Rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and charming villages: welcome to Cantabria. This Spanish hidden gem is a region of beautiful contrasts that come together to create a unique landscape. Are you drawn to historic towns and local tapas bars? Or perhaps you would like to sample a taste of exceptional fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants? Whatever your preference, luxury holidays in Cantabria will enchant each traveller.
Picture yourself relishing in breathtaking views, visiting picturesque seaside towns, and diving in the region’s rich heritage and natural splendour. Are you ready to experience Spain like a local? Keep reading our Cantabria guide as we reveal the secrets of this one-of-a-kind destination…
About Cantabria
Located in Northern Spain, nearby the Basque Country, Cantabria is an autonomous region lying within the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrim route. It is part of the renowned ‘Green Spain’, an area across the North of Spain featuring a diversified landscape of rocky seashores, endless countryside, and majestic mountains. Holidays in Cantabria are a favourite pick among locals as it gives the chance to escape the mass-tourism crowds while showcasing a wide range of natural and cultural attractions.
Here are some key facts you may want to check out before planning your luxury holiday:
How to Reach Cantabria: Fly directly to Santander International Airport. If travelling overland from a neighbouring country or region, there are also many train stations serving Santander for those keen to further experience the changing landscapes from the ground.
Size: 5,321 km²
Language: Spanish is the official local language; however, you’ll also find that English is widely spoken in the main areas.
Capital: Santander
Best Time to Visit Cantabria: From June to mid-September. These are the driest and sunniest times of the year.
Top Attractions in Cantabria: Picos de Europa National Park | El Capricho de Gaudi | Altamira Cave | Santiliana del Mar.
Best Places to Visit in Cantabria
During your holiday, you will have the chance to explore an array of fascinating towns and cities, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Start your journey by visiting Santander, the region’s capital, where green mountain landscapes meet white sandy beaches. It also stands out for its elegant mansions and rich maritime history. Following, among the top towns in Cantabria there is Santilliana del Mar, a charming medieval seaside town found on the northern route of the Camino de Santiago. Here, ancient defensive towers and Renaissance palaces place it among the most important historical sites in Cantabria. On the coast, San Vicente de la Barquera is a fishing village with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, while Laredo offers expansive beaches like La Salve, perfect for summer villa holidays in Cantabria.
For day trips, head into the heart of the region, where you’ll find enchanting anachronistic treasures like the town of Potes, one of the most interestingly scenic towns in Northern Spain. Alternatively, dive into the region’s past by walking through the underground gem of El Soplao Cave. Another notable town to visit is Liérganes, combining natural beauty with the Elsedo Museum of Contemporary Art.
Things to Do in Cantabria
Spanning over 5,321 km², Cantabria showcases a rich blend of scenery, offering something for everyone. Families, groups of friends, and couples alike will be able to take advantage of the natural beauty, rich heritage, and authentic Spanish culture. For ultimate relaxation, luxury spas and golf resorts dot the picturesque countryside, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. From hiking through a gorgeous national park to exploring the sun-kissed beaches along its beautiful coastline, luxury villa holidays in Cantabria offer an abundance of activities and sights to explore.
Natural Attractions
Cantabria is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes. Spanning across the Green Spain, the Picos de Europa National Park is one of the main natural highlights. This area includes 11 picturesque villages and endless opportunities for adventure sports like hiking, cycling, and mountaineering. Here, dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and serene valleys await as you make your way through the Route of the Cares River and Lake Ercina. As Spain’s only inhabited nature reserve, it gives a glimpse into the country’s rural landscapes. Hop on the Fuente De Cable Car, and experience unforgettable panoramic views. If you are lucky, you will also spot the rare Iberian wolf! Another must-visit natural area is the Pas Valley. Recognised for its sustainable tourism initiatives, the list of things to do is endless. From horse riding, hiking, and fishing, adventure and fun is guaranteed for everyone!
