We say a sad farewell to the Parador. Paradores are an impressive Spanish phenomenon, government owned, run by the National Heritage Service. They are either historic and quirky or more modern but in incredible locations. Started in 1928, they are supposedly low-cost for the good of all the people, but that particular characteristic seems to have gone astray over the years.
There are 98 across the country, and this is the third we have stayed in. Our first destination is 2km away, but only for crows, it’s going to take 43 minutes and 31 km to get there.
The Mirador de Isora has views down to Las Playas, the beautiful bay we have called home for the last three days, and the stunning weather gives us the best view yet. Then we head off from here along a fairly tricky pathway, with ample opportunity to come a cropper on the way.
We head up through rough vegetation and small paths, a few roads and dotted houses, for 3.5km until we meet the HI-35 we used to get here, and then walk back along this road so we can take in the town of Isora.
We return to Villa de Valverde for the last time, this time to take a look round. It’s really interesting to see some of the buildings that have been used in the detective series Hierro, and we find a full list of locations. It’s hilly, and many pathways are cruel on the knees – finally we have found a rival to Positano!
We have another reason to be here, in search of quesadillas, a particular cake made here in town. Unfortunately the bakery has run out, and we are told the next batch won’t be ready until 14:30 which is too late. Given the non-stop procession of disappointed callers they must be something very special! Next time …
We are home before 18:00 despite a very bouncy crossing.
