4 day itinerary for Santander

Itinerary

Santander is a beautiful coastal city in northern Spain, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Let’s craft an exciting 4-day itinerary that steers clear of the ordinary and immerses you in nature. Get ready for some adventure!

## Day 1: Explore the Natural Wonders of the Coast

Morning:

• Start your day at the Magdalena Peninsula: Head to this stunning park where you can stroll along the coastline, enjoy the views of the Bay of Santander, and visit the charming Palacio de la Magdalena. Don’t forget to snap some photos with the sea in the background!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a seaside café: Grab a bite at one of the local cafés along the beach. Try some fresh seafood, like anchovies or calamari, paired with a refreshing local cider.

• Kayaking in the Bay: After lunch, rent a kayak and paddle around the bay. You’ll get a unique perspective of the city and the coastline, and you might even spot some marine life!

Evening:

• Sunset at Playa de la Concha: Head to this beautiful beach to relax and watch the sunset. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

## Day 2: Hiking and Nature Immersion

Morning:

• ## Day trip to Parque Natural de las Marismas de Santoña: Start early and drive or take a bus to this stunning natural park. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Enjoy a guided tour or hike along the trails to see the diverse wildlife.

Afternoon:

• Picnic in the park: Pack a picnic with local delicacies and enjoy it surrounded by nature. The views of the marshes and mountains are simply breathtaking!

• Visit the nearby town of Santoña: After your picnic, explore this charming fishing town. Don’t miss trying the famous anchovies!

Evening:

• Return to Santander: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant. Try the “sobaos” (a local cake) for dessert!

## Day 3: Adventure in the Mountains

Morning:

• Head to Picos de Europa National Park: Take a day trip to this stunning mountain range. Start with a hike on one of the many trails, like the Ruta del Cares, which offers dramatic views and a thrilling experience.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in a mountain village: Stop in a quaint village like Potes for lunch. Enjoy hearty mountain fare, such as “cocido lebaniego” (a traditional stew).

• Cable car ride at Fuente Dé: After lunch, take the cable car up to the peaks for breathtaking views. Spend some time exploring the area and soaking in the fresh mountain air.

Evening:

• Return to Santander: Enjoy a relaxed evening at a local bar, perhaps trying some “tapas” and mingling with locals.

## Day 4: Coastal Exploration and Relaxation

Morning:

• Visit the Cave of El Soplao: Start your day with a visit to this incredible cave system, known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The guided tour is fascinating and takes you deep into the earth!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the nearby town of Val de San Vicente: Enjoy a meal at a local eatery, sampling more of the region’s delicious cuisine.

• Beach time at Playa de Langre: Spend your afternoon at this less-crowded beach, perfect for a swim or just lounging in the sun. The cliffs and natural beauty are simply stunning!

Evening:

• Farewell dinner in Santander: For your last night, treat yourself to a special dinner at a restaurant with a view of the bay. Savor the flavors of Cantabria one last time!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car can be very helpful for reaching some of the more remote natural sites.
• Weather: Be sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, especially for hiking in the mountains.
• Local Events: Check if there are any local festivals or events happening during your visit for an extra dose of culture!

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your adventure in Santander! Enjoy every moment of your nature-filled journey! 🌊🏞️🌅