Santander: Western Coast of Cantabria Villages Day Trip

Exploring the Western Coast of Cantabria is a captivating day trip from Santander. Visitors can discover charming villages, striking landscapes, and the region’s rich cultural heritage. The tour includes stops at San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar, showcasing Gaudí’s architectural marvels and the renowned Altamira Museum. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and uncover the fascinating stories that make this corner of Spain truly unique.

Key Points

• This day trip offers an exploration of charming coastal villages along the western coast of Cantabria, including San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, and Santillana del Mar.
• Highlights include visits to the Altamira Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the opportunity to see Gaudí’s Capricho in Comillas.
• The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who provides historical context and insights throughout the journey.
• Transportation is provided via a comfortable van or minibus, and admission fees to the Altamira Museum and Neocave are included.
• The tour is suitable for both Spanish and English-speaking participants, with a maximum group size of 8 people.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip to the Western Coast of Cantabria villages offers an immersive experience for visitors. Priced from $92.25 per person, the 9.5-hour tour is limited to 8 participants and available in Spanish and English.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve now and pay later.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include the picturesque fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera, the unique modernist town of Comillas, the medieval Santillana del Mar, and the renowned Altamira Museum.

An expert guide provides historical insights throughout the journey, ensuring an engaging and informative experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip showcases the vibrant fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera, nestled within the stunning Oyambre Natural Park.

Participants will then explore the unique modernist architecture of Comillas, including Gaudí’s Capricho.

Next, they’ll wander the cobbled streets of the medieval town of Santillana del Mar and visit the collegiate church of Santa Juliana.

The highlight of the day is the Altamira Museum, where they’ll see the Neocave, a reconstruction of the prehistoric cave paintings – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Throughout the journey, the expert guide provides historical context and insights.

Included Services

The day trip includes several valuable services to enhance the overall experience.

Participants will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who provides historical context and insights throughout the tour.

Transportation is provided by a comfortable van or minibus, especially convenient during peak seasons.

Admission fees to the Altamira Museum and guided visit to the Neocave are included.

Optional costs include:

• Entrance to Capricho de Gaudí (7.00 €/adult, 5.00 €/reduced, 3.00 €/child 7-12 years, free under 7 years)

• Payable in cash on the day

Participant Information

Although not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or respiratory issues, the day trip provides an enjoyable experience for participants.

Visitors should dress appropriately for outdoor activities, as the tour includes walking through historic villages and natural landscapes.

The tour departs from multiple locations in Santander, including Hotel Chiqui, Hotel Palacio del Mar, and Gran Casino, with specific pickup times provided.

Participants can expect a comfortable journey by van or minibus, especially during the peak season.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have praised the Santander: Western Coast of Cantabria Villages Day Trip, resulting in an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 26 reviews.

Alistair from the UK praised the knowledgeable guide and comfortable vehicle, while Dorota from Poland highlighted the engaging storytelling during the tour.

Patricia from the USA enjoyed the beautiful locations and informative experience.

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

Knowledgeable local guide, comfortable transportation, breathtaking scenery, engaging storytelling, overall satisfaction with value and quality.

• Knowledgeable local guide providing historical context and insights

• Comfortable transportation by van or minibus

• Breathtaking scenery at picturesque villages and natural parks

• Engaging storytelling bringing the tour to life

• Overall satisfaction with the value and quality of the experience

San Vicente De La Barquera

San Vicente de la Barquera is a picturesque fishing village situated at the heart of the Oyambre Natural Park, known for its estuaries, beaches, dunes, and dramatic cliffs.

The village serves as the heart of the municipality’s activity, offering a glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the charming streets, sample fresh seafood, and admire the scenic views from the harbor.

The natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and coastal exploration, making San Vicente de la Barquera a must-visit destination on the Cantabrian coast.

Comillas

After exploring the picturesque fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera, the day trip ventures to the unique modernist town of Comillas.

This charming destination in Cantabria is known for its architectural gems, including:

• Gaudí’s Capricho, a whimsical summer villa showcasing the architect’s distinctive style

• The Palace and Chapel of Sobrellano, an impressive neo-Gothic complex

• The Pontifical University, a historic educational institution with a picturesque campus

• Scenic plazas and streets lined with elegant buildings

• Breathtaking coastal views from the town’s elevated position

Visitors can wander the quaint streets and admire the town’s well-preserved modernist heritage.

Santillana Del Mar

The next stop on the day trip is the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, renowned for its cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Visitors will embark on a walking tour, exploring the town’s Romanesque collegiate church of Santa Juliana. This 12th-century structure features ornate stone carvings and intricate architectural details.

The guide will provide insights into the town’s rich history, allowing travelers to enjoy the charm of a bygone era.

With its well-preserved medieval ambiance, Santillana del Mar offers a glimpse into Cantabria’s captivating past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Lunch and Snack Options During the Tour?

The tour does not include lunch or snacks. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food and refreshments. There may be opportunities to purchase light bites or meals during stops, but this is not part of the provided services.

Can I Bring My Own Luggage or Small Backpack on the Tour?

Participants can bring a small backpack or personal luggage on the tour. However, it’s recommended to travel light as storage space is limited in the transportation vehicles. The tour operator advises against bringing large suitcases or bulky items.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Limited Mobility?

The tour is not suitable for travelers with limited mobility or respiratory issues. The itinerary involves walking through historic villages and visiting a museum, which may be challenging for those with mobility constraints.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no specific restrictions on photography during the tour. Travelers are generally free to take pictures at the various sites visited, though some sites may have their own photography policies that should be respected.

Can I Request Additional Stops or Modifications to the Itinerary?

Customers can’t request additional stops or modifications to the standard itinerary. The tour follows a fixed schedule to ensure all highlights are covered efficiently. However, the guide may be able to provide suggestions for extending the trip independently before or after the group tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip along Cantabria’s western coast offers a glimpse into the region’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore charming villages, marvel at Gaudí’s architectural wonders, and explore the history of the Altamira caves. With an expert guide, travelers can make the most of this immersive experience and come away with a deeper appreciation for the diverse beauty of Cantabria.

You can check availability for your dates here: