Parador de León 5*

On a plaza of the same name close to the city centre, the luxurious Hotel San Marcos in León is one of Spain's oldest Paradores. Originally a monastery and a hospital to shelter pilgrims, it dates back to 1173 and is a protected building so the general structure has not changed but once inside a completely different experience awaits. The accommodation is now contemporary and elegantly stylish although traditional features are still evident along with over 500 works of art on display but overall the feeling is one of 5* luxury.

Lying largely on the left bank of the Bernesga river, León was founded in Roman times and is one of Spain's greatest cities. The Reconquista originated here but sadly, despite being the capital of the province and having much to offer both in terms of historical architecture and social interaction, it is the least visited of Spain's cathedral cities. It is, however, popular with modern day pilgrims following the Way of St James and there are some beautiful buildings including its star attraction by far, the cathedral with its impressive stained glass, Casa Botines, a building by Gaudi and, of course, the Parador on the Plaza de San Marcos. With a cosmopolitan population the atmosphere is lively with a good choice of inviting cafés, restaurants and bars, particularly in the plazas & the old quarter - Barrio Húmedo