Verdant and peaceful, Cantabria is a very picturesque northern Spanish region, perfect for outdoorsy and food-focused holidays. It’s also an area rich in history, studded with seaside villages and rural towns boasting heritage architecture, pretty squares and striking churches. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, and our pick of the best places to stay in Cantabria are dotted throughout the region, promising marvellous views of the dramatic Picos de Europa as well as the dazzling Cantabrian Sea. We've discovered great value guesthouses, family friendly agroturismos, converted palaces and five star luxury hotels.
Santander, Cantabria’s capital, sits on the northern side of the Bay of Santander. Boasting a lively food and nightlife scene, as well as some top-notch beaches and Belle Epoque architecture, it’s a wonderful choice for a city break or a popular starting point for a road trips across Cantabria. To the west, San Vicente de la Barquera is a lovely, laid-back destination with its own impressive heritage landmarks — as is Comillas.
Turning east, you’ll find coastal Santoña, which offers some superb hikes as well as scenic surf spots. Big beaches of golden sand abound in Cantabria, often fringed by cliffs with marked trails for hiking or cycling. Inland, you can expect family-run farms producing fine cheeses and meat in the foothills of the Picos de Europa. Some of these will wend their way to the tables at the best places to stay in Cantabria where you can savour delectable dishes with top-notch Spanish wine.
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San Vicente de la Barquera (Prellezo)
A pleasant hotel on the Cantabrian coast, not far from San Vicente de la Barquera. Large rooms are colourful, with exposed beams and views to the sea or mountains. A very secluded spot close to many outdoor activities. A great choice for country weekend by the sea.
Cantabria (Oreña-Alfoz de Llored)
An old stone pousada surrounded by beaches and mountains. Rustic chic bedrooms have wooden beams and cosy decoration. Lovely library, fireplaces, excellent local cuisines, and plenty to do on the beach and in the mountains. Excellent value for an all round holiday.
Cantabria (Cantabria)
A declared Asset of Cultural Interest, palace and hotel in Puente Arce. Rooms and suites are stylish and traditional with plenty of wood, simple furniture and luxurious bathrooms. A historic hotel with superb restaurant, set in beautiful gardens and offering easy access to Cantabria's attractions.
Cantabria (Cabuérniga )
Gorgeous countryside hotel. Unique rooms feature wooden beamed ceilings, characterful furnishings, and modern bathrooms. Garden and terrace to enjoy. Sublime Spanish cuisine and extensive wine list in the bar. Romantic, rural and rustic.
Santander
A cheerful guesthouse located in the centre of Santander. Its six comfortable rooms are all individually furnished, some featuring exposed brickwork and others wood panelling. Just a short walk from Santander's fine art gallery it is perfectly located for exploring the city. A superb value option.
Cantabria (Herrerias)
A traditional rural property set in the picturesque Valley of Nansa. Country-style rooms with pretty floral fabrics, exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings. Indulgent continental breakfasts. A cosy bar ideal to unwind in with a regional tipple. A great base to explore this lovely part of Spain.
Santona (Berria)
A charming little hotel set in a privileged location surrounded by sea, dunes, mountains, and marsh. An ideal spot for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. Charming rooms with comfortable beds. Excellent value, family friendly, nature on your doorstep.
Cantabria (Cantabria)
A rustic hotel surrounded by Picos de Europa National Park in the peaceful village of San Pelayo. Charming, warmly decorated rooms feature tile floors and wood furnishings. There's a cosy lounge with a fireplace, glorious gardens and an outdoor pool with amazing views. A magical mountain escape.
Cantabria
A charming guesthouse located in a tranquil rural spot set by the River Pas. Rooms are light and airy with a white on white palette, beamed ceilings, intricately carved antiques and lovely views. A delightful spot from which to explore the charms of the Cantabria region.
Cantabria (Camaleño)
An impressive country house boasting stunning mountain views. Traditionally styled rooms feature parquet flooring, antique furniture and private balconies. Sample exemplary Cantabrian cuisine in the restaurant. Plenty of outdoor pursuits within the grounds and surrounding hills. Rural bliss.
Santander
A chic pension, complete with 10 modern rooms, in the heart of the city. Light and airy accommodation is simple and smart with soft hues, minimalist furniture and luxurious bathrooms. Indulgent breakfasts are served and many of the city's sights are just a stroll away.
San Vicente de la Barquera
A chic contemporary hotel located in a charming village near the coast. Individually styled rooms are light and airy with soft hues, floor to ceiling windows and parquet flooring. An elegant restaurant on the terrace serves innovative fusion dishes. A smart base from which to explore the region.
San Vicente de la Barquera (Pechón)
This traditional Spanish guesthouse draws on the best of Cantabria's style with spectacular wooden floors and ceilings, a refreshing terrace and contemporary dining area and bar. All rooms offer a spacious bathroom and plenty of natural light. A perfect oasis for a beach holiday.
Santander (10 Bajo)
This small boutique hotel is located just two minutes away from Sardinero Beach. It features chic, natural palette rooms which include free wifi and an LED TV. A breakfast buffet is served each morning, perfect for setting you up for a day on the beach or for exploring Santander and its sights.
Cantabria
A beautiful golden palace set in a valley and surrounded by nature parks and mountains. Traditional elegant rooms and suites have four poster beds, wooden floors, high ceilings and lots of space. Excellent restaurant, gardens and pool. Great for local exploring, good value too.
Cantabria (San Pantaleón de Aras 39766)
A charming 17th century house, steeped in Castilian history. All seven, distinctly designed en suite rooms offer unique views of the Cantabria countryside, with wooden floors and stone framed windows. Guests can sit by stone fires, relax in the gardens, or stroll by the river; ideal for relaxation.
Cantabria (Covera)
This quaint country house situated in the tranquil Corvera countryside has elegant rooms and a beautiful garden, the perfect location to have your breakfast each morning. Cabárceno Nature Reserve is only a short drive away and there are plenty of local hikes and cycling routes to explore.
Cantabria
A 17th century mansion, now four star hotel, boasting a secluded spot in rural Cantabria. Elegant rooms are traditional and spacious with high beamed ceilings, dark antique furniture and rich hues. An atmospheric restaurant serves up exemplary regional cuisine. A quintessentially Spanish stay.
Cantabria (Cantabria)
This historic 17th-century townhouse in the main square, offers a comfortable stay in a heritage setting. The rustic decor, with wooden beams and cosy fireplaces, adds to the charm. Guests can dine on local dishes at the restaurant or relax in the peaceful courtyard. A perfect spot to unwind.
Cantabria (Cantabria )
Fully renovated 17th century palace that lets you sleep, bathe and dine like royalty. The decor is in keeping with tradition: stone walls, antique furniture and frescoes, but with exquisite modern comforts, including a spa, Jacuzzi, gym, meeting room, free wifi and whirlpool.
Cantabria (Cantabria )
This charming hotel in Limpias offers a serene escape surrounded by beautiful gardens. The decor strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, reflecting its royal heritage. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a restaurant serving Cantabrian cuisine. A perfect relaxing getaway.
Cantabria (Carrejo)
A former stable converted into a stylish and comfortable hotel, nestled in the hills of Cantabria. Rustic-style interiors with stone floors, and fireplaces combined with contemporary wood furnishings, neutral colours and framed photographs. A chic and charming rural retreat with lovely grounds.
Cantabria (Cantabria)
What could be more romantic than a 16th century watermill on the banks of the Ebro River? This stunning location houses nine sumptuous suites with exposed brick, beams and cosy soft furnishings. There's a cinema room with squashy cushions and blankets, plus a lush garden with pool. An idyllic stay.
Cantabria
A wonderful country house hotel in a lush green valley. Romantic rooms with exposed stone walls, wooden beams and rustic chic furnishings. Lovely views from terraces and the restaurant. A peaceful country escape in the Basque region.
Cantabria
A chic and comfortable 16th century mansion, set in stunning countryside. Traditional decor with exposed stone walls, antique wooden furniture, Flemish tapestries and Renaissance art. The outdoor pool, garden and Jacuzzi offer fantastic views. Meals can be arranged on request.
Cantabria (Santillana del Mar)
Delightful 5* hotel in 15th century building. Gothic bedrooms have wooden floors, stone walls and velvet furnishings. Games room, library, courtyard and massages available. Full of atmosphere and character, it is a unique stay at good value.
Cantabria (Ajo, Cantabria )
A 16th century palace turned small luxury hotel set a short distance from the area's dramatic coastline. Atmospheric rooms are filled with antiques and the old building's fireplaces and exposed beams lend real character. The restaurant serves exceptional authentic regional dishes. A charming stay.
