If there is a charming town, of great historical-artistic value that attracts thousands of visitors every year and has an intense cultural activity, that is, without a doubt, Santillana del Mar. This town, one of the most beautiful in Spain, is hidden on the western coast, 31 kilometers from Santander and is known, above all, for the famous Altamira caves. It is perhaps the main focus of tourist attraction in Cantabria because in addition to housing great architectural treasures dating from the Middle Ages, its stone mansions, the craft activity that still persists in every corner of the town, and its cobbled streets take us back to the towns Described in the tales of old. An idyllic place to enjoy a weekend of relaxation and disconnection from the routine.
What to see
The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana is the most important Romanesque work in Cantabria, the most representative building in this town. It is also essential to visit the Altamira Caves, which have been dubbed the ‘Sistine Chapel of rock art’, where you can see the most famous prehistoric paintings in the world. Nor should you miss a visit to the Jesús Otero museum, where you will find exhibitions of the works created by the sculptor from Santillana del Mar, Jesús Otero, as well as a complete library. A recommended visit is also the El Solar museum, where you will find a wide representation of the different instruments of torture used by the Court of the Spanish Inquisition against heresy.
What to buy
In the shops of Santillana del Mar it smells of yesteryear and the traveler’s eyes fill with the typical products of this town: quesadas, sobaos pasiegos, Unquera ties, Santillana stones, puff pastries… Nor should we overlook the anchovies from Santoña, quesucos from Liébana, pomace, honey, sausages, legumes and wine.
Where to eat
The Casa Cossío restaurant (Plaza Abad Francisco Navarro) is an obligatory reference to enjoy excellent Cantabrian cuisine. Located in a stone house located in the Plaza de la Colegiata de Santillana del Mar, in a natural and rural environment typical of this beautiful Cantabrian town. In addition, it has a huge grill for grilling all kinds of fish and meat. El Gran Duque (C/ Escultor Jesús Otero) is another of the recommended restaurants. It offers a pleasant atmosphere and careful cuisine based on the rich natural products of Cantabria, such as meat, fish, shellfish, natural desserts… And, of course, the best wines.
Where to sleep
The Palace of Los Caballeros is an 18th century mountain house, emblazoned by the Bustamante Torres Quevedo family. Its main façade, built in ashlar stone, reveals the nobility of its classic interior, combined with a traditional style. The 200,000 m² estate is surrounded by native trees, guarantees peace and quiet, and offers us relaxing and exclusive walks to the Altamira Cave. This 4-star rural hotel is recognized with the Cantabria Gran Reserva Quality Club seal. The hotel The infants It is located in the center of the town of Santillana de Mar and built on an 18th century palace that serves as a portico and prelude to a modern hotel. Its careful and meticulous decoration, its furniture and period objects, achieve a perfect harmony with the surroundings of the town.