in addition to including a special romantic dessert, Chocolate and Roses, in its menu, it offers the possibility of reserving your stay on half board with a romantic dinner for two. and other unique attentions to make you fall in love even more. So take note of these seven destinations.
With impressive views of the Mediterranean from its gardens, the Parador de Nerja was founded in 1965 on a cliff overlooking Burriana beach. For its part, Nerja, the town where it stands, captivates. A walk through its whitewashed streets and a visit to the famous caves, which house the largest column in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records, are, without a doubt, essential. As are its beaches and coves, and walking along the trails of the Sierras Tejeda and Almijara Natural Parks, which reveal nature in its maximum splendor. Furthermore, lovers of the mythical Blue Summer, filmed in this picturesque destination, will identify in the surroundings of the Parador (and in the hotel’s own gardens) many locations from the series and also a replica of Chanquete’s iconic ship.
To regain strength after the ride, which you can do by bicycle since the Parador is one of the 27 accommodations in the network adapted to cycle tourism, the Parador’s Malaga cuisine awaits you: that of its modern restaurant, where you can taste specialties such as pickled anchovies , sardine skewers, Malaga white shrimp or baked wild rock fish; and that of its gastronomic space El Ombú del Mediterráneo, more informal and with portions to share, typical of the Malaga regions, such as fried eggplants, bienmesabe of dogfish or goat stew Nerjeña style.
On the sunny Costa de Almería, the Parador de Mojácar is presented as a Moorish-inspired building, in tune with the architecture that predominates in the area, and with dazzling views of the sea from its modern rooms or from the terrace, which is also It overlooks the seasonal pool and the profuse garden.
Enjoying a walk through the narrow, cobbled streets of the town of Mojácar, full of picturesque squares and spectacular viewpoints, will allow you to glimpse the fusion of cultures that defines this unique corner, caressed almost all year round by the sun and wrapped in an inexhaustible good time. Perfect for discovering the surroundings and the nearby Cabo de Gata and the unusual Tabernas desert, settings for films such as Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade, Lawrence of Arabia, A Fistful of Dollars or Treasure Island.
Already in its restaurant, you can taste exquisite fish and seafood from the Mediterranean and juicy rice dishes from local cuisine, as well as tasty recipes made with Almeria fruits and vegetables. Don’t leave without ordering the Cod with Confit Garlic and Garruchera Rice (soupy with local fish and seafood). If you prefer La Cuajadera del Mediterráneo, a more casual gastronomic space, it is mandatory to order the Iberian acorn-fed ham, the Filabres cheeses, the Trevélez ham croquettes or the cold tomato soup.
On the smallest island of the Canary archipelago, on the remote coasts of El Hierro and surrounded by a huge black sand beach, there is an incredible haven of peace in the middle of the Atlantic: the Parador de El Hierro. A perfect destination for diving lovers, since this area is declared a Biosphere Reserve (as a result of its volcanic activity) and, according to what they say, it is one of the best places on the planet to practice this water sport with more than 50 immersion points.
The Parador concentrates all the Canarian essence and offers the best starting point to explore the uniqueness of the island, which once served as the location of the Zero Meridian. From ancient forests to places with trees twisted by wind erosion, such as El Sabinar, as well as the beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters of La Restinga, a different and captivating winter paradise awaits you. And also, sustainable: we are the first island that is self-sufficient with renewable energy sources.
After discovering all the corners that this corner of the Atlantic treasures, don’t forget to sit at the table at the Parador restaurant, with views of the ocean and the volcanic mountain, to savor the gastronomy of El Hierro. Dare to try local specialties such as El Hierro cheese broth, El Hierro peto with onions with wrinkled potatoes or Pinar fig biscuit. You will want to come back.
February in Cádiz is much more than carnivals. Even more so if you stay at the Parador, a contemporary building, practically bathed by the ocean, with a spa, a collection of modern art, a gym and just a step away from La Caleta beach for those who want to enjoy the surroundings and the walk. maritime. For them, the city of Cadiz offers many options: the Pópulo neighborhood, the Santa María neighborhood, its baroque houses, its squares, its cathedral…
The most active can surf in Tarifa or watch whales and dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar, on their return from migration. Additionally, in nearby Jerez de la Frontera, the Flamenco Festival will start on February 23, until March 9, with shows, dance classes, workshops and conferences at the Villamarta theater and other points in the city.
