Santander Coastal City Walking Tour
Half Day tour with a private guide to walk the streets of this coastal city… Read more
Cantabria views
Cantabria - A lush and green region of Spain with lovely countryside, mountain areas and sea coast.  The area has prehistoric caves of the first residents of the Iberian Peninsula.  Santander is the capital of Cantabria. Located on a beautiful bay with lovely beaches, the city is well designed and elegant.  Santillana del Mar is also well worth a visit. The Picos de Europe extend from Asturias into Cantabria giving wonderful mountainous scenery.
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Cantabria Hotels/Rural Hotels & Posadas/Bed & Breakfasts/Guest Houses:
Cantabria Holidays - Santander Tourist Attractions   by Steve Greenwood

Cantabria is an autonomous community of northern Spain with a coastline that overlooks the Cantabria Sea. The region is bordered by the Basque Country to the east, Castilla Leon to the south, and Asturias to the west. Cantabria has much to offer visitors to the region with a mixture of mountainous massifs, rolling lush meadows and picturesque fishing ports. Santander is the region's capital and is the best place to start any venture around the province as most places can easily be reached within a 3-hour car drive

Santander, capital of Cantabria - Santander is a modern commercial city and one of Spain's main ports of arrival for ferry passengers from Britain. In 1941, Santander fell victim to a great fire, which burned for 2 days fanned by strong southerly winds. Only one person was killed while the city was plunged into chaos and much of the historic centre was destroyed. The oldest remaining building to be found in Santander today is the cathedral.

Cantabria Holiday Attractions - Much of the tourism that comes to the region head towards the summer holiday resorts to be found along the northern coastal strip. El Sardinero near Santander is one of the most popular beaches for visitors to the capital city. It can get busy along its 1.3km length during the summer months, but the wide promenade, which is one of the prettiest in Spain, runs the whole length of the beach and there is a good supply of hotels and eateries to choose from. At one end of the beach can be found Magdalena Park, which offers a beach playground, mini zoo and train circuit. The town of Comillas has a picturesque sandy beach with plenty of parking nearby and a fishing port at one end. The beach at Laredo is over 4km long and has fine golden sand overlooked by a long promenade. It also offers good conditions and lifeguard facilities for those interested in surfing.

Cantabria National Parks -  Cantabria has many national parks for those interested in the flora and fauna Spain has to offer. The Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa was the first Spanish national park to receive this classification in 1935. The Picos de Europa Mountains are spread over the three provinces Asturias, Leon and Catalonia and contain 3 massifs characterised by constant rainfall and often snowfall on the peaks. The Nature Reserve offers some fantastic extremes of landscape including vertical drops of over 2km, hillside forests of oak, beech, maple and walnut trees, meadows of green pasture land and the great Covadonga lakes.

This northern region of Spain is a great destination for discovering some of the natural delights of this diverse country. Beautiful beaches and dramatic sheer cliff faces dominate the coastline, while the Picos de Europa can be found just 25km from the coast. Cantabria has a good selection of Nature Reserves both within the mountainous areas and along its northern coastal stretch. With fantastic scenery and a wonderful diverse range of flora and fauna, these offer some excellent walking and hiking opportunities for visitors who want to experience the more rugged side of Spain.

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About the Author

Steve Greenwood invites you to visit Cantabria Villa Rentals for information and holiday attractions in Cantabria and capital city Santander. Visit http://www.idealrentals4u.com for holidays and accommodation in all the regions of Spain including the Canary Islands.
 

FUENTE DE
Parador de Fuente De  ***
This modern mountain refuge located on the foothills of the Picos de Europa and opening onto the fertile Liébana valley, shows nature in total freedom. It is surrounded by the dramatic slopes of the Picos de Europa, woods and hillsides, in a region which is split into modest hamlets. The building is located at the bottom of the cable car which goes up to the Áliva viewpoint, at a privileged meeting point for lovers of outdoor activities. The classical mountain style and the warm wood and leather furniture recreate the much-appreciated home warmth...
LAREDOClick to view map
Miramar Hotel Laredo  ***
Presenting elegant accommodation and friendly service, this property is a perfect venue for an unforgettable vacation in Laredo.  Located in the Cantabria town of Laredo, the Miramar hotel offers panoramic views of the beautiful scenery of the long sandy beach and most of the popular tourist villages.  This property offers 45 spacious guestrooms that are gracefully appointed with contemporary amenities to ensure you the desired comfort.  The on-site restaurants serves a variety of delectable cuisines for you to enjoy. You can also relax at the cafe with light snacks and beverages or sip on various cocktails at the cosy bar.
LIMPIASClick to view map
Parador de Limpias (Cantabria)  ****
The new Parador in Limpias is located in the Palace of Eguilior estate, which was the summer headquarters of King Alfonso XIII's Council. The palace belonged to Don Manuel de Eguilior, the Count of Albox, and is attributed to the architect Emilio de la Torriente.  Rooms are large in size, decorated in a classical way, not forgetting any details of modern facilities.  Restaurant is well decorated in a classical style.  Dishes such as marmita de bonito (stew made with bonito tuna) cocido montanes (traditional white bean and pork sausage stew), other white and red bean stews, plus a variety of cheeses, and sweets such as the famous Corbatas de Unquera, sobaos pasiegos, or Pantortillas de Reinosa are just a few of the delights diners will enjoy.  The palace is a large square building with four pseudo-towers at each corner, none of which is very high.
LOMBRAÑA

