Excursion: Neocueva de Altamira | Santillana del Mar | Comillas

This 10-hour tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Cantabria’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. For $66 per person, it combines visits to the Neocueva de Altamira, the historic Santillana del Mar, and the striking Comillas with its modernist architecture. Starting from Santander’s Maritime Station, the trip is ideal for those interested in prehistoric art, medieval villages, and modernist landmarks. While the tour includes round-trip transportation and free time in both Santillana del Mar and Comillas, it does not cover meals, so planning for lunch is recommended.

This excursion is well-suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Cantabria’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. It’s especially beneficial for those eager to see famous sites like Altamira’s caves replica and Gaudí’s El Capricho. However, visitors should note that the total duration is 10 hours, so some may find the schedule a bit full, especially if they prefer more relaxed pacing.

Key Points

• Price: Only $66 per person, including transportation and entrance fees
• Duration: 10 hours, departing from Santander’s Maritime Station
• Highlights: Visit to Neocueva and Altamira Museum, free time in Santillana del Mar, and exploration of Comillas
• Transport: Round-trip private coach from Santander with detailed insights provided en route
• Pacing: Four hours in each village, with time for self-guided exploration
• Food: Lunch on your own in Comillas, no meals included

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Starting Point at Santander Maritime Station

The tour begins at Santander’s Maritime Station, where a coach awaits to take you on this full-day journey. The transportation is private and included in the price, making logistics straightforward. The departure is usually scheduled to allow for a full day of sightseeing, with the journey between sites taking approximately 30 to 40 minutes. During the ride, guides provide helpful information about the sites to come, setting expectations for the day ahead.

Exploring the Neocueva de Altamira and Its Museum

The first major stop is the Neocueva de Altamira, where visitors see a life-size replica of the original Paleolithic caves. Recognized as one of the most important prehistoric sites globally, the caves feature impressive cave paintings that date back thousands of years. The admission to both the replica and the museum is included, allowing time for a self-guided exploration.

The discovery of the caves in 1868 was entirely accidental, adding a layer of historical intrigue. The research center offers insights into prehistoric art and early human life, making this a highlight for history buffs. While the replica provides a detailed view of the original caves, visitors do not explore the actual caves themselves.

Strolling Through Santillana del Mar

After visiting Altamira, the tour moves to the charming village of Santillana del Mar. Known as the “Villa de las Tres Mentiras” (“the village of three lies”), this town is famed for its centuries-old architecture. The free time here allows for wandering cobbled streets, browsing local shops, or simply taking in the historic ambiance.

Key sights include the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a Gothic structure dating back to the 12th century, and the Velarde Palace, which showcases beautiful architectural details. The towers of Merino and Don Borja also provide a glimpse into the medieval past. This stop offers a gentle step back in time, perfect for those who appreciate medieval towns and authentic architecture.

Discovering Comillas and Gaudí’s El Capricho

Following Santillana del Mar, the tour continues to Comillas, another historic town famous for its modernist architecture. Visitors have four hours of free time to explore and enjoy lunch at their own pace. The town square, Coro Campíos, is lively and perfect for photos.

The main attraction is El Capricho, a masterpiece designed by Antoni Gaudí. Known for its vivid colors and innovative design, it offers a rare opportunity to see Gaudí’s early work outside of Barcelona. In addition, visitors can also see the Sobrellano Palace, with its majestic façade, and the Pontifical University, which adds to the town’s architectural charm.

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Practical Details About the Transportation and Schedule

The round-trip transportation from Santander is covered, with coach rides between each stop lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes. The entire day is structured to maximize sightseeing while allowing enough free time to explore each location independently. The schedule is tight enough to cover all the highlights but leaves some flexibility for personal exploration.

The meeting point is at the Santander Maritime Station, with departure times varying based on availability. The tour includes guidance and information on places of tourist interest, ensuring participants gain context about each site while enjoying independent exploration.

Cost and What’s Included

For $66, this tour includes admission to the Neocueva and Altamira Museum, round-trip transportation, private coach travel, guidance, and insurance coverage. The free time in both villages offers the chance to wander at your own pace.

Note that lunch and dinner are not included, so visitors should plan to bring cash for meals or explore local restaurants during the free hours. The tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled date**, making it a convenient option for flexible planning.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This excursion is perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and those interested in Gaudí’s work. It suits travelers who want to see key sites without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. The self-guided exploration time allows for a relaxed experience in each village, ideal for independent-minded visitors.

However, the full 10-hour schedule may be demanding for some, especially if they prefer more leisurely pacing or want to spend more time at each location. Participants should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, walking, and exploring.

Final Thoughts on the Cantabrian Heritage Tour

This 10-hour guided trip offers a balanced mix of prehistoric art, medieval architecture, and modernist architecture. The inclusion of the Altamira replica and Gaudí’s El Capricho makes it stand out among other tours in the region. The private transportation and comprehensive itinerary provide a stress-free way to enjoy Cantabria’s highlights.

While the schedule is tight, the free time in Santillana del Mar and Comillas allows for personal discovery. The cost remains reasonable given the admission fees and transport included. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time but eager to see key cultural and historical sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip transportation, admission to the Neocueva and Altamira Museum, guidance, and insurance. Lunch and dinner are not included.

How long is the free time at each stop?
There is about 4 hours of free time in both Santillana del Mar and Comillas, allowing for sightseeing, shopping, and meals.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Visitors should bring cash for meals or souvenirs. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable due to cobblestone streets and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour’s full-day schedule and walking involved make it more suitable for those with moderate mobility. It’s best for families with older children or adults.

Are there options to customize the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but the free time allows for personal exploration and lunch choices.

What language is the guide speaking?
The activity is conducted in Spanish, with guides providing detailed commentary throughout the day.

This Cantabria day trip from Santander combines historical discovery, architectural beauty, and scenic villages, making it a well-rounded experience for culture and history enthusiasts.

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