From Santander: Capricho Gaudí with entrance, Santillana and Redwood Forest.

Imagine exploring some of the most captivating sights of Cantabria — from towering sequoias and fairy-tale villages to one of Gaudí’s most whimsical creations — all in a single day. This tour, offered by BUENDIA TOURS, promises a blend of nature, architecture, and culture that reveals the true charm of northern Spain.

What we love most? The opportunity to walk among sequoias up to 40 meters tall without crossing the Atlantic, and the chance to step inside Gaudí’s unique “Capricho” with the entrance fee included — a rare find for architecture aficionados. On the downside, the full-day length might be tiring for some, especially with a busy itinerary packed into 5 to 10 hours. But if you’re curious about authentic local villages, natural grandeur, and modernist marvels, this trip is a solid choice.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, historic towns, and architectural wonders. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience that covers a lot of ground, offers insider insights, and includes tickets to key sights — all without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or transportation.

Key Points

• Natural grandeur: Walk among impressive sequoia trees up to 40 meters high in a natural monument.
• Architectural wonder: Visit Gaudí’s Capricho with an included guided tour and entrance.
• Medieval charm: Explore the medieval streets of Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most beautiful villages.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding and experience at each stop.
• Value for money: All entrance fees and guided visits are included for just $41.
• Flexible timing: Duration varies from 5 to 10 hours — check the schedule to fit your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

The tour kicks off from two convenient locations in Santander — the Estación Marítima or nearby points — making it simple to start your day. After about 30 minutes aboard the comfortable coach, the first major stop is the Redwood Forest at the Monumento Natural de las Secuoyas del Monte Cabezón. Here, you’ll wander among sequoias that seem to belong to a different continent — imagine trees up to 40 meters tall, standing as living monuments to nature’s grandeur.

Our guides, praised for speaking clearly and slowing down explanations, really bring this natural wonder to life. One reviewer, Annemarie, mentioned, “The Sequoyah National Forest is beautiful, and the villages are very different in their history.”

Next, the journey continues to Comillas, a jewel of a town that showcases both modern architecture and historical charm. You’ll see the Pontifical University and Belarre Palace from the outside on a panoramic drive, but the real highlight is the guided visit to Gaudí’s “El Capricho”. This building is a vivid example of Catalan modernism, featuring playful curves, colorful ceramics, and unusual shapes that showcase Gaudí’s inventive spirit. The entrance fee is included, making it easier to appreciate the building without extra fuss.

Following this, you’ll have a guided walk of Comillas itself, digging into its local atmosphere and highlights. The blend of medieval streets and 19th-century architecture makes it a photographer’s paradise, and a place to get a real sense of local life.

The last major stop is Santillana del Mar, famously called “the town of three lies” — it’s not a hill, it’s not a saint, and it’s not dry. Truly, it’s one of Spain’s most picturesque medieval villages. You’ll stroll along cobbled streets, admire well-preserved buildings, and discover significant monuments. This is a place that feels like stepping into a history book, with plenty of photo-worthy moments. After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to enjoy a traditional local lunch — a highlight for many travelers eager to taste regional dishes.

The day wraps up with a comfortable coach ride back to Santander, with the option to relax and reflect on your discoveries.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Beyond the impressive sights, what makes this experience worthwhile is the expert guidance. The guides are praised for their clarity and friendliness, adding context that elevates the sightseeing. For example, the review from Chiara states, “The guide told us lots of interesting facts and curiosities along the way, which made the trip more engaging.”

The inclusion of entrance fees to Gaudí’s Capricho and guided visits to key sites delivers impressive value, especially considering the overall price of $41. This means you won’t be surprised by extra costs, and your day is streamlined with all the important highlights covered.

Transportation is by round-trip bus, which allows you to relax during the journey and focus on the scenery. The flexible timing — from 5 to 10 hours — gives you some control over how much you want to see and do, though be prepared for a full day if you choose the longer option.

The tour’s small-group feel adds a touch of intimacy, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights. Since the itinerary is subject to change, it’s good to be flexible, but the core highlights remain consistent.

Deep Dive into the Highlights

Sequoia Forest: Nature’s Marvel

Walking in the Redwood Forest, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. These trees are among the tallest living organisms on Earth, and standing beneath them can be humbling. The guided visit helps you understand how these trees have survived for centuries, and what makes this natural monument special. Many visitors appreciate that it’s a relaxing yet awe-inspiring experience.

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Gaudí’s Capricho: A Modernist Wonder

Inside El Capricho, you’ll see Gaudí’s creative genius up close. The building’s curving forms, vibrant ceramics, and playful design make it unlike anything else in Spain. The guided visit ensures you don’t miss the details that make it special. It’s a chance to see a lesser-known Gaudí masterpiece outside Barcelona, which feels like discovering a hidden gem.

Medieval Villages: History and Charm

Santillana del Mar offers a step back in time. Its cobbled streets, medieval churches, and traditional houses create a scene straight out of a storybook. The guided walk reveals the history behind the buildings, and the free time afterward allows for wandering and sampling local cuisine.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking through cobbled streets and forest trails.
• Bring a camera: The scenery and architecture are highly photogenic.
• Bring some cash or a card: For lunch or souvenirs in Santillana del Mar.
• Check the schedule: The tour lasts between 5 and 10 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Meet at the designated points: The tour offers two pick-up options for convenience.
• Prepare for weather: Check the forecast — outdoor stops mean exposure to sun or rain.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Santander offers excellent value for money, combining natural beauty, architectural brilliance, and medieval charm in one accessible package. The guided visits and included tickets mean you get a comprehensive experience without the stress of planning each detail.

The sequoias are a highlight for nature lovers, while the Gaudí building adds a playful dose of modernist architecture. The medieval village provides a sense of history and authenticity that few day trips can match.

Perfect for travelers who appreciate a well-rounded, culturally rich outing, this tour is especially suited for those who want to see a lot without sacrificing the depth of experience. Whether you’re passionate about architecture, nature, or history, you’ll find something to love here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most age groups, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended because of cobbled streets and forest trails.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 5 to 10 hours. Check availability for specific starting times to plan your day accordingly.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance to Gaudí’s Capricho and the guided visits are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, and a camera. Weather-appropriate gear depending on the forecast.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and beverages are not included. There will be free time in Santillana del Mar for lunch, where you can try local dishes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides operate in Spanish and English.

Is there any transportation?
Yes, round-trip transfers by bus are included, making the logistics simple and relaxing.

Are pets allowed on this tour?
Pets are not allowed, as stated in the policies.

What is the group size?
While not specified, the tour’s small-group format suggests a comfortable size that encourages interaction.

This trip is a fantastic choice for those seeking a balanced day of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and architectural admiration. With friendly guides and all the essentials covered, it’s a practical and enjoyable way to see a different side of Spain.

You can check availability for your dates here: