From Santander: Potes, Santillana and Altamira Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Cantabria. Explore the charming village of Potes, discover the medieval allure of Santillana del Mar, and uncover the prehistoric wonders of the Altamira Cave. With private transportation and knowledgeable guides, this day tour promises an immersive experience. From the picturesque Liébana Mountains to the impressive rock art, there’s more to uncover than meets the eye.

Key Points

1. Explore the scenic Cantabrian destinations of Santillana del Mar, the Neocave of Altamira Cave, and the Cultural Heritage Site of Potes during this 11-hour excursion.

2. Enjoy an immersive experience with a live guide available in Spanish and English, and skip the lines to fully experience the attractions.

3. Discover the charming mountain town of Potes, known for its traditional architecture, steep streets, and wooden balconies, set against the stunning Liébana Mountains.

4. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Santillana del Mar, a historical town with a captivating medieval atmosphere and opportunities to indulge in local cuisine.

5. Visit the Neocave of Altamira Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases detailed replicas of the iconic Paleolithic rock art, providing insights into the artistry of our ancestors.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a captivating exploration of picturesque Cantabrian destinations, including the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, the Neocave replica of the famed Altamira Cave, and the charming mountain village of Potes.

Priced at up to 8% off, the 11-hour excursion promises a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. Highlights include skipping the line at attractions, enjoying local Cantabrian cuisine, and taking in stunning views of the Liébana Mountains and Hermida Gorge.

Led by a live guide in Spanish and English, the tour guarantees an immersive, hassle-free experience.

Potes: The Most Beautiful Inland Village in Spain

Declared a Cultural Heritage Site, Potes stands as a captivating mountain town that has long been hailed as the most beautiful inland village in Spain. Its traditional architecture features steep streets and charming wooden balconies that capture the essence of medieval Cantabria.

• Explore the town’s winding lanes and discover local shops, cafes, and eateries offering a taste of authentic Cantabrian cuisine.

• Marvel at the stunning backdrop of the Liébana Mountains, providing a picturesque setting for this historic settlement.

• Soak in the tranquil atmosphere and savor the breathtaking views that have earned Potes its well-deserved reputation.

• Enjoy the town’s rich cultural heritage and witness the pride of its residents in preserving their unique identity.

• Revel in the opportunity to experience the quintessential charm of an inland Spanish village nestled amidst the rugged Cantabrian landscape.

Exploring Santillana Del Mar

As visitors meander through the charming cobblestone streets of Santillana del Mar, they’re immediately struck by the town’s historical atmosphere.

Known as the "village of three lies" – it’s not saintly, flat, or by the sea – Santillana del Mar enchants with its medieval architecture and free time to explore at leisure.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, indulge in local cuisine, and uncover the town’s unique history that dates back centuries.

A leisurely stroll, local cuisine, and centuries-old history await visitors in the charming town of Santillana del Mar.

From its iconic Collegiate Church to the quaint plazas, Santillana del Mar offers a glimpse into Spain’s captivating past.

The Cave of Altamira

Visitors to the Cave of Altamira will marvel at the replica, or Neocave, which showcases the prehistoric rock art that has made this UNESCO World Heritage site famous.

The Neocave offers:

• Detailed replicas of the original cave’s iconic bison and deer paintings

• Insights into the Paleolithic artists who created these masterpieces over 14,000 years ago

• An opportunity to understand the cave’s environmental conditions and how they impacted preservation

• Interactive exhibits explaining the significance of Altamira’s rock art

• A museum providing further context on the Paleolithic period and its cultural achievements.

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Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes private transport from Santander, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive through the Cantabrian countryside.

Relax and soak in the picturesque Cantabrian landscape as private transport whisks you away from Santander.

The meeting point is the bus stop in front of the Maritime Station, where a guide wearing a black and white name tag will be waiting.

The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring visitors can explore the historic sites regardless of weather conditions.

Getting to and from the destinations is seamless, with transportation included in the tour price.

Tour Highlights

This day tour offers a captivating glimpse into the picturesque corners of Cantabria. Travelers will:

• Explore the cobblestone streets and historical atmosphere of Santillana del Mar, a village often referred to as the "village of three lies" – not saintly, flat, or by the sea.

• Skip the line and visit the Neocave, a replica showcasing the prehistoric rock art in the famous Cave of Altamira.

• Discover Potes, declared a Cultural Heritage Site with its traditional architecture, steep streets, and wooden balconies offering mountain views.

• Indulge in local Cantabrian cuisine during free time.

• Enjoy the stunning vistas of the Liébana Mountains and Hermida Gorge.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes tickets to the Altamira Museum and the services of a local official tourist guide.

It also provides private transport from Santander and guided tours of Santillana del Mar and Potes.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, and there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off available.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the meeting point is at the bus stop in front of the Maritime Station, where the guide will be holding a black and white name tag.

Traveler Reviews and Ratings

Overall, travelers have rated the Potes, Santillana and Altamira Day Tour highly, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars across 17 reviews.

Guests consistently praise the:

• Knowledgeable and engaging tour guides

• Smooth transportation and convenient pickup location

• Seamless skip-the-line access at the Altamira Museum

• Comprehensive exploration of the charming villages

• Excellent value for the duration and inclusions

Several reviewers highlight the tour’s perfect balance of guided experiences and free time to explore at one’s own pace.

Regardless of the weather, the tour delivers an immersive look at Cantabria’s history, architecture, and natural beauty.

FAQ

Is a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

There is no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour operates regardless of the number of bookings, providing flexibility for individual travelers or small groups.

Are Any Meals or Refreshments Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include any meals or refreshments. Participants must pay for their own food and drinks during the free time in Santillana del Mar and Potes.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized for Individual Needs?

The tour does not offer customization or personalization options. Meals and refreshments are not included in the tour price. The experience is designed for a fixed itinerary and group size, providing standard guided tours at set locations.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Day Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size, but it’s a private transport service, so the group size is likely small to provide a more personalized experience. The tour guide can accommodate individual needs within the set itinerary.

Are Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

The tour offers up to 8% savings, bringing the price down from $52.88 to $48.65 per person. Plus, there’s a "Reserve now & pay later" option available for booking this day tour.

Sum Up

This day tour from Santander offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and historical treasures. Visitors can enjoy the charming village of Potes, the medieval splendor of Santillana del Mar, and the breathtaking Altamira Cave replica. With private transportation and knowledgeable guides, this seamless excursion promises an unforgettable experience, showcasing the remarkable landscapes and rich heritage of Cantabria.

You can check if your dates are available here: