There is a real wow factor when you walk into the parador of Zafra. The main courtyard is gorgeous and you really feel that you are staying in a castle. Yes, you pay more for a parador, but in this case, I think it is worth it. The room was comfortable and spacious and had a lovely view. The courtyard,... More

The 'but' here is security. I have stayed here several times, and have never liked the need to to park outside where (at least in winter) a variety of unsavoury people gather to drink, keep warm with a bonfire, and who knows what else! David G's experience (see his review of 25 April 2012) confirms my concern, although I have... More

We were made very welcome after an early start from England and a long drive from Madrid. We were given a very pleasant and quiet room overlooking a small courtyard. Parking was easy right in front of the hotel. The castle was full of history and even lists Hernan Cortes as one of its previous guests! After the long drive... More

This was my first Parador experience and it was lovely staying in a Castle/Palace. Located in the old town of Zafra we had a large room overlooking some bars. The room had a/c good TV but poor wi-fi. Although the wi-fi worked in other parts of the hotel ok. The buffet breakfast was great - served in the courtyard. We... More

Trying something else during holiday we choose to stay for 5 days in this Parador and we are both very happy we did. The old castle is just great and has a very good atmosphere. Although it was very hot outside, it is very comfortable inside. We will do this again! Other Paradores we have seen during our trip gave... More

Stayed in the former wine cellar part of the castle in a 'family suite' comprising two large clean and comfortable twin rooms and a huge seperate lounge with HD TV in out of season August. It was roasting hot outside, but lovely and cool in the rooms with huge thick walls to keep the heat out plus effective air conditioning.... More

This parador was very nice. My wife and I enjoyed the excellent room and the interesting and historic surroundings. Zafra is a wonderful place to eat and shop as well.. This hotel is worth going out of the way for. Make sure you ask for keys to climb up onto the castle walls.

This is a nice place, typical parador actually. Agree with the gentleman below regarding vehicle security and security in general. However, our stay was uneventful. I assume the economic situation is hitting paradors too, this one was very empty. Hence the breakfasts looked tired. The staff were good, and the place was clean. Go again? Nah..... once is enough.

If you don't know, the Spanish Paradores are luxury hotels first founded in 1928 by King Alfonso the 13th. They are rehabilitated monasteries or castles; this one is a former castle. What a treat to stay in an old castle in utter comfort and style. The beautiful courtyard has a center fountain (formerly the water well, I assume), tables, chairs,... More