Parador de Santillana del Mar (Gil Blas)

The Parador Gil Blas occupies a restored 17th-century noble mansion on the central square of Santillana del Mar, a pedestrianised medieval village and one of Cantabria's principal heritage destinations. The village is 15 km southwest of Santander, accessible by road in around 20 minutes. The Altamira National Museum and Research Centre — which houses a full-scale replica of the nearby Palaeolithic cave paintings — is 1.5 km from the parador, and the original Altamira cave is a short drive further along the same road. The Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana stands within a two-minute walk of the front entrance.

The building's original stonework, exposed ceiling beams, vaulted corridors and arcaded courtyard have been preserved to the Paradores network's conservation standards. Rooms are furnished in Castilian style: dark wood furniture, wrought-iron headboards and stone window embrasures that retain the character of the original structure. Classic rooms are compact; Superior rooms and Family rooms offer more floor area suitable for longer stays. There is no swimming pool or spa, but a quiet garden terrace provides a sheltered space for evening drinks.

The restaurant serves regional Cantabrian dishes anchored on local seasonal produce: cocido montañés (a bean and collard stew), cured charcuterie, fresh Atlantic fish and Tresviso blue cheese. The stone-vaulted dining room is atmospheric and breakfast — a full buffet — is served there each morning. The concierge team is experienced in arranging guided visits to Altamira, day trips to Comillas village (with its Capricho de Gaudí) and excursions to Cabárceno Wildlife Park. The setting suits culturally motivated travellers and couples; families with children are welcomed.