In the city of Santander, the Magdalena Peninsula gives you a thousand reasons to make it a compulsory stop on your holiday. Its long thin shape makes it look lie it was stuck on to the mainland, which fits in with its history, as it was a gift from the city to King Alfonso XIII. The Peninsula has everything for a great day out: parks, gardens, beaches, and beautiful views of the bay, as well as a free mini zoo where you can meet penguins and otters.
A wonderful place to stroll on your own or with a loved one, or explore with the whole family, taking in every corner at your leisure. And don’t miss the spectacular Magdalena Palace, opened in 1912, and influenced by English design. And if you want more, there’s still more besides.
(Santander)
Coastal towns whet the appetite like nothing else. It must be down to the fresh air and the smell of the sea and sun that drive foodies wild. If you love fish and shellfish, you’re in luck, this seafood restaurant is full of small details that make it a comfortable and pleasant place to enjoy classic tapas, or gorge yourself on dishes fit for the most discerning palate.
The restaurant has been established in Santander for nearly a century, and recently renovated with an original colour scheme. Sit back on the blue benches, enjoy the terrace, and don’t miss delicacies such as the tuna meatballs with seafood sauce. You’ll be back for seconds.
(C/ Calderón de la Barca, 9. Santander)
If you’re looking for a brand new experience, El Soplao cave will transport you away to a fantasy world. Deep in the Sierra del Escudo mountains, between the towns of Valdáliga and Rionansa, the caves are a spectacle you won’t see anywhere else on the planet. Strangely, these stunning caves were discovered by accident, at the beginning of the twentieth century.
The single-piece crystal formations look like some sort of musical instrument, and if you close your eyes the echo of the dripping flows through the stalactites in an endless symphony of fresh water. Nature models simple structures of rock and water in a fantastic way. Enter the underground fantasy and be awed by its unique beauty.
Prao El Collao, s/n. Celis/Rionansa
If you prefer travelling in style to treading the ways yourself, and if you want to enjoy the best views imaginable, climb onto one of the world’s most impressive balconies. The Fuente Dé cable car takes you to a height of 753 metres, in an unforgettable journey between two worlds, framed by the breath-taking Picos. At the highest stop there is a viewpoint and a pleasant café where you
can enjoy a drink while you take in the magnificent panorama. Or for a more hands-on experience, you can trek through the mountains on foot, or take a family picnic and dine in an open-air palace, breath the pure air and enjoy nature in all its splendour. Get ready for a fantastic journey to the edge of the sky.
Barrio de Fuente Dé, s/n. Camaleño