Castle of Charles V

Hondarribia, Spain

The Castle of Charles V is located in the strategic area of Hondarribia, at its highest point. It still conserves the structure of a medieval fortress and its defensive appearance. It was built in the 10th century by King Sancho Abarca of Navarre, although it was subsequently reformed by Emperor Charles V. The building served as both a castle and a palace, both connected by an interior courtyard. The castle had a square floor plan with sturdy walls. Highlights of the main facade include the doorway, rather small in size and decorated with an arch framed by the characteristic Islamic moulding known as an alfiz, over which can be seen the imperial coat of arms with the two-headed eagle of Charles V. It has today been restored and converted into a Parador hotel.

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Details

Founded: 10th century AD
Category: Castles and fortifications in Spain

More Information

www.spainisculture.com

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

mb (6 months ago)
What a beautifully located hotel overlooking Hondarribia as well as Henday. Impressive welcome by Mikel and Maïté who made you feel welcome from the moment you stepped into the hotel. The building is beautiful and the rooms are comfortable and well equipped. Costas is a great barman. Breakfast buffet is extensive and a great selection of offerings. The inside of the hotel is like a museum worth visiting. On site parking is available but if you have a big car get used to some serious manoeuvring. Muchas Gracias to the whole team for making it such an enjoyable stay.
Sinmei (12 months ago)
Ninety-four Paradors are located in Spain, have you been one yet? We love this Parador right at the border of Spain & France over looking the ocean! Lovely surrounding! Not to mention there are nice seafood restaurants within walking distance! P.S the lady at the reception is really nice and she was sharing her own parador experience with us as well! So beautiful!
David Richards (2 years ago)
Doing basic research into our second Spanish road trip, hopefully happening in September 2022. We have stayed at several paradores in the past and without exception they are 5* establishments in every respect. They provide beautiful historic buildings with superb accomodation, first class service, fantastic food and wine and every parador we have stayed at, makes us feel very special guests. What a pity the U.K. does not have equivalent beautiful hotels.
Patrick Larvie (2 years ago)
When you stay in a Parador, the real reason is the building. This one is exceptional - a 10th century fortress in one of the prettiest villages in Spain. As with other Paradors, this one could use some help with furnishings (the bed in my room was rock hard and broken such that it actually woke me up at night) and services (why can't they email me a copy of my bill and let me check out online? Do they really need to make guests queue at reception for that?). In particular, this Parador would be better they had a restaurant. Still, it's a great overall experience and I'd gladly return.
robert von ancken (2 years ago)
This is a must stay if you are in this area. Beautiful views, in the center of activity and sights, interesting architecturally unique rooms. Be warned Front staff are a bit stiff and not to helpful.
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