Parador de Cardona

Impressive building

Access was at the top of a mountain with difficult access

You can expect the standard friendly services of a Parador. Check in process was easy, and guests are free to explore the castle ground. Spend some time to explore the interior and the cloister. I visited the church in the morning. I had the whole church for myself for 20 minutes and it was amazing. Dinner of local cuisine was top-notch, while breakfast was extensive but no huge variety of hot dishes. It is also worth spending time at the top floor cafeteria both inside and in the courtyard

I didn’t drive and took the bus from Barcelona. It was quite easy to get to Cardona (2 hours). However from the bus stop in town there is almost no other way to get to the Parador but walk the steep slope. If you have suitcases, plan well ahead to organise some car transport from Cardona town and back. I only took a backpack so the walk wasn’t difficult, but at 42 degrees in mid afternoon it wasn’t a pleasant hike

Impressive 9th century castle Well decorated and maintained Good food at the restaurant Great views and options to experience the building

Fantastic old castle, renovated into a hotel. Stunning views and truly a remarkable old building.

Not very clean. Beautiful evening meal spoilt by staff noisily setting up for next days breakfast.