7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Santander

Santander, a picturesque city on the northern coast of Spain, offers digital nomads a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. While the city itself provides a vibrant atmosphere for work and leisure, its location also serves as a perfect base for exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural offerings of the region. From stunning beaches to historic towns and hidden gems, there's a weekend getaway for every taste. Here are seven destinations that promise to enrich your experience as a digital nomad living in Santander.

Bilbao

Just a short trip from Santander, Bilbao is a cultural hub known for its modern architecture and the iconic Guggenheim Museum. As a digital nