HCUS3, Santillana del Mar, North Spain
The four-star Parador Gil Blas is set at the heart of historic Santillana del Mar - one of Spain's most magical historic places and a great base to discover western coastal Cantabria This imposing house, a pleasing mix of modern and traditional construction in keeping with the medieval feel of the town is right in the pedestrianised old-town of Santillana del Mar and has its own, renowned restaurant, bar and a lovely courtyard to sit out in. The building has been lovingly restored to keep its traditional features and sense of history, and combines modern comforts with cosy old world charm.
28 rooms including junior suites, superior doubles, standard doubles and individual rooms.
On-site parking (extra charge) - pre-booking not required Restaurant, bar and patio Central location
The restaurant, El Jardin de Gil Blas, offers a buffet breakfast traditional Cantabrian cuisine.The cocido montañes (bean and pork stew) is recommended, or enjoy grilled Tudanca beef sirloin with vegetable ratatouille and potato pie, turbot steak or an excellent Cantabrian cheese plate.
Santillana del Mar, about seven kms from the sea, is a beautiful village of grand old mansions, each with its coat-of-arms, and traditional farmhouses. It is justly popular with visitors as a cultural centre: there are two museums and often exhibitions of more than local interest while the wonderful Romanesque Collegiate Church holds concerts. It also has some very good pottery shops as well as stalls selling the local milk and cake (sobaos), and trinkets, and has a good choice of cafes and restaurants. In summer it is busy – but even then, the local farmers continue about their business, so that cows and carts mix with the camera-carrying tourists.
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With 40+ years’ experience designing holidays in Spain & Portugal, our friendly, expert team offers personal service from booking to your return. While away, you’ll have ground support from local agents.
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Discover authentic Spain & Portugal, far from tourist crowds. Stay in charming, trusted places — from castles and palaces to rural guesthouses and Paradores.
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