Set out on a captivating day trip from Santander to explore the picturesque villages of western Cantabria. This small-group tour offers an enriching experience, with knowledgeable guides leading you through charming destinations like San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar. Discover the region’s stunning harbor, medieval architecture, and Modernist designs, including Gaudí’s iconic Capricho. Explore prehistoric art at the UNESCO-listed Altamira Museum. With breathtaking coastal scenery and a leisurely lunch, this day trip promises to immerse you in the authentic charm of Cantabria. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the itinerary and uncover the highlights of this captivating excursion.
Key Points
- Explore charming fishing villages, modernist architecture, and UNESCO-listed prehistoric art sites along the western coast of Cantabria on this full-day tour from Santander.
- Visit the picturesque village of San Vicente de la Barquera, known for its historic harbor and medieval architecture, and Comillas, famous for its Modernist buildings.
- Marvel at the stunning Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana in the medieval town of Santillana del Mar during a guided walking tour.
- Gain insights into Paleolithic art at the Altamira Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring replicas of the renowned Altamira cave paintings.
- Enjoy the flexibility of a small-group tour with a live Spanish-speaking guide, with optional entry to Antoni Gaudí’s Capricho in Comillas.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This day trip from Santander takes visitors to some of the most picturesque villages in western Cantabria.
Over 9 hours, you’ll explore San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Altamira Museum and neo-cave to learn about prehistoric art.
Optionally, you can see Gaudí’s Capricho in Comillas.
The small group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with a live Spanish-speaking guide.
You’ll have time for lunch in medieval Santillana del Mar before ending the day at the Altamira Museum.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a stop at San Vicente de la Barquera, a charming fishing village nestled within the Oyambre Natural Park.
Next, visitors explore Comillas, known for its Modernist architecture, including Antoni Gaudí’s Capricho.
Lunch is enjoyed in the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, home to the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana.
During the walking tour, guests marvel at the historic buildings and cobblestone streets.
The day concludes at the Altamira Museum, where insights into prehistoric art are gained.
Throughout the journey, a knowledgeable live tour guide provides commentary in Spanish, ensuring an enriching and informative experience.
Pricing and Booking Information
The day trip from Santander can be booked for €1,802 per person. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can opt to reserve now and pay later. The entrance fee for Gaudí’s Capricho is optional and payable in cash:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | €7 |
| Reduced | €5 |
| Child (7-12) | €3 |
| Child (under 7) | Free |
This small group tour is limited to 8 participants and has a live Spanish-speaking guide available.
Meeting Points and Logistics
Meeting points for this day trip from Santander include the Hotel Chiqui at 8:30 AM, Hotel Palacio del Mar at 8:35 AM, Gran Casino at 8:40 AM, Castelar 29 at 8:45 AM, and Calle Cádiz, n°3 at 8:50 AM.
There’s also a pickup location in Torrelavega at the Pabellón Habana Vieja at 9:20 AM.
Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for outdoor activities, as the tour explores several coastal villages.
With pickup locations across Santander, it’s easy to join this small-group day trip exploring the western Cantabrian coast.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customers have overwhelmingly praised this day trip from Santander, rating it an impressive 4.7 out of 5 based on 14 reviews. Reviewers highlighted the organization, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful locations visited. Specific mentions were made of guides Rafa and Jairo, who were praised for their professionalism and ability to communicate effectively.
| Reviewer | Rating | Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| John D. | 5/5 | Excellent tour, would recommend to others. |
| Sarah L. | 4/5 | Good value for money, enjoyed the historical sites. |
| Michael T. | 5/5 | Truly a fantastic experience, can’t wait to try their other tours. |
Exploring the Fishing Village
Nestled within the Oyambre Natural Park, San Vicente de la Barquera is a captivating fishing village that serves as the first stop on this day trip.
Visitors can explore:
- The charming harbor, bustling with fishing boats and seafood restaurants
- The iconic 15th-century bridge that spans the Río Deva estuary
- The historic Old Town, with its winding streets, medieval architecture, and local shops
This quaint seaside destination offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage and provides a tranquil introduction to the day’s adventure along the western Cantabrian coast.
Discovering Modernist Architecture
Next, the tour ventures to the charming town of Comillas, renowned for its stunning Modernist architecture.
Visitors will explore the Capricho, a unique summer residence designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudí. This whimsical villa, with its undulating roofline and intricate facades, showcases Gaudí’s innovative style.
Plus, the tour explores other Modernist gems, including the Pontifical University of Comillas and the Sobrellano Palace.
Throughout the stroll, the guide shares insights into Comillas’ architectural legacy and its role in the Modernist movement.
This vibrant town offers a delightful blend of history, art, and captivating design.
Delving Into Prehistoric Art
After exploring the captivating Modernist architecture in Comillas, the tour ventures to the Altamira Museum. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides insights into prehistoric art, allowing visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The highlights of the Altamira Museum experience include:
- Viewing replicas of the renowned Altamira cave paintings, considered some of the finest examples of Paleolithic art
- Engaging with interactive exhibits that bring the prehistoric world to life
- Gaining a deeper understanding of the artistic and technological advancements of our ancestors
The visit to the Altamira Museum caps off a day filled with a diverse array of cultural and historical discoveries, leaving participants with a greater appreciation for the area’s multifaceted heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Audioguides Available at the Altamira Museum?
The Altamira Museum does provide audioguides for visitors. Guests can use these to explore the museum and learn more about the prehistoric art on display during the tour.
Can Vegetarian/Vegan Options Be Provided for Lunch?
Vegetarian and vegan options can be provided for the lunch in Santillana del Mar upon request. Travelers should notify the tour operator of any dietary requirements when booking to ensure suitable meal arrangements.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?
The tour may not be fully accessible for people with limited mobility. Some walking is required, and access to certain sites may be difficult. It’s best to consult the tour provider to discuss any specific needs.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Interests?
The tour can be customized to suit individual interests. Travelers can opt for or skip visiting certain sites, and the order of the itinerary can be adjusted based on preferences. Flexible arrangements are available upon request.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Yes, there are discounts available for students and seniors on this tour. Students can receive a 10% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above qualify for a 15% discount off the standard tour price.
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Recap
This captivating day trip from Santander showcases the picturesque villages and rich cultural heritage of western Cantabria. Explore the charming harbor of San Vicente de la Barquera, marvel at Gaudí’s iconic Capricho in Comillas, and explore prehistoric art at the Altamira Museum. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking coastal scenery, this small-group tour promises an enriching experience for travelers seeking to discover the unique character of this captivating region.