The Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery, and Potes Day Tour promises an immersive exploration of the stunning Liébana region. Travelers can discover the historic Monastery of Santo Toribio, home to the revered Lignum Crucis, and take in breathtaking vistas from the iconic Picos de Europa. With the option to ride a cable car, this tour caters to diverse interests. But the real gem may lie in the charming town of Potes, where cobbled streets and the Torre del Infantado await those eager to uncover its unique allure. Whether you seek cultural enrichment or scenic wonders, this day trip holds the key to an unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- This 9-hour day tour from Santander explores the Liébana region, including the Monastery of Santo Toribio and the picturesque town of Potes.
- The tour offers an optional cable car ride to the Picos de Europa mountain range, providing stunning panoramic views at an elevation of 1,823 meters.
- Horseback riding is available as an optional activity near Potes, subject to advance booking and weather conditions.
- The tour is conducted in Spanish and English, with a professional guide providing commentary and a personalized small-group experience.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a 9-seater minivan or minibus, and liability insurance, with the option to purchase cable car and horseback riding tickets.
Tour Overview
The tour, titled "Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery, and Potes Day Tour," is priced from €77.00 per person and lasts 9 hours.
It’s offered in Spanish and English, with small group sizes available. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include visiting the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, home to the Lignum Crucis, and exploring the charming town of Potes.
Optional activities like a cable car ride and horseback riding are available.
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing, and purchase cable car tickets in advance.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from Santander, this day tour transports visitors to the picturesque Liébana region, renowned for its majestic mountains, lush forests, and winding rivers. The first stop is the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, housing the Lignum Crucis, the largest preserved piece of the cross of Jesus. Guests can also opt for a cable car ride to the breathtaking Picos de Europa, reaching an elevation of 1,823 meters, or explore the charming town of Potes, known for its cobbled streets and the impressive Torre del Infantado.
| Activity | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cable Car Ride | 4 minutes | €17 (low season), €20 (high season) |
| Horseback Riding | 1 hour | €30 (available in summer) |
Inclusions
This tour includes a professional guide to lead the way, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
Transport is provided in a 9-seater minivan or minibus, depending on the season. Liability insurance is also included.
Optional add-ons are available, such as cable car tickets to the Picos de Europa mountain range, which cost €17 in the low season and €20 in the high season.
Horseback riding is offered during the summer months for an additional €30 per hour.
Guests should contact the activity provider in advance to inquire about and book these optional activities.
Preparation and Recommendations
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended for participants on the Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour. Those interested in the optional cable car ride should purchase tickets in advance, as group booking is required. For the optional horseback riding, available during the summer months, guests are advised to contact the activity provider to express their interest and arrange the additional cost of €30 for a 1-hour session.
| Pre-Tour Checklist | |
|---|---|
| Comfortable Shoes | Warm Clothing |
| Cable Car Tickets* | Horseback Riding* |
| *Pre-Booking Required |
Customer Feedback
The day tour of Santander, Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery, and Potes has received generally positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 169 reviews.
Guests particularly praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, awarding them an impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating. The transportation and service also received high marks, with 4.6 and 5 out of 5 respectively.
However, some customers noted occasional communication issues with the activity provider.
Picos De Europa Cable Car
What is the Picos de Europa cable car experience like? The cable car takes visitors up to an elevation of 1,823 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of the Picos de Europa mountains. This popular optional activity provides a thrilling 4-minute ride up the mountainside. Here’s a quick overview:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 minutes |
| Elevation | 1,823 meters |
| Cost | €17 (low season), €20 (high season) |
| Advance Purchase | Required for group booking |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
Cable car tickets must be purchased in advance, and group bookings are required. This breathtaking experience is a highlight for many on the Santander day tour.
Horseback Riding Option
Along With the cable car ride, the Santander day tour offers an optional horseback riding experience during the summer months.
This 1-hour activity is available at an extra cost of €30 per person. Interested participants need to contact the activity provider in advance to book the horseback riding.
The guided horseback riding takes place near the picturesque town of Potes, allowing visitors to explore the stunning Picos de Europa landscape from a unique perspective.
This activity is weather-dependent and subject to availability. Guests are advised to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the horseback riding experience.
Tour Duration and Languages
The tour runs for 9 hours, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Picos de Europa region.
It’s available in both Spanish and English, catering to a diverse audience.
The small-group format allows for a more personalized experience, with ample opportunities to interact with the knowledgeable guide.
Whether you’re seeking to learn about the local culture or simply admire the breathtaking natural scenery, this day tour provides a well-rounded itinerary that caters to a range of interests and preferences.
With its accessibility and flexible cancellation policy, the tour is designed to accommodate the needs of various travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but there are optional activities like a cable car ride and horseback riding that can be added for an additional cost. The core tour program remains fixed.
Are Meals Included in the Tour Price?
No, meals are not included in the tour price. The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and professional guide services. Any meals or additional activities, such as the cable car or horseback riding, have separate costs.
Is This Tour Suitable for Children?
This tour is generally suitable for children. However, it involves some walking and cable car rides at high elevations, so parents should assess their children’s abilities and stamina. Contact the tour provider for specific details on child-friendly accommodations.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour provider offers small group options, allowing you to customize the experience for your party. Contact them for details and pricing on private group bookings.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can cancel the tour at any time before this period without penalty.
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Recap
The Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery, and Potes Day Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning Liébana region. With its historic monastery, breathtaking Picos de Europa, and charming Potes, the tour provides a well-rounded experience. Flexible cancellation and professional guides ensure a memorable and hassle-free adventure for visitors.