In the heart of the Galician region of Terra Chá, in the town of Vilalba, lies a hotel with a remarkable story. Its fate is closely intertwined with one of the most influential figures in 20th-century Spanish politics. This Paradores hotel was once the smallest in Spain, offering just six rooms within the walls of an ancient medieval tower. Decades later, it has preserved its historic charm while transforming into a modern hotel complex, remaining a landmark along the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
The appearance of this parador in 1967 was the result of a personal initiative by Manuel Fraga Iribarne. A Vilalba native and then Minister of Information and Tourism, he played a key role in turning the old local inn into part of the prestigious national hotel network. This project was part of his far-reaching campaign to promote Spain’s tourist brand under the iconic slogan ‘Spain is different’. The site chosen for the new hotel was the Torre de los Andrade—a 15th-century keep and the only surviving part of the Andrade Counts’ castle. In its early years, this modest three-star hotel with just six rooms held the unofficial title of the smallest hotel in Spain.
For a long time, Parador de Vilalba remained a quiet, unassuming gem of Galician tourism. Everything changed at the turn of the millennium, when a decision was made to expand the property. In 2000, a new wing—designed in the style of a traditional pazo estate—was built next to the historic tower. This added 42 modern rooms and raised the hotel’s classification to four stars. The authenticity of the complex was carefully preserved: inside the ancient keep, the original six rooms remain, along with the majestic Andrade Hall, whose walls are adorned with coats of arms and frescoes that harken back to its aristocratic past.
Today, the hotel is a harmonious blend of history, architecture, and Galicia’s renowned hospitality. Its location makes it an ideal stop on the Northern Route of the Camino de Santiago, close to landmarks like Mondoñedo and Lugo. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, with rivers, lush valleys, and hiking trails leading to scenic spots such as Charca del Alligal lake or the Serra do Xistral mountain range.
In addition to its cultural value, the Parador attracts travelers with its appealing offers. For winter 2025, highly attractive rates are planned. Throughout November and much of December, nightly prices on many dates drop below 100 euros, with some days as low as 94 euros. This is a great opportunity to plan an unforgettable trip to one of the most unique corners of the Lugo province, where the centuries-old stones of the Andrade tower meet modern comfort.
