Castile-León, or Castilla y León, is a region of hilltop castle fortresses, grand medieval cities with monumental churches, lush vineyards and vast open plains. The cuisine is exceptional, and the history fascinating. Our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Castile-León includes everything from converted historic fortresses and monasteries to ultra-modern vineyard hotels and cosy B&Bs. Heritage towns, beautiful landscapes and hillside castles await!

Amongst the largest regions in Spain, this is also one of the least travelled. The area’s most famous hub is undoubtedly Salamanca, its gorgeous architecture characterised by the glowing sandstone quarried just beyond the town. Don’t miss the dazzling Plaza Mayor, with its old and new cathedrals, the striking university buildings and the unusual House of Shells. Fans of Romanesque architecture will adore wandering the streets of Zamora and of UNESCO-listed Segovia, both of which are lined with impressive heritage buildings.

The legendary Camino de Santiago de Compostela winds its way through Castile-León. Burgos, with its stunning Gothic cathedral, has been a key pilgrimage sites for hundreds of years — as has Leon. Expect plenty of historic landmarks, fantastic eateries and a lively evening scene in each of these cities. Valladolid, the region's capital, is viewed by many as the gateway to Northern Spain. Beyond these towns and cities, you’ll find characterful little villages and lovely natural landscapes, perfect for hiking, cycling and horse riding. Speak to the teams at the best places to stay in Castile-León — they will be on hand to help you plan your adventures.

The Best Places to Stay in Castile-León

FOR SIMPLE CHARM

• Hostal Albany Ancha offers attractive and affordable rooms with exposed brick walls and crisp white linens in León's old town. The best rooms have views over the cathedral. Kick back on the sun terrace or enjoy regional cuisine in the restaurant. A lovely base.
• Hotel Alda Vía León is a charming little B&B with polished wooden floors, exposed beams and warm hues. Rooms have cast iron beds and a cosy traditional feel. Breakfasts are served in the dining room, and the wonders of León are right on your doorstep. Great value.
• Zenit el Coloquio is a contemporary hotel set behind a red-brick façade in the heart of Valladolid. Interiors are simple yet stylish, with blue-painted walls, light wood and original artwork. The monochromatic tiled bathrooms feel particularly smart. Savour tapas and wine in the coutryard after days of exploring.
• Posada La Carteria has just eight guestrooms, each with contemporary furnishings within a traditional setting. Think exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings set against the crisp, clean lines of modern furniture, with white, red and grey tones. The gym, spa and restaurant complete the experience in Puebla de Sanabria.
• Parador de Zamora, formerly the palace of the Counts of Alba de Aliste, is now a beautiful historic hotel with stacks of Renaissance charm in Zamora. Interiors feature stone floors and long galleries, whilst the 52 rooms have intricate tapestries, glittering chandeliers and four-poster beds. There's a pool and lovely gardens, too.

FOR ROMANCE

• Hotel Landa is a beautifully preserved 14th-century tower with elegant guestrooms decorated in cream tones, with draped four-posters and big bathtubs. The two restaurants are excellent, and the swimming pool is nothing short of fabulous. Family-owned and brimming with heritage charm, this is a sophisticated spot on the edge of Burgos, ideal for romantics.
• Hotel La Farm, just moments from the imposing Royal Site of San Ildefonso, is a chic little boutique B&B with a warm contemporary feel. The hotel's community-conscious ethos creates a wonderful atmosphere, with connections to arts and wellness events at La Farm. Intimate and romantic.
• Valbusena Hotel Bodega & Spa is a superb five-star hotel with a strong focus on tranquility. Romantics will adore the sense of calm, with spacious rooms overlooking the vineyards and the swimming pool. The spa is sensational. Ultra-modern bliss.
• Hotel Rector has just 13 spacious guestrooms set behind a classic stone façade in Salamanca's city centre. A chic B&B base with cream and gold furnishings, embroidered linens and an effortless sense of style. Speak to the team for top city recommendations.
• Grand Hotel Don Gregorio also has a sophisticated feel, with 17 contemporary rooms featuring polished wooden floors, crisp white linens and indulgent bathrooms. The full spa, stylish bar and gourmet restaurant all add to the appeal of this romantic Salamanca bolthole.
• Castillo del Buen Amor is a beautiful castle surrounded by verdant gardens and its own vineyards. Opulent rooms and suites have vaulted or coffered ceilings, rich tapestries and cosy beds. The regional restaurant is excellent, and the wine tastings are a real treat. No children under 13. Simply wonderful.

