Paradores, Spain's state-run hotel network, strengthens its commitment to driving the sustainable transformation of the hospitality sector. As outlined in its new 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, Paradores is focused on promoting building energy efficiency, circularity across its property portfolio through improved resource and waste management, as well as promoting sustainable tourism.

Over the 5-year period, Paradores will invest a total of €334 million to support the plan's implementation. This includes the allocation of €200 million to property refurbishment, €25 million to energy efficiency and €20 million to foster technological transformation.

In line with this ongoing commitment, Paradores has announced a new partnership with Renfe, Spain's national railway company, to jointly offer rail travel with accommodation in Parador hotels throughout Spain. Renfe's high-speed trains are powered by renewable energy and emit less CO2 per passenger per kilometre than cars or planes, making them a more environmentally friendly option for travellers. Renfe customers will be able to book Parador hotels directly through the Renfe website or mobile app, making it easier to plan itineraries and book accommodations in one place. 

Paradores has also extended its eco-tourism programme, “Naturaleza para los Sentidos”, to include Paradores Almagro and Parador Manzanares, both located in Castilla La Mancha, Parador Cazorla in Andalusia, and Paradores Vic, Arties and Vielha (Catalonia). The programme represents a new style of travel that generates social, environmental and economic benefits in the areas where the hotels are located, with a strong focus on nature and biodiversity.  

A range of new experiences have been made available at both hotels, including a workshop on how to cultivate pistachios and olives and uncover their health benefits, a visit to an eco-friendly farm, home to the Castilian black hen which is currently in danger of extinction, and a winery tour to uncover the link between product and nature, accompanied with a tasting of artisan wines and regional tapas. 

Already implemented at the Parador Cangas de Onís, Bielsa, Villafranca del Bierzo, Gredos and Mazagón, the programme will be rolled out to 20 Paradores in total.

Pedro Saura, President of Paradores, says:  

“Paradores is committed to being a flagship for sustainable tourism while preserving cultural heritage in Spain. We're accelerating meaningful changes in our business, and we're committed to driving the hospitality sector towards a more sustainable model. An example is our commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 (scope 1 and 2). It's a goal we must all work together to help build a more sustainable future”.

Working to achieve Net Zero by 2030, Paradores is promoting both energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources across its entire network, while offsetting excess CO2 emissions. To date, all electricity consumed across its hotels is 100% renewable, and since 2019, 100% of single-use plastic has been eliminated from bedrooms, as well as plastic straws, bottles and tableware.

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About Paradores Hotels & Restaurants: 

Established in 1928, Paradores is a network of Spanish state-run hotels found in some of the most beautiful settings on the Iberian Peninsula spanning converted monasteries, Manor Houses, Moorish castles, luxurious resorts as well as some exceptional modern properties.

 Paradores is committed to providing travellers with the opportunity to explore top cities, regional gems and experience nature while discovering the absolute best in Spanish culture, leisure activities, and gastronomy. Paradores is driven to protect the country's historical and cultural assets, breathing new life into prestigious buildings, and putting lesser-known regions onto the map. 

Media contacts: 

For more information, please visit https://paradores.es/en  or to discuss an opportunity, please email paradores@wearelotus.co.uk   

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