Parador de Manzanares

Don't bother till it improves, air conditioning not working, toilet didn't flush, windows in bar filthy. Located next to motorway Grounds not appealing

This Parador is situated just off the motorway and is easily accessible. It is perfect for breaking a long journey in comfortable and friendly surroundings

We have stayed in a lot of different Paradors over many years and this time was the first that we had been disappointed. It is a purpose built hotel on edge of town, right by the side of the motorway. There was plenty of outdoor parking, some of which provided shading from the sun. We enjoyed the outdoor pool and sun terrace although there was a lot of noise from the motorway traffic. As is usual at a Parador there were English speaking staff on reception and at the bar. However, there were none in restaurant which did cause some issues. The whole hotel looks tired and is in need of at least some redecoration. This was the first time we had a room in a Parador without slippers and gowns. However, this proved to be the same at the other two Paradors in which we stayed so perhaps it has been stopped now. A shame as it was one of the little touches that stood Paradors apart from other hotels. The bathroom was particularly tired and the shaving mirror incorrectly fitted so that it rotated left and right rather than up and down. This meant you had to bend down to use it. We have enjoyed some great meals in the restaurants at Paradors, this was not one of them. Although, at dinner, the restaurant was less than half full the service was rushed, leading to mistakes. The waitress who seemed to be in charge seemed to create an air of tension amongst the other waitresses. I ordered turbot. When it arrived half of it was uncooked. My wife had a lamb shank which came with no vegetables nor an option to order any. It was the same shambolic service at breakfast. The same person who was stressing staff at dinner was in charge with the same results. First, she brought coffee to the table, which we had not ordered. We wanted tea. Second, she took an order for a cooked breakfast from me but not my wife. As it happened, she did not want anything cooked but she should have at least been asked. The waitress then brought three plates for the two of us. Between them they contained the one order that I had made. They also had two items that had not been ordered at all.

great location when heading to the Costas from Santander. Great valur=e for money. Food excellent but rooms are a little bit tired, like a lot of the paradores. Pet friendly