On tour through Spanish lands I stopped for two days in the charismatic Convento de La Parra.

Almost willing to proclaim "I will not move nor be moved by anyone", I confess that I felt its soul as soon as I entered the main cloister. The bright, clear light shrouded the arches, the tank water whispered quiet melodies and the shady seats by the orange trees invited us to sit still.

Thus, as soon as I left the luggage in my room, formerly an ancient cell, I spun around and followed my feet wherever they took me, in exploration of each nook and cranny. Yes, because we must go up and down stairs that lead us almost to heaven, to discover the charm of the old chapel, the library and other secret quarters, such as the old door that leads to the belfry, where one can see the wavy plains and everything around and the storks of course, great companions during all the trip.

But it is in the upper floor of the Convento de La Parra that we most want to stay, for the sheer whiteness of the lime that lines the walls that exude wellbeing and also for the comfort of the big, soft sofas that invite laziness and then, I grab my book and almost forget I exist.

At dusk when hunger presses I am presented with various delicacies, in the true local spirit, whose flavours sharpen my taste buds

Back in my room I am thankful for the peace of the place and dream of the following day: A radiant day that leads me through the "roads of water" up to the simple, reserved, magical swimming pool.

A special place where I would like to return one day.

Maria da Assunção Avillez is a Journalist of Caras Magazine.