From Santander: Western Coast of Cantabria Villages Day Trip

Embarking on a journey through the picturesque coastal villages of western Cantabria promises an immersive experience for travelers seeking to uncover the region’s rich heritage. From charming towns boasting stunning Modernist architecture to a world-renowned museum showcasing Paleolithic masterpieces, this day trip offers a well-rounded exploration of the area’s cultural gems. Whether marveling at the captivating neo-cave recreation or strolling through quaint historic centers, participants can expect to be captivated by the unique blend of natural beauty and artistic wonders that define this corner of Spain. What secrets might these villages hold, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• This full-day excursion from Santander explores the picturesque coastal villages of Cantabria, including San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar.
• The tour includes a visit to the Altamira Museum and its neo-cave, showcasing the renowned Paleolithic cave paintings.
• Travelers can choose to visit the modernist Capricho building designed by Antoni Gaudí in Comillas.
• The tour provides an opportunity to experience the rich maritime heritage, Modernist architecture, and medieval charm of these charming Cantabrian towns.
• Included amenities are a local guide, transportation, and entrance fees to the Altamira Museum and Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day excursion allows visitors to explore the main villages along the western coast of Cantabria, showcasing the region’s diverse cultural and natural attractions.

The tour lasts 9 hours and is limited to small groups of 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Highlights include visiting the picturesque towns of San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar, as well as the Altamira Museum’s neo-cave.

Travelers can also choose to visit the Capricho, a modernist building designed by Antoni Gaudí.

The tour includes a local guide, transportation by coach, and entrance fees to the Altamira Museum and Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, though lunch and the optional Capricho visit aren’t included.

Exploring San Vicente De La Barquera

The tour’s first stop is the picturesque town of San Vicente de la Barquera, renowned for its impressive coastal views and rich maritime heritage.

Perched on the estuary of the Río Deva, this charming fishing village boasts a well-preserved medieval castle, the impressive Church of Santa María de los Ángeles, and a bustling harbor lined with traditional fishing boats.

Visitors can stroll along the seaside promenade, explore the narrow streets, and soak in the town’s serene atmosphere.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the local seafood specialties at one of the quaint restaurants dotting the waterfront.

After this delightful introduction to the western coast of Cantabria, the tour continues to the Modernist village of Comillas.

Discovering Comillas’ Modernist Architecture

From San Vicente de la Barquera, the tour continues to the Modernist village of Comillas, where visitors can enjoy the remarkable architectural heritage that defines this charming coastal town. Comillas boasts a unique collection of buildings designed in the Modernist style, showcasing the influence of renowned architects like Antonio Gaudí.

Building	Architect	Description
Palacio de Sobrellano	Juan Bautista Lázaro	An ornate palace with Neogothic, Baroque and Mudéjar elements
El Capricho	Antoni Gaudí	Gaudí’s only work in Cantabria, a stunningly intricate summer residence
Universidad Pontificia	Jaime Casanovas	A majestic university building featuring Modernist and Neogothic styles

Strolling through the streets of Comillas, visitors are transported to a bygone era, marveling at the exceptional Modernist masterpieces that adorn this picturesque village.

Visiting Santillana Del Mar

After exploring the captivating Modernist architecture in Comillas, the tour continues onward to the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, where visitors can enjoy the rich historical heritage of this picturesque destination.

Widely known as the ‘town of three lies‘ – it’s not a saint, it’s not flat, and it’s not del mar (of the sea) – Santillana del Mar enchants with its well-preserved medieval streets, lined with stone houses, palaces, and the impressive Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana.

Visitors can wander through the charming town, step back in time, and discover the unique Cantabrian culture that has been preserved here for centuries. The guided tour provides an in-depth look at this remarkable historic gem.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Altamira Museum and Neo-Cave

Visitors also have the opportunity to explore the renowned Altamira Museum and its impressive neo-cave replica during the day trip.

The museum showcases the remarkable Paleolithic cave paintings discovered at the nearby Altamira cave, which are considered some of the finest examples of prehistoric art in the world.

Through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays, the museum provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the significance and cultural legacy of the Altamira cave paintings.

The neo-cave recreation offers a unique chance to witness the stunning original paintings in a carefully recreated environment, providing insights into the lives and artistic expressions of our ancient ancestors.

Gaudi’s Capricho (Optional)

For those interested, the tour also offers an optional visit to Gaudí’s Capricho, a unique architectural gem designed by the renowned Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. The Capricho, built in the late 19th century, showcases Gaudí’s distinctive modernist style and innovative use of materials, providing visitors a chance to experience the master’s creative vision firsthand.

Feature	Description
Architectural Style	Modernist, with Gaudí’s signature organic forms and use of natural materials
Exterior	Ornate, with intricate details and vibrant colors
Interior	Elegant, featuring unique furniture and fixtures designed by Gaudí
Highlight	The tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape

The optional Capricho visit is an opportunity to delve deeper into Gaudí’s influential legacy and appreciate the artistry that defined his architectural approach.

Included Amenities

The tour includes several amenities to enhance the experience, starting with a local guide who accompanies participants throughout the day and provides insights into the history and significance of the villages visited.

Transportation is provided by a comfortable coach, ensuring a seamless journey between the picturesque destinations.

Admission to the Altamira Museum and the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana is also included, allowing visitors to explore these cultural landmarks at their own pace.

While lunch isn’t provided, the tour offers the flexibility for participants to choose their own dining options, catering to individual preferences.

Meeting Locations and Times

The tour departs from 6 different meeting points across Santander, with the earliest departure at 8:30 hours from Hotel Chiqui and the latest at 9:20 hours from the Pabellón Habana Vieja in Torrelavega. Guests can choose the most convenient location to join the excursion, with stops at Hotel Palacio del Mar, Gran Casino, Castelar 29, and Calle Cádiz nº3 in between. The table below outlines the departure schedule and meeting points:

Location	Departure Time
Hotel Chiqui	8:30
Hotel Palacio del Mar	8:35
Gran Casino	8:40
Castelar 29	8:45
Calle Cádiz, nº3	8:50
Torrelavega, Pabellón Habana Vieja	9:20

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy allows participants to cancel up to 24 hours prior to the tour start time for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch stop is not included in the tour, so bringing a packed lunch is recommended if desired.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair accessible, as it includes transport by coach. However, some historic sites and villages may have limited accessibility. It’s best to check with the tour operator about specific accessibility needs.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Altamira Museum?

Visitors can take photographs inside the Altamira Museum, but they’re not allowed to use flash photography. Photography is permitted in the museum’s exhibition areas, though tripods and monopods may be prohibited to avoid disrupting other visitors.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, as you will explore the main villages and attractions on the western coast of Cantabria. Visitors should expect to be on their feet for extended periods to fully experience the highlights of the day.

Recap

This day trip along the western coast of Cantabria offers a captivating blend of picturesque villages, rich maritime heritage, and exceptional Modernist architecture.

Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the region’s unique culture and history, including the remarkable Paleolithic cave paintings at the Altamira Museum.

It’s a comprehensive and practical excursion for those seeking to explore the charm and beauty of this captivating corner of Spain.

You can check if your dates are available here: