The Parador de Ciudad Rodrigo is located between the energetic cultural life of Salamanca and the wonderful charm of Portugal's Aldeias Históricas (Historical Villages). The hotel, once the castle of Henry II of Trastámara, overlooks the town from atop a high precipice like an eagle's nest. The elegant keep stands above the Águeda River plain, offering wonderful views of the countryside of the Campo Charro region. You will not fail to admire the stone arcades in the dining room, or thetraditional Salamanca cuisine, including delicious charcuterie, tasty roasted meats and the best Ibérico ham. It is excellent! And if you imagine your wedding day in a medieval setting, or you would simply like to have a different kind of celebration, this is the ideal spot, because we offer unique theme weddings.
Immerse yourself in history. Ciudad Rodrigo has been declared an Area of Artistic-Historical Importance. It offers wonderful Roman and medieval architecture. The entire city is walled, inviting you to enjoy a lovely walk along the 2-kilometer perimeter. Wander the streets filled with palaces and stately homes, and discover the Plaza Mayor (Main Square) with its 16th-century Town Hall, the imposing cathedral, and more.
This beautiful and historic city is just over 80 kilometers from Salamanca (45 minutes by highway), and 25 kilometers from the Portuguese border. Ciudad Rodrigo is the heart of the area and from here you can visit such unique places as La Alberca and other villages in the Sierra de Francia mountains, with maze-like streets, stone houses with wooden balconies, lovely squares and fountains. You will feel as if time has stood still. There is also Almeida, in Portugal, a walled site and former defensive fortification on the border between the two countries.
Arribes del Duero Nature Reserve is another paradise that awaits you on the border between Zamora and Portugal. With a Mediterranean microclimate and exotic North African flora, it is the last refuge of species such as the juniper and hackberry tree. It also guards treasures like the Pozo de los Humos, an incredible 40-meter waterfall.
Visiting the scenic overlooks and taking a boat ride along the gentle waters of the Douro River, spotting the many birds that nest there, offer a one-of-a-kind experience.