Hacienda Zorita: The Best Place to Stay Near Salamanca
*Disclosure: I only recommend products/services that I would use myself & all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links meaning that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission which in turn helps fund my next adventure! Please read the Privacy Policy for more information.
There are some hotels that are beautiful, and then there are hotels that completely take your breath away. Hacienda Zorita, just outside Salamanca, Spain, is one of the latter. From the moment my mom and I arrived, we were both stunned. The drive from the train station took us through quiet countryside lined with vineyards and rustic stone buildings until the property finally appeared. It was timeless, serene, and absolutely breathtaking.
We arrived early and, even though a private wedding was happening on the grounds, the staff could not have been more kind or accommodating. From the first few moments, it was clear that this was not just another luxury stay. Hacienda Zorita feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying every modern comfort, a mix that few hotels pull off so effortlessly.
The Story Behind Hacienda Zorita
Originally built in the 14th century, Hacienda Zorita began as a Dominican monastery nestled along the banks of the Tormes River. Its walls hold centuries of stories, and perhaps the most fascinating is that Christopher Columbus once stayed here while seeking support for his journey to the Americas.
Today, that same sense of history and discovery is woven into every corner of the estate. The hotel has been lovingly restored, balancing old-world character with understated luxury. Think stone archways, vaulted ceilings, antique wooden beams, and rooms that still use heavy skeleton-style keys instead of plastic key cards. It is the kind of place where you can feel the history all around you, yet nothing about it feels dated.
The atmosphere is tranquil, romantic, and deeply authentic. It is the kind of quiet that makes you slow down and truly appreciate where you are. Whether you are sipping local wine in the courtyard or strolling past the vineyards at sunset, Hacienda Zorita feels less like a hotel and more like a peaceful retreat suspended in time.
Where Hacienda Zorita Is Located
Hacienda Zorita is situated in the peaceful countryside just ten minutes outside of Salamanca, one of Spain’s most charming and historic university towns. It sits along the banks of the Tormes River, surrounded by vineyards and fields that make you feel worlds away from the busy streets of Madrid or Barcelona.
The location could not be better. You are close enough to Salamanca to easily explore the city’s golden sandstone architecture and lively tapas bars, yet far enough to enjoy a completely different side of Spain.
If you are planning a trip to Salamanca, I highly recommend pairing your stay at Hacienda Zorita with a few days in the city itself. You can read my Salamanca itinerary for ideas on what to see, where to eat, and how to make the most of your visit.
Getting There and Transportation Options
Getting to Hacienda Zorita from Madrid is simple and scenic. My mom and I took the high-speed train from Madrid to Salamanca, which took just under two hours. From there, we grabbed a taxi directly to the hotel. The ride was about fifteen to twenty minutes and cost around 25 euros. Salamanca was an add-on destination after we spent five days in Madrid, and it was the perfect way to end our time in Spain.
Finding a taxi at the Salamanca train station can take a little patience, especially if you arrive during a quieter time of day, and fewer drivers speak English compared to Madrid. Still, everyone we interacted with was friendly and familiar with the hotel. The moment we said “Hacienda Zorita,” the driver knew exactly where to go.
The drive itself was lovely. We passed olive trees, stone farmhouses, and wide-open views of the Castilian countryside before turning down the tree-lined road that leads to the property.
If you prefer to drive, Hacienda Zorita is roughly two hours by car from Madrid, and parking is available on-site. The property is also an easy stop if you are on a road trip through Spain’s Castilla y León region or visiting other nearby destinations like Segovia or Ávila. We took day trips from Madrid to both Segovia & Ávila, and they’re definitely worth seeing!
Inside Hacienda Zorita
Walking through Hacienda Zorita feels like entering a storybook. Every corner of the property has a sense of timelessness, yet it never feels outdated or old-fashioned. The entire estate has been carefully restored to preserve its 14th-century charm while still offering modern comforts.
You will see original stone walls, centuries-old arches, and wooden ceiling beams that have stood the test of time. What I loved most was how seamlessly these historic details blended with the hotel’s minimalist design. Nothing feels overdone. It is elegant in the most natural way possible.
One of my favorite little touches was the room key — a classic skeleton key instead of a plastic card. It instantly made me feel like I was staying somewhere special. From the old monastery architecture to the peaceful sounds of the river just outside, the property feels romantic and deeply rooted in history.
And, even though it is full of character, the hotel still feels luxurious. The service is polished and refined without being pretentious, and you can sense that the staff truly wants guests to enjoy the tranquility of this place. It truly is the kind of hotel that invites you to slow down and savor every moment. And we were in awe the entirety of our stay!
Rooms and Suites at Hacienda Zorita
We stayed in one of the Superior Rooms, located inside the original monastery building, and it could not have been more perfect. Our window looked directly over the river, giving us the most beautiful sunset views in the evening. The room itself was minimalist and cozy, with warm lighting, stone floors, and rustic wooden beams that made it feel authentic and homey. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the quiet setting made it easy to relax after exploring Salamanca all day.
