I have been to Spain many times, but with kids on a chaperoned tour. I am retiring in 2012 and would like to take my small family on a trip just for us, never done this before. I know where I want to go in Spain, but I know nothing about how to do transportation and booking of rooms. I was hoping to stay in a Posada - old castle or monastery a couple of times, the rest could be more economical. Can you help me. Anita
Posted by
Ottawa
1446 posts
These two websites may help: http://www.parador.es/en/portal.do
http://castleandpalacehotels.com/countries/spain/spain_home/castle_hotels_spain.html The Paradors chain is well-established. They often have decent promotions and discounts - so keep checking for their "Golden" discounts and multi-night stays. Where in northern Spain do you want to go?
Posted by
OP
Parsons, Kansas, USA
3 posts
Thanks for the info. I will try those. We would like to go to Ávila, Madrid, Toledo, Escorial, Valley of the Fallen, Segovia, Barcelona, Figueres, maybe Monserrat and I had thought about somewhere in the Basque area, never been there. Anita
Posted by
Ottawa
1446 posts
How long are you planning for - how many nights?
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
Some recommendations: Toledo Spend at least one night there-Posada de Manolo is excellent...near the cathederal, so if you get lost you can find your way back...great hostal, and fantastic breakfast overlooking the cathederal. Madrid - I enjoy Hostal Montecarlo and Hostal Phillipe V - both in the same building on Gran Via, both clean and well run. Transportation: You can get to Toledo via the Renfe AVE fast train, 1/2 hour. Leave from Atocha Station. Take the taxi to the Posada de Manolo,and then see the rest of the city on foot. Not much parking for automobiles, and no need to have one there. Escorial - have not been there, but there is a train from the Charmartin Station, and a short walk I think to the Escorial. Valley of the Fallen - Have not been there, but from what I understand, it may be closed or have limited access. You can see the large cross from the motorway. Suggested guide: Moon Guide To Spain one of the best. General: Check www.madridman.com for suggested hotels, etc., and travelers comments...a good site. Great posada in Zamora - interesting town off the beaten tourist track. Just check on the web sites for lots of information. have a great trip!
Posted by
OP
Parsons, Kansas, USA
3 posts
Planning on a couple of weeks, may include a couple of cities together. I have wanted to stay around Toledo, so hope to find a place where we can make the visits to the other places from one locale. Thought about renting a car or taking the train to Barcelona. Not sure which would be the best. Not going till 2012 so am trying to get a leg up on the situation. Thanks for everything you all have told me. If you think of anything else, please post it. I will need all the help I can get. Anita