Parador of Chinchón (Madrid)

Chinchón is just 50 kilometres from Madrid which almost makes it the parador of the Spanish capital. If you want to visit Madrid while you are in Spain, but want to avoid staying in an overpriced hotel surrounded by bustle and noise, then Chinchon is a good choice.

Chinchón is a pretty village with a beautiful central plaza surrounded by old buildings. The parador in Chinchon is set in the building of an impressive seventeenth century convent (photos will be published soon).

You can get to Chinchon by car either along the N-IV road (take the junction with the main 404 road, through Ciempozuelos), or the A-3 dual carriageway, by the Puente de Arganda, linking up with the M-311 road. Once you get to the town entrance, follow the signs to the Plaza if you can't see any signs to the parador (we couldn't find any). Whatever you do, don't follow any signs pointing you up a hill towards the town center. You won't be able to find the parador, and you will end up driving back down the hill again, somewhat confused.

Once (if!) you get to Chinchon parador, you won't be disappointed. The building is well-looked after, and the service is friendly and professional. Rooms are simple, clean and comfortable and the parador has a nice swimming pool open during the Summer months. It is peaceful and relaxing, and visitors coming from the bustle of Madrid will welcome the change. The restaurant offers dishes typical of this area - roasted meat and stews. Chinchon parador is a popular choice for residential meetings and offsites of companies from Madrid, so it is advisable not only to book a room in advance but also a table if you intend to lunch or dine in the parador restaurant (the restaurant in Chinchon parador is one of the few parador restaurants to accept reservations).

Make sure you visit the Plaza Mayor, Chinchon's beautiful main town square. Unfortunately, the square has to accommodate vehicles and too many shops all selling the same "typical" products to visitors, but it is still worth a visit.