If you are trying to decide which room type to book, here’s a quick breakdown of the different categories and what you can expect from each:
Camara Rooms
These are the entry-level rooms found inside the original monastery. They have that classic “old-world” charm with exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and big windows overlooking the river or gardens.
Best for: First-time visitors who want history and comfort without the splurge
Starting rate: Around $230–240 USD per night (≈ €200)
Deluxe Rooms (and Deluxe with Terrace)
A little larger and located in the Casa Grande section, these rooms often include small balconies or terraces with vineyard or river views.
Best for: Couples looking for extra space and romantic sunset views
Starting rate: Around $240–270 USD per night (≈ €205–233)
Villas by the Vineyard
For something extra special, the villas are newer standalone rooms surrounded by vineyards and greenery. Each one has a private terrace and large windows that let in tons of natural light.
Best for: Honeymooners, wine lovers, or anyone craving more privacy
Starting rate: Around $260–290 USD per night (≈ €225–245)
Signature Suites and Deluxe Villas
The top-tier accommodation at Hacienda Zorita includes spacious suites with separate living areas, double bathrooms, and sweeping river or vineyard views. They combine luxury with historic charm in the most seamless way.
Best for: Special occasions or anyone wanting a full luxury experience
Starting rate: Around $300–320 USD per night (≈ €259–275)
Each room category at Hacienda Zorita blends comfort, history, and understated luxury in its own way. Whether you are waking up to the sound of the river in the monastery or sipping wine on a terrace surrounded by vines, every corner of this property feels timeless and unforgettable.
Dining at Hacienda Zorita
If there’s one thing you absolutely cannot miss during your stay at Hacienda Zorita, it’s the food! The culinary experience here perfectly matches the atmosphere — refined but relaxed, and deeply rooted in the flavors of the Spanish countryside.
Breakfast alone could convince anyone to stay another night. It’s complimentary with your stay and one of the most impressive breakfast spreads I’ve seen on any trip to Spain. There are platters of local cheeses, cured meats, pastries, fresh fruits, and warm dishes that rotate daily. The quality and variety were outstanding, and everything felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared. I still talk about it and show off pictures to this day!
After experiencing such an incredible breakfast, we couldn’t resist dining at the on-site restaurant, Zorita’s Kitchen, which focuses on farm-to-table cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. They pick most of the produce in their dishes straight from the on-site garden; you can’t get any fresher than that! The restaurant is indoors with windows looking out to the patio and gardens, creating the perfect setting for an elegant but cozy evening meal.
For dinner, I ordered a perfectly cooked steak paired with local wine. We also ordered a decadent quinoa salad and a delicious Torrija dessert. Everything was phenomenal. Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but completely worth it. If you’re celebrating something special, this is the place to do it.
Spa and Wellness
The Hacienda Zorita Wine & Olive Spa is where time really slows down. It’s housed in the oldest building on the property, a watermill dating back to 780. It’s a charming stone building just a short walk from the main monastery, and from the moment you walk in, it feels like a retreat within a retreat. The setting is rustic yet elegant, with exposed wooden beams, soft lighting, and the calming scent of essential oils in the air.
I booked a traditional massage during my stay, and it was one of the most relaxing spa experiences I’ve ever had. The treatment rooms are quiet and private, and the therapists are warm, professional, and intuitive. I left feeling completely refreshed — exactly what you want from a countryside escape like this.
The spa also offers wine-inspired treatments, using natural ingredients sourced from the vineyard itself. If you have extra time, I highly recommend booking a full wellness package to make your stay even more memorable. They also have a jacuzzi that you can book for just $30 if you want a hands-off approach to relaxation.
Why Stay at Hacienda Zorita
Hacienda Zorita is one of those rare hotels that stays with you long after you’ve checked out. It blends history, comfort, and authenticity in a way that feels effortless. You’ll wake up to the sound of the river flowing outside your window, sip wine made from the surrounding vineyards, and fall asleep in a place that has hosted guests for centuries — including Christopher Columbus himself.
What I love most about this property is that it gives you a true sense of place. Every corner feels intentional, from the stone monastery walls to the vineyard paths that invite quiet morning walks. It’s luxurious without ever feeling pretentious, and romantic without being over the top.
Whether you’re visiting Salamanca for a quick escape from Madrid or planning a full Spain itinerary, Hacienda Zorita is worth making time for. It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, and anyone who loves history, wine, and beautiful spaces that tell a story.
If you’re planning your trip to Salamanca, you can also check out my Salamanca itinerary for nearby things to do, day-trip ideas, and restaurant recommendations to pair perfectly with your stay.
Happy travels!
-Tess
Looking for more information about Spain? Check out these articles!
Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!