Fodor's Expert Review Parador de Gijón

This is one of the most dressed-down and inviting paradores in Spain, and most rooms have wonderful views over the lake or park. These compensate for the small, plain interiors (wood floors and pine shutters). In the restaurant, try specialty cheeses from Asturias, meat and seafood brochettes, or stewed fabes (white beans) with sausage and pork. The property is a bit of a hike from the old town and occupies an old water mill in a park not far from the San Lorenzo Beach.