Back at the Parador de Cádiz, its restaurant, which overlooks the sea, brings together the best dishes: cheeses from the Sierra de Cádiz, red tuna or shrimp and sea urchin omelettes, all with local products. That or enjoy a pleasant tapas in the bright space of La Tacita del Atlántico, where you can try the delicious preserves from Barbate, the famous products from La Janda or the always essential fried food.
La Palma is a World Biosphere Reserve. Therefore, in just a few kilometers, it concentrates volcanic landscapes, large cliffs, arid coasts and laurel forests. An incomparable natural setting where the Parador de La Palma stands, with incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic, as an exotic alternative for a getaway of disconnection and tranquility. A suggestive balcony overlooking the blue immensity that concentrates in its building all the essence of typical Canarian architecture, in a strategic location, between the airport and the capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma.
As soon as you arrive, the Parador, surrounded by gardens, will make you fall in love with its more than 70 native species, such as dragon trees, tajinastes and tabaibas. An immense orchard to walk through and enjoy, whose aroma and color will permeate your room every morning. In addition to a seasonal swimming pool, gym, sauna, a magnificent terrace for having a snack and the wonderful restaurant – with views of neighboring Tenerife and La Gomera on clear days – where you can taste Canarian cuisine dishes such as potatoes. with its Canarian mojos and almogrote, the grilled peto, a prince Alberto with cream or the bienmesabe.
If you decide to explore the surroundings, the Caldera de Taburiente National Park and Roque de los Muchachos await you, the highest point on the island where it seems that heaven and earth come together. An image that you will not easily forget.
The Parador de Jávea is the only one in the province of Alicante and, furthermore, it is the only one that has its own pier in the entire network. A building of no more than five heights that practically stands barefoot on the famous Arenal Beach. Opened in 1965 to respond to the tourist boom of that decade, today it boasts a renovated interior, bathed in the immense light of the Mediterranean, which filters through its numerous windows, and dressed with the current look of the contemporary art exhibition that hangs from its walls.
Cradled by nature and the sea, the establishment is located a stone’s throw from natural pools, Roman archaeological sites, coves where you can walk or cool off, such as Portixol, and an old town where you can get lost and enjoy all kinds of buildings, activities and leisure. Go to the church-fortress of San Bartolomé, visit its Municipal Food Market and enter the Soler Blasco Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum. Already in the surroundings, plan a route, perfect for this time of year, such as the climb to Montgó or Castell de la Granadella.
And when you return to the Parador, don’t forget your gastronomic date at its restaurant – with views of the palm grove and the sea – where Mediterranean cuisine with a seafood base and an abundance of vegetables and fruit awaits you, in which rice is the main ingredient. in many of its traditional dishes. Order a good paella and try their fried fish, octopus and goat shoulder. You will repeat.
On the idyllic Costa Brava is the Parador de Aiguablava. A modern accommodation that overlooks a spectacular cliff (Punta D’es Muts) with its terraces overlooking the sea and rooms where, due to the views, it seems that nature is sneaking in. The Parador blends harmoniously with its surroundings, full of hidden coves to visit, with the advantage of guaranteed tranquility. In addition, the nearby parks in the Cap de Creus region, Alt Pirineu, Serra de Montsant, Els Aiguamolls and Delta del Ebro offer their best appearance at this time, relaxed and without crowds.
It is also worth visiting the impressive medieval cities of Pals and Peratallada, or the town of Begur, crowned by its imposing castle, which has a medieval archaeological site. If you are an art lover, in the same accommodation you have access to an incredible collection of contemporary art with more than 200 works by Catalan artists such as Miró, Tapiès, Dalí or Modest Cuixart. Also don’t miss the Parador restaurant with its delicious regional cuisine: fresh seafood, fish from the market and excellent rice dishes.