Parador de Lerma 4*

In the highest part of town and once the Ducal palace, Lerma's lovely Parador stands on the site of a 15th century castle. Converted into a Parador in 2003, it offers a magnificent architectural backdrop for the rich tapestries, original paintings and antique furniture, especially the central colonnaded Patio de Polaños, the building's focal point and the ideal place for pre-dinner drinks. As well as a cafeteria and bar, it has 2 restaurants, one that features local specialities on its menu including wood-fired roast lamb and desserts to die for. Garage parking 15€/night.

South of Burgos on the Arlanza river is the impressive town of Lerma, dominated by the Ducal Palace built in 1601 as the Duke's residence and a hunting lodge for King Felipe III. It is no doubt the town's most impressive feature and stands majestically on the Plaza Mayor but the most important feature is perhaps the collegiate church of San Pedro, which overlooks the water and dates back to the 17th century. Other sites of importance are the Santa Teresa Convent, the San Blas monastery and the Monasterio de la Ascension. If you are lucky enough to be visiting at the beginning of August, there is a spectacular village fiesta and parade that is well worth seeing.

Covarrubias and Santo Domingo del Silos are both nearby and these, along with Lerma, make up the famous Triangle of Arlanza - the 3 most important villages of historical and cultural interest linked by the Arlanza river.