As summer is here, many are plotting getaways and outdoor escapades to make the most of the sunny season. While there are plenty of beautiful places in the UK, it’s no secret that the weather has been predictable – interchanging from 30C temperatures to heavy rain. So getting away means you are almost guaranteed sunshine filled days.
Spain is always a popular choice for us Brits but rather than visiting popular spots like Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Benidorm and other spots, this underrated spot is said to offer a perfect mix of city and beach – and has a lot less tourists.
The holiday spot is the city of Santander in Spain, in the Cantabria region. The city is stretched across a wide bay with many stunning beaches, hilly landscapes and amazing views. There are also plenty of restaurants with fresh seafood and a shopping hub on the Alameda de Oviedo Boulevard.
Plus, the city has a relaxed atmosphere and is a lot more chilled than other cities in Spain. Enjoy some arts and history at th Centro Botin – a modern art museum – or take a tour around the historical landmark of Magadelna Palace from the early 20th century. Fun fact: the popular bank Santander gets its name from the city too; it was founded there.
Recently, one holidaygoer, named Ali, known as @aligoingabroad online, shared her experience online of Santander and dubbed it as her “favourite hidden gem”.
Ali said: “Stop going to tourist spots in Spain and got to this hidden gem. Spaniards say it has the best beaches in Spain.” She noted there are many different beaches for swimming and water sports.
Listing her favourite things about Santander, she added: “The city is beautiful, extremely cheap accommodation, escalators around the city so you don’t have to walk up steep hills. Did I mention beautiful beaches? You’ll have a new sunset spot everyday. Quiet areas with no tourists.”
She also noted the food is cheap and there are beautiful hikes.
“I love Santader,” added one. While another said: “Santander has my heart. I lived there last summer studying Spanish at UIMP [Universidad Internacional Menendez Pelayo.”
Someone else added: “Studying abroad here now and falling in love with the city.” While another dubbed it as their “favourite place in the world”.
One more who has visited the spot commented: “Not only is Santander incredible, but the whole region of Cantabria. Really recommended and it’s quite small so it’s very easy to drive to places.”
While after watching the clip, someone else said: “You have fully convinced me to go there.”
You can get a ferry from Portsmouth to Santander, or you can fly to Bilbao. You can then get a train or bus to Santander which takes around one hour and 30 minutes. Driving or getting a taxi will take around an hour and 26 minutes.
Have you visited Santander? Comment below…