Jaen Parador

The fabulous Parador de Jaen, perched on the top of a mountain, part of the medieval Castillo de Santa Catalina, overlooking the city of Jaen and with views stretching for miles in every direction. In summer there is a lovely swimming pool and you could spend days just relaxing with a good book, soaking up sunshine and excellent food and wine. Each room has a balcony with view across to the olive clad mountains where eagles float on the up-draughts to the incessant chirruping of cicadas and the scent of herbs wafting on the warm breeze. It was the place where, on stepping out onto the balcony I stood in amazement at the literally breathtaking view, only to overhear our neighbours complain in a loud American whining twang: "Gee Honey, there's no cushion on the sun lounger!". You can't win them all!