West of Santander, San Vicente de la Barquera sits between two long inlets on the Cantabrian coast. Set between the dramatic backdrop of the Picos de Europa, the Asturias mountains and the Cantabrian Sea, it’s a beautiful region for outdoorsy adventurers. San Vicente de la Barquera itself is a medieval port town and well worth exploring — as are the pretty towns and villages dotted along the coastline and in the verdant foothills beyond. Intimate and characterful, our list of the best places to stay in San Vicente de la Barquera also includes some very affordable properties, perfect for laid-back trips as a couple or with friends and family.

If you’re dreaming of lazy days on the sand, venture east of town, where you’ll find terrific beaches for sunbathing, sandcastle-building, swimming and surfing. Playa de Oyambre and Playa Meron are particular favourites. Head inland for hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as horse riding opportunities and tours of family-owned farms producing flavoursome Cantabrian cheese and meat.

For cultural and heritage attractions, look to the grand Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, which dates back to the 13th Century, or the picturesque Santuario de la Banquera. El Capricho de Gaudí, one of the artist’s earliest designs and the neo-Gothic Palacio de Sobrellano, both in nearby Comillas, are not to be missed. Wander through pretty towns of Pechón and Prellezo, pop into the regional museum at Castillo del Rey, or gather for mouth-watering cuisine at little family-run eateries. As with much of Cantabria, the best places to stay in San Vicente de la Barquera fill up fast during the summer months — book your holiday well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in San Vicente de la Barquera

For Boutique Chic

• Hotel Tinas de Péchon is a chic little boutique bolthole in Péchon, whose elegant rooms and suites are clad in soft hues, with parquet flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows promising lovely views and lots of light. There are bicycles to borrow and the terrace restaurant specialises in superb regional cuisine. Very romantic.

For Families or Groups

• Valle d'Arco is a charming hotel with 21 spacious, colourful rooms and suites and splendid views towards the Picos de Europa mountains in one direction, and the sparkling Cantabrian Sea in the other. Set on a hillside in the little town of Prellezo, just 3km from San Vicente, it's a relaxed base for couples, friends and families.
• Hotel Don Pablo offers family rooms as well as doubles and and triples, perfect for group trips. On the edge of Pechón and within walking distance of the beach, it's an idyllic choice for outdoorsy travellers, with a very friendly feel. Also appealingly affordable.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Santander-Seve Ballesteros Airport and travel 40 minutes by bus or taxi to San Vicente de la Barquera. Alternatively, journey by overnight ferry to Santander from various ports in the UK, and continue by road from there. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Cantabria is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect warm and sunny summers, with temperatures averaging at around 20°C - 24°C between June and August. Do be aware that this is peak holiday season for travellers from Spain & further afield. For fewer crowds and great hotel deals, travel in April, May or late September.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Santander.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Cantabria.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.