Tour to the Villages of the Western Coast of Cantabria

Exploring the Villages of the Western Coast of Cantabria: An Engaging Full-Day Journey

This tour to the Villages of the Western Coast of Cantabria offers a comprehensive look at some of the most captivating towns and sights along this scenic stretch of Spain. Priced at $92.55 per person, the tour lasts approximately 9 hours and starts early in the morning with hotel pickup in Santander, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. With a maximum group size of 24, it provides a personalized experience, complemented by a local guide and transportation included in the price. The tour has received perfect ratings from two reviews, highlighting its value and engaging pace.

This tour is especially suited for those eager to explore historic towns, architectural treasures, and significant cultural sites without the hassle of planning logistics. The inclusion of admission to the Altamira Museum and its exact replica of the Neocave ensures a meaningful insight into prehistoric art. However, travelers should be prepared for a full day on their feet and some walking through cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 9 hours with pickup from Santander
• Visits to San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, Santillana del Mar, and the Altamira Museum
• Expert local guide providing historical insights and assistance
• All entrance fees and transportation included, except food and drinks
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Perfect for those interested in architecture, medieval villages, and prehistoric art

Starting Point: Pickup in Santander at 8:30 am

The tour commences with a hotel pickup in Santander at 8:30 am, easing the transition from city to countryside. From there, transportation takes you to the first stop, with admission to the sites covered in the price. The early start allows for a full day of exploration, ensuring you make the most of each location without feeling rushed.

San Vicente de la Barquera: Historic Fishing Village and Its Key Sights

The first major stop is San Vicente de la Barquera, where you spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the old town. This fishing village is renowned for its beautiful bay views and well-preserved medieval structures. The tour includes a visit to a 12th-century castle, one of the best-preserved in the region, and the exterior of a Gothic church from the same period.

This town’s narrow cobbled streets and medieval buildings create a charming atmosphere perfect for walking and photography. The guide provides insights into the history of the local fishing industry and the importance of the bay of San Vicente. Visitors can enjoy scenic viewpoints over the water, making it an ideal spot for appreciating the coastal landscape.

Exploring the Oyambre Natural Park by Minibus

A short visit to the Centro de Interpretacion del Parque Natural de Oyambre offers a 15-minute overview of this natural park. The park features vast beaches, dunes, and rías, providing a glimpse of Cantabria’s diverse coastal ecosystem. The tour includes a minibus ride through the park, giving a quick but informative look at this protected area.

This stop allows for appreciation of natural beauty without extensive walking, making it accessible for most travelers. It’s a great way to get a sense of the variety of landscapes along the coast and understand the importance of conservation in the region.

Discovering Comillas: Modernist Architecture and Architectural Landmarks

Next, the tour heads to Comillas, often called the only Modernist town in Cantabria. Here, you get about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the town’s remarkable architectural ensemble. Key sites include the Sobrellano Palace, the Pantheon Chapel, and the Old Major Seminary.

The Sobrellano Palace, designed with a neo-Gothic style by Joan Martorell, served as a summer palace for the Marquis of Comillas. The Pantheon Chapel is the family burial site of the Marquis, also crafted by the same architect. This town’s sunflower fields and unique architecture stand out as a testament to Catalan influence outside Catalonia.

Visitors have the option to visit Gaudí’s Caprice in Comillas or to spend free time walking around and enjoying the town’s relaxed atmosphere. The guide’s narration helps bring the buildings’ history and design to life, making this stop particularly enriching.

Santillana del Mar: Medieval Charm and Romanesque Masterpieces

Following Comillas, the journey continues with a 25-minute transfer to Santillana del Mar, a town famous for its well-preserved medieval streets. You spend about 2 hours wandering through cobbled alleys, small palaces, towers, and medieval mansions.

The highlight here is the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a 12th-century Romanesque masterpiece. The church’s architecture and interior details appeal to history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. During this ample free time, visitors can enjoy a relaxed lunch or shopping, with many local shops selling souvenirs and regional products.

This village’s medieval ambiance remains largely intact, making it a perfect spot to step back in time and appreciate Spain’s historical architecture.

The Altamira Museum and Its Neocave Replica

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Museo de Altamira, where an exact replica of the Altamira cave is housed. The neocave offers an accessible alternative to visiting the actual UNESCO World Heritage site, which is often closed to the public to preserve the original paintings.

The admission included in the tour grants approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the museum. Visitors can view prehistoric cave paintings and learn about the artistic achievements of early humans. The museum’s exhibits provide educational insights into the discovery of the original cave and its significance.

This stop combines cultural education with the comfort of modern facilities, making it a memorable conclusion to the historical segment of the tour.

Return to Santander: End of the Day

After the Altamira experience, the tour returns to Santander, with a 30-minute transfer back to the city. The day concludes with a sense of accomplishment, having explored historic towns, seen impressive architecture, and learned about prehistoric art—all within a well-organized full-day trip.

Practicalities: Logistics and Group Size

This tour includes pickup and transportation, handled smoothly by the local guide, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The small group size allows for personalized attention and flexibility during stops. The guided narration enriches the visit, making history and architecture engaging and accessible.

The tour operates with free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. As the tour is designed for most travelers, it involves walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is advisable.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of historic villages, impressive architecture, and prehistoric art makes this tour diverse and educational. The inclusion of the Altamira Museum’s replica is a distinct feature, allowing visitors to appreciate the significance of Cantabria’s prehistoric sites without the typical access restrictions.

The expert local guide and small group size ensure a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and tailored attention. The cost is reasonable given the number of sites visited and the included admissions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those interested in prehistoric art. It suits travelers looking for a full-day cultural excursion with minimal planning. The pace is well-balanced, making it suitable for most fitness levels, but some walking on cobbled streets is involved.

Final Thoughts on the Western Coast of Cantabria Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive and enriching look at some of Cantabria’s most treasured towns and sites. The well-curated stops, expert guidance, and included admissions provide good value for the $92.55 price tag.

While it involves a full day, the schedule is manageable, and the stops are thoughtfully selected to balance historic exploration and relaxing moments. This tour comfortably showcases the region’s medieval architecture, natural scenery, and prehistoric heritage, making it a rewarding experience for most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Santander.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the admission to the Altamira Museum and its neocave replica are included in the price.

Can I visit Gaudí’s Caprice in Comillas?
Yes, there is an option to visit Gaudí’s Caprice during the Comillas stop.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking on cobbled streets. Food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or purchasing lunch during free time.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking on uneven surfaces should be considered for those with mobility concerns.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 24 travelers for a more personalized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a local guide leads the tour, providing insights into each site and managing logistics.