FOR FAMILIES

• El Batán del Molino is an 11th-century flour mill in the Arlanza River Valley, slightly south of Burgos. Traditional rooms have space for families, who will adore the swimming pool, the leafy garden with covered BBQ area, and the friendly feel. For relaxed holidaymakers of all ages.
• Finca Fuente Techada is a fabulous family-run escape, with characterful guestrooms clad in warm, bright textiles. The semi-wild garden is wonderful for little ones, who will also love mushroom and berry picking nearby in season. A laid-back country escape for the whole family.

For Foodies

• Hacienda Zorita Wine Hotel & Spa, set on the Tormes River, offers traditional guestrooms in a restored 700-year-old monastery. Think thick stone walls, exposed oak beams, a refreshing swimming pool and carefully manicured gardens. Michelin-starred Chef Victor Gutiérrez heads up the acclaimed restaurant. A rural gem.

For Outdoorsy Types

• Fuente Plateada, close to the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, has just 11 rustic rooms with stone walls and iron bedsteads. The flower-filled gardens and easygoing restaurant are lovely. Hop aboard complimentary bikes or follow hiking trails through the countryside.
• Posada Mingaseda is a charming countryside inn with striking views over the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains. Kick back in the sauna and hot tub, and feast on regional specialities after days of hiking and cycling. Rooms are cosy and traditional, with exposed beams and floral fabrics.

FOR HERITAGE LUXURY

• Real Colegiata de San Isidoro was consecrated in 1063 and remains one of the finest Romanesque buildings in León. Now a heritage hotel, it offers comfortable rooms and suites decorated in elegant cream tones. The big draw is the setting, complete with a historic library, frescoed Royal Pantheon and the intriguing San Isidoro Museum. The restaurant's daily-changing menu showcases top local produce. A real treat.
• Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine is a fabulously restored 12th-century abbey with 30 indulgent rooms and suites. An imposing golden stone building, the abbey overlooks the hotel's own vineyards, and boasts a courtyard garden, a gourmet restaurant in the vaulted former chapel, and a stunning swimming pool. The wine tastings are superb. A luxurious rural retreat for romantics, close to Valladolid.
• Caserío de Lobones is a gorgeous luxury hotel in a secluded 17th-century manor house surrounded by gardens and woods. Each of the ten rooms is unqiue, with floral textiles, original paintings and pastel shades. With a swimming pool, great restaurant and stacks of activities for guests of all ages, this is a superb spot.
• Parador de León is a beautiful five-star hotel housed in a converted convent. The grand 16th-century building's past is reflected in its impressive interiors, with rooms featuring antiques and four-poster beds. Sip northern Spanish wines at the glamorous bar before feasting at the fantastic restaurant. Superb.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Valladolid Airport, or to the larger hubs of Madrid Barajas Airport or Santander-Seve Ballesteros Airport. Travel to your destination in Castile-Léon by train, bus or taxi from there. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Castile-Léon is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect a warm and sunny climate throughout much of the year, with temperatures averaging at around 28°C - 35°C between April and Septmeber. Do be aware that the summer is peak holiday season, but slightly cooler spring and autumn temperatures may be more appealing for exploring. You'll also find fewer crowds outside the school holiays in April, May or late September.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Valladolid.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Castile-La Mancha.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.