THE FACTS ABOUT CASTILLO DE SIGüENZA

Spain

For sheer architectural beauty, the greatest of the castle paradors is the Castillo de Sigüenza, with a sprawling 12th-century Moorish citadel that was later transformed into a bishop's palace. The medieval interior, a fantastical mix of real and pastiche, includes an enormous lounge with a wood-beam ceiling. Some of the richly decorated rooms overlook the enormous courtyard, where you can easily imagine jousts and tournaments taking place. Continue your medieval daydreaming by walking into the well-preserved but little-known jewel of a town. ROOMS Doubles from £50 CONTACT Castillo de Sigüenza, Pza. Del Castillo, S/N 19250 Sigüenza, Guadalajara (00 34 9 49 39 01 00; fax: 39 13 64; email:siguenza@parador.es; www.parador.es) WHO TO GO WITH To book from the UK call Keytel International (020 7 402 8182). Other tour operators offering parador trips include Castaways (01737 812255), Magic of Spain (020 8939 5452), Abreu Travel (020 7 229 9905) and Traveller's Way (01527 559000). It is worth asking about special offers such as the Go As You Please (Tarjeta Cinquo Noches) deal, a booklet of five vouchers costing £240 which entitles you to five nights' accommodation (for two people sharing) in one or more paradors, subject to conditions and availability.