With temperatures rarely exceeding 27°C, the climate is ideal for exploring the breathtaking Cantabria beaches. Choose your favourite sunbathing spot over 220km of pristine coastline, or engage in thrilling water sports! La Salve, on the East Coast in Laredo, is a spectacular 5km long sandbank, perfect for long walks and relaxation. Heading to the heart of Santander, El Sardinero is one of the most popular beaches in Cantabria, with easy accessibility and vibrant city surroundings. Finally, for nature lovers, Oyambre Beach, found on the Oyambre Natural Park, features dramatic dunes and a serene environment.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
If you enjoy culture and heritage holidays, then you will be enchanted by Cantabria’s rich offerings. A must-visit is Antonio Gaudí’s Capricho, located in the seaside town of Comillas. This architectural 19th-century masterpiece is a testament to great creativity and fantasy, recalling Moorish influences. Immerse yourself in contemporary art and culture at the Centro Botín, set along Santander’s seafront promenade. The Cantabrian Maritime Museum is another highlight, standing as a tribute to the region’s naval and trading history. Following, pay a visit to Santiliana del Mar, where you can’t miss the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana. This wonderful work of art dates back to the year 870 and offers fascinating insights into the town’s intriguing history.
Underground wonders await at El Soplao Cave, a spectacular system of over 20 km of passageways featuring rare geological formations. History lovers can explore the Palaeolithic cave art of the Cantabrian Coast. This UNESCO-listed treasure includes the world-famous Altamira Cave, where 14,000-year-old paintings showcase the pinnacle of prehistoric art.
Best Restaurants in Cantabria
When looking for the best places to eat in Cantabria, visitors will be fascinated by the gastronomic variety of the region. Indulge in fine dining in one of the region’s six Michelin-starred restaurants. At the top of the list sits the three Michelin star restaurant, Cenador de Amós. Highly devoted to supporting local communities and with a strong commitment to sustainability, the team ensures a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience. In fact, the chef takes pride in respecting the seasonality of organic products, grown in the restaurant’s own vegetable garden, while being loyal to traditional dishes, enhanced in innovative ways.
Alternatively, sample a taste of the local cuisine in one of the many local establishments. When exploring the inland areas of the region, you must-try the traditional hearty stews like cocido montañés and cocido lebaniego. Otherwise, if you find yourself strolling around one of Cantabria’s picturesque seaside towns, don’t miss your chance to taste fresh seafood dishes. The family-run restaurant Augusto is renowned to offer the highest quality seafood. Here, the legendary rice with lobster is an iconic dish to try, dating back to the area’s maritime heritage. On top of this, the region also stands out for its wine production, adding a sophisticated touch to your culinary journey!
Best Luxury Villas in Cantabria
To elevate your holiday, Villas In Luxury offer a hand-curated selection of exquisite villas. Each one represents an elegant home away from home, perfect for crafting long-lasting memories with your loved ones. Are you dreaming of immersing yourself in the serenity of the green countryside? Then Villa Evarista is the one for you. Alternatively, if you are looking for a private sanctuary where to switch off from the outside world, head to Villa La Peninsula. Perched on the dramatic edge of Cantabria’s coastline, it enjoys a privileged and unique position, comfortably accommodating up to 8 guests. On the other hand, opt for the charm of a beachfront property, such as Villa Rumoroso or Villa La Gaviota. Overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, these luxury villas set the perfect stage to completely unwind to the soothing sound of waves.
In conclusion, luxury holidays in Cantabria will ensure a trip full of beautiful scenery, exquisite cuisine, and rich heritage, perfect for those looking forward to exploring the authentic side of Spain and learning about the local history. Also, don’t miss the chance to experience some of the many Cantabria festivals, allowing you to dive deeper into the local folklore !
Get in Touch with Villas In Luxury…
Let us help you find the perfect villa for your luxury holidays in Cantabria. Don’t hesitate to give us a call +44 (0)1202 203 656 or send us an email. Keep up to date on Instagram, Facebook and our other blog posts for more inspiration on luxury villas and destinations.
