Parador de Villafranca Del Bierzo

We were hiking the Camino de Santiago and wanted somewhere nice to stay in Villafranca del Bierzo, so we opted for the Parador hotel as it looked like the best option. Unfortunately this Parador was very dated and soul-less. The breakfast quality was good although the dining room was just a room with no atmosphere. The room & bathroom was clean & comfortable but nothing to shout about here. The photo of the pool on the website looks amazing but when we actually went for a swim, we were shocked at how small it was. It is so small it can only really hold 2 people max. The sauna was turned off and the showers by the pool area were not working. All in all a very disappointing experience and certainly not worth the Euros 172 that we paid for a double room with breakfast.....having said that, it probably is still the best place to stay in Villafranca del Bierzo if you don't want to stay in a hostel!

Disappointing Disappointing stay. It felt like a B grade Parador, with sections cordoned off. Room with view over motorway didn’t help. While loading cases into car, the grass sprinkler system came on, soaking me, my cases and the boot of the car. All round, just a bit tacky.

Comfortable and clean historic property. I had a double room with private bath. Comfortable rest stop for Camino near sights.

There are many dining options close by in Plaza Mayor.

For the second year we stayed at a Parador after one of our walking days on the Camino. This one was one of the more modern Paradors and not as visually appealing, although there were lovely views from the grounds. We had half board and the food was excellent. Breakfast was plentiful, the fruit in particular was delicious.

We stayed in a few paradores this summer. This was different but really nice and beautifully situated. We had really good breakfast and ate one night at the restaurant where we had a nice dinner and very good wine. The town is 5 minutes away and on the way a winery with service in a beautiful garden. The pool area was also really good! Inside and outside pool. After check out the hotel let us stay in the pool area till we had to go to the airport, nice service!