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Posada Rural La Casona de Lombraña, Lombraña
We are in an ancient palace of the XVIIIth century, and have provided the comfort of a family run guest house, while maintaining the charm of the building.  "La Casona de Lombraña" is located in the heart of Valley Polaciones one of the most peculiar of Cantabria; characterized by an unusual landscape, with abundant rainfall and strong relief.  It is 104km. from Santander and near to the "Peak of Europe" with spectacular views, and is the ideal starting point for visiting the main attractions of the West of Cantabria.
RUESGA
Ruesga - in a privileged location, among sea and mountains, next to Natural Park Collados del Asón (Hillocks of Asón river), only twenty minutes from the beaches of Laredo and between Santander and Bilbao city. This situation permits great variety of activities and cultural visits.  There are numerous activities of active tourism that can be carried out, among others: senderismo, with a lot of routes in number and degree of difficulty; paint-ball; routes by quads, fishing, horses, going down the river Asón by canoe, aquatic sports or speleology in some of the numerous caves existing in the zone, known on a world scale.
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Ruesga - views
Hotel Posada Aire de Ruesga
Situated in an amazing area of Cantabria, among mountains and near the sea.  It is a stone 17th-century house that has been lovingly restored to its former glory and carefully decorated with attention to details, creating an atmosphere of gracious charm and tranquillity.  The aim of the whole team is to offer our guests special and unforgettable moments in a charming place. The hotel has ten comfortable and extensive rooms each decorated in an individualized way, inspired by different decorative styles, recalling different cultures and towns.
SANTA CRUZ DE BEZANAClick to view map
Bezana Lago Hotel, Santa Cruz de Bezana  ***
This hotel is located just a few kilometres from Santander airport and city centre easily accessible by motorway in about 5 minutes.The hotel is also close to some of the nicest beaches of the area such as Liencres and San Juan de la Canal.  The hotel provides 40 comfortable and functional rooms with full bathroom.The rooms are also equipped with TV, mini bar, direct telephone and heating. They are medium in size, decorated in bright blue and soft yellow colour patterns in bedcovers and curtains.   The restaurant is a welcoming area where to try both International and traditional local specialities. It is spacious and comfortable. Also special events such as business meals or family gatherings can be arranged. It is located just a few metres away from the main building. Disco every Saturday after dinner.  This is a very convenient hotel due to its location nearby Santander city centre as well as not to miss places such as Santillana del Mar or Comillas.
SANTANDER - General availability search for hotels in Santander
Santander - The port city of Santander is the capital of the autonomous community of Cantabria situated on the north coast of Spain between Asturias (to the west) and the Basque Country (to the east).  Santander is a city that lives facing the sea, in the wide bay of the same name.  While the environs have become industrialized, the city center is still the ideal zone to go for a walk along the sport harbours, nice beaches and colourful parks.
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Santander
Santander Coastal City Walking Tour
Half Day tour with a private guide to walk the streets of this coastal city; Santander, an elegant city which extends over a wide bay with views of the Cantabrian Sea. Its historic quarter includes a group of majestic buildings which are situated against an incredible natural backdrop of sea and mountains... Read more
Chateau La Roca Hotel Santander  ***
Chateau La Roca Hotel is located in a residential area, 4 kilometres from downtown Santander and very close to wonderful beaches. Liencres's Natural Park, Abra del Pas Golf course and Exhibition hall are some of the attractions.  The hotel provides 60 guestrooms with complete amenities. Its facilities offer the comforts of a modern hotel, while providing personal and friendly service in a functional setting and privileged environment. 
Husa Real GL Hotel Santander  *****
Situated on a hill in the elegant residential area of Santander 1 kilometre from Santander exhibition and Cantabria conference centres. The hotel is surrounded by its own garden and commands spectacular views of Santander bay, Atlantic Ocean, mountains and fine sandy beaches. The hotel has 237 spacious rooms and luxury suites that are well furnished and well equipped with amenities. At the hotel you can enjoy buffet breakfast and continental cuisine. Visit the Magdalena Palace, Casino as well as the Festival and Congress Hall or stroll in the hotel's garden.
Los Angeles Hotel Santander  ***
This hotel is located nearby the airport and just five minutes away from Santander city centre by car a bus stop is just a few metres away from the hotel entrance. The Natural Park of Cabarceno is also very close and within easy reach.  The hotel provides 44 rooms. All are fully equipped with full bathroom with hair dryer, satellite TV, individual heating and air conditioning, mini bar, radio, safe deposit box, trouser press and internet connection. The rooms are decorated in a traditional way and are medium in size.  In the hotel restaurant you will enjoy tasty dishes both traditional and international made with the personal touch of the restaurant's cheff. Also available delicious seafood from their own private fish stock.
NH Ciudad De Santander Hotel ***
The NH Ciudad de Santander hotel is situated in a privileged location in the commercial district close to the popular Puertochico and and a few minutes walk from the Sardinero beach.  The hotel has 62 guest rooms, restaurant "Airen" and five comfortable meeting rooms with capacity for up to 220 guests. Besides the hotel's own equipment and services, NH Ciudad de Santander can provide all the technological capabilities necessary to make your event a success. 
NH Express Santander Hotel  ***
NH Express Santander Hotel is well located in the city's shopping district and the Nueva Montana Business Park. The hotel is just 3 kilometres from Santander's historic centre and a few minutes from the El Corte Ingles shopping centre. All the 103 air conditioned rooms are equipped with modern amenities.  You can start the day afresh with the buffet breakfast that is offered at the hotel. The Express Santander Hotel provides other facilities like business centre and also safe deposit box as well as parking. 
Occidental Bahia Hotel Santander  ****
Strategically located right in the commercial and business centre of Santander just a step away from shops, restaurants and nice avenues by the seaside. Also a few metres away from the train and bus station connecting the airport and a large number of interesting villages nearby. Also the ferry port is just on the other side of the street.  This traditional and emblematic hotel provides 188 rooms including suites and executive rooms. The restaurant is of traditional style, tiled floors and dark wood panelled walls combined with elegant upholstery create a pleasant atmosphere to taste the high quality cuisine served with a good selection of regional and international wines. Here is also where a hearty buffet breakfast is provided every morning.
Occidental Hoyuela Hotel Santander  ****
Occidental Hoyuela Hotel is located in a historical area of Satender. It was built with a classical and abstemious architecture. Altamira cave and Cabarceno Natural Park are some of the interesting places to visit that are at a short distance from the hotel. One can enjoy the horse riding to explore the nearby attractions.  The hotel offers 47 comfortable fully equipped rooms with wide range of amenities. The staffs at the hotel are very friendly and take care of every detail, which caters to the guests requirements.
Occidental Sardinero Hotel Santander  ***
Situated in centre of Santander city, and is close to numerous tourist attractions. The hotel is just few steps away from the famous El Sardinero Beach. All the 108 rooms here are well furnished, each with a private bathroom. Meeting rooms and party halls are also available for holding your special celebrations, reunions, cocktails and expositions.
Palacio Del Mar Suite Hotel Santander  ****
The hotel is located 200 metres from the well known "El Sardinero beach" and 5 minutes from the commercial district and old quarter of the city. It is also next to the football stadium and bullring.  The rooms are very large and spacious most of them are suites. They are furnished in modern, lively colours and bright curtains. Rooms are kept in very good condition along with the full spacious bathrooms. Some of them have terrace or balcony. They all have mini-bar, PC connection, air-conditioning, satellite TV, radio and safe deposit box.  With a sailor-inspired decoration in soft colours the restaurant is the place to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while tasting the nice seafood specialities as well as a wide variety of traditional and seasonal cuisine.The hotel provides 24 hour room-service, meeting rooms and banqueting service.
Santemar Hotel Santander  ****
Located in the Bay of Santander amidst a privileged marine and jungle-like environment, just 50 metres from the beaches of Sardinero, the Santemar Hotel combines tradition, modern experience and efficiency. The hotel provides 350 rooms with first-class facilities, decorated in fine wood and furnished in traditional style.  Every meal is considered a special occasion in the excellent restaurant where you can try some of the region's delicacies. The Santemar Hotel offers many places for relaxation and social meetings, as well as magnificent facilities with an efficient team of experts to give professional assistance.
Vincci Puerto Chico Hotel Santander  ****
Lying right on Puerto Chico the hotel Vincci is just next to the docks and in a privileged setting at the edge of the Santander bay, which is in the middle of the historic centre and steps away from the beaches. One can enjoy unparalleled views of boats coming in and out of the recreational port.  The hotel's comfortable and charmingly decorated 42 rooms, one will also find some of the best views in Santander (rooms with views to Puertochico), all of which will allow for an unforgettable stay.  Aside from a complete and attentive room service, which Vincci offers, one will also enjoy delicious creations from the hotel's restaurant and cafeteria.
SANTILLANA DEL MAR
Parador de Santillana del Mar  ***
This newly built manor house conserves the typical architecture of the area, blending in perfectly with the architectural surroundings of this beautiful locale. Comfortable rooms with a pleasant atmosphere help the guest to find peacefulness and rest. The restaurant and bar, located in the Parador Santillana Gil Blas offer guests the opportunity to sample Cantabrian cuisine's most traditional dishes. 
Parador de Santillana Gil Blas  ****
The Parador is installed in the beautiful Barreda-Bracho ancestral home, in the Santillana del Mar plaza, a town declared a National Monument, whose origins date back to the 8th century. The main entrance precedes diaphanous, friendly rooms, with wooden floors and traditional decoration for the furniture and the ornamental details. The bedrooms are comfortable and in harmony with the Parador's overall atmosphere. 
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