Well, I'd certainly come back here again! This is the second time I've stayed at a Parador (first was in Antequera), and both times the experience has been exceptional. It's true that the exterior of the recently renovated Cádiz hotel is, to my mind, a not-very-attractive modern style (okay, I'll just say it - UGLY) and that at street-level it appears at first glance to be in a fairly mundane setting. But take a slightly longer look around, or better still go up to a higher level inside the hotel, and you find it's actually in a very good location, with the Caleta Beach on one side, and the Parque Genovese botanical garden on the other. It lives up to its Atlantico name, too – right on the sea-front with the ocean stretching away into the distance.
Our superior room on the sixth floor was wonderful. It was already big, but with a picture window and balcony to let in the light and give an added sense of spaciousness, it felt quite palatial. Great view of the Castillo San Sebastian and the ocean beyond – and of a spectacular sunset too (though the flashing of the lighthouse during the night was a mild annoyance). Useful sized desk with suitcase platform, headboard shelves, well thought out lighting, and a couple of easy chairs, too. Also great were the walk-in shower and a massive 2 metre long bathtub; so nice to be able to stretch out in lots of hot water!
sunset view from balcony
When we first arrived and were getting settled in I realised how thirsty I was and suddenly there was a knock on the door. A waiter stood there offering a very welcome chilled bottle of mineral water. Later after we returned from lunch I kept looking at that long stone tub thinking a good lazy bath would be just the thing. Another knock on the door. This time we were brought a couple of chocolate desserts and a selection of fragrant bath salts. Like, what? Was the Parador reading my mind? So I tried conjuring up a nice bottle of cava, but that one didn't work. Still, between all that and fluffy robes and our cosy table out on the terrace, it was almost a shame we had ot go out and explore the rest of Cádiz.
Hotel facilities generally were what you'd expect from a good 4-star hotel. Functioning Wi-Fi throughout, a couple of big swimming pools (including an all-year indoor pool) and sauna and solarium (looking a little wind-swept in November, but clearly would be great in the summer). Likewise the dining areas had seafront terraces that are in use outside the winter months and would make you feel like you are eating and drinking directly over the Atlantic. There was a plentiful breakfast in an breakfast room alongside the pool area, which we enjoyed at a table overlooking the park.
Paradors are pricy, of course, but it's well worth checking the website for special offers. I'd come back here in a heartbeat, especially as Cádiz is one of my favourite cities. Parador Hotel Atlantico Avenida Duque de Nájera, 9 Tel: +34 956 226 905