Capricho Gaudí with entrance, Santillana del Mar and Sequoia Forest

Exploring Cantabria’s Charm: A Deep Dive into the Capricho Gaudí Tour

This tour promises a taste of the best of Cantabria, blending jaw-dropping natural sights, stunning modernist architecture, and historic villages—all from the comfort of a bus. While I haven’t personally taken it, the detailed reviews, comprehensive itinerary, and enthusiastic feedback suggest it’s a solid choice for those eager to uncover the region’s authentic beauty.

What excites us most about this experience is the chance to see Gaudí’s Capricho—a rare gem of modernist architecture—and walk amongst sequoia giants that seem to belong to another world. Add in a stroll through Santillana del Mar, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, and you have a well-rounded day filled with visual delights and cultural insights. The inclusion of guided tours, round-trip transportation, and tickets makes it especially appealing for visitors who want a hassle-free, enriching day out.

A potential caveat? The tour’s duration can stretch from 5 to 10 hours depending on your schedule, so it’s worth considering how much time you want to dedicate to each stop. Also, the group sizes and guide quality can vary, with some reviewers noting slight inconsistencies. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Cantabria without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour generally hits the mark. It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, architecture, and history, and don’t mind a full day of exploring.

Good To Know:

• Diverse Highlights: From ancient villages to modernist architecture and giant redwoods, this tour offers a broad spectrum of sights.
• Expert Guides & Included Tickets: Knowledgeable guides and all entrance fees included make for a smooth experience.
• Flexible Duration: Ranges from 5 to 10 hours—perfect if you’re tight on time or want a full-day adventure.
• Authentic Experience: You’ll visit truly unique spots, like Gaudí’s Capricho and the impressive Sequoia forest.
• Local Flavors: Free time in towns allows for sampling local cuisine, adding a tasty dimension.
• Value for Money: At $53, it feels like a comprehensive, all-in-one excursion, especially with transportation and tickets covered.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering the Natural and Architectural Wonders of Cantabria

This day trip covers a lot of ground, making it an ideal way to see the region’s highlights without the stress of driving or organizing multiple tickets. Starting with the Monumento Natural de las Secuoyas del Monte Cabezón, you’ll be wowed by redwoods that reach up to 40 meters, a natural spectacle that rivals similar sights in the US but remains relatively undiscovered by international travelers. The walk through these ancient trees offers a sense of stepping into a living cathedral—quiet, majestic, and humbling.

The Redwood Forest: Nature’s Grandeur

The guided visit here is a standout feature, with the tour explicitly including a guided walk. Reviewers mention the experience as a peaceful encounter with nature, with the forest acting as a giant, green cathedral. Some travelers, like one from Belgium, found the organization of the visit slightly lacking, but most appreciated the guidance and the views. Be prepared for about 45 minutes here, enough to soak in the serenity without feeling rushed.

Comillas & Gaudí’s Capricho: A Feast for the Eyes

Next, the tour swings into Comillas, a charming town famous for its architectural gems. A quick panoramic drive introduces you to landmarks like the Pontifical University and Belarre Palace, giving you a taste of its grandeur. The highlight, however, is the guided visit to Gaudí’s Capricho. As Gaudí’s only work in northern Spain, this curiosity of modernist architecture is a real treat.

The guided tour of Capricho lasts about an hour, during which you can admire Gaudí’s inventive use of shapes, colors, and materials. Expect detailed commentary on what makes this building unique—its quirky turrets, intricate tile work, and the way Gaudí’s style anticipates his later works in Barcelona. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides for making the complex architecture understandable and interesting.

Lunch & Local Flavors

After the visit, you’ll have over an hour to relax and explore local cuisine. The included free time allows you to sample traditional dishes—think hearty stews, fresh seafood, or regional cheeses—at one of the many restaurants in Comillas. This break is appreciated by travelers who love combining sightseeing with tasting authentic flavors.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Santillana del Mar: Medieval Magic

The trip concludes in Santillana del Mar, often hailed as one of Spain’s prettiest villages. Its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and quaint squares provide a perfect setting for a relaxed walk. The guided tour here focuses on the most iconic sights—its churches, old houses, and the famous Altamira Museum (if time permits). An extra 30 minutes are allocated for wandering freely, so you can hunt for souvenirs or snap that perfect photo of the town’s picturesque streets.

Reviewers find Santillana del Mar truly enchanting, and many mention the well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere as highlights. One guest from the UK commented on their guide Santiago, who was very knowledgeable and funny, making the experience both informative and enjoyable despite some rain.

Practical Details & Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Transportation & Timing: The bus ride between sites is around 30 minutes each way, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery. The total duration varies, so check availability if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Cost & Value: For $53, you get round-trip transportation, entry tickets, and guided tours—a good deal considering the number of sites and the convenience.
• Tour Guides: While most reviews highlight engaging and knowledgeable guides, some mention occasional language barriers or slight organizational hiccups. It’s advisable to arrive promptly and clarify meeting points.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential since you’ll be walking quite a bit. Also consider bringing a raincoat, as weather in Cantabria can be unpredictable.
• Accessibility: The tour is not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs or electric wheelchairs, so check your mobility beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, architectural wonder, and historic charm, all packaged into a single day trip. The inclusion of expert guides and tickets adds value, making it a convenient choice for visitors who want a structured yet authentic experience of Cantabria’s highlights.

For culture lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, this trip provides a fantastic overview without feeling rushed. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase the region’s diversity—whether it’s the giant redwoods, Gaudí’s quirky creation, or the medieval streets of Santillana del Mar.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Cantabria’s most photogenic spots with the ease of organized transport, this tour is a dependable and enriching option. It’s especially suitable for those with limited time but a deep curiosity about Northern Spain’s gems.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip bus transfers from Santander are included, making the logistics easy and stress-free.

How long is the total tour?
The duration ranges from 5 to 10 hours depending on the selected schedule, giving flexibility based on your available day.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all tickets for Gaudí’s Capricho and the redwood forest are included in the price.

Can I explore the stops freely?
Yes, after guided visits, you get free time for lunch in Comillas and exploring Santillana del Mar.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and possibly a raincoat are recommended due to the outdoor nature of many stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or limited mobility?
The tour isn’t ideal for non-folding wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs, and children should be comfortable walking for extended periods.

All in all, this guided day trip offers a comprehensive, value-packed way to see the very best of Cantabria—perfect for curious travelers eager for a day filled with natural beauty, architectural surprises, and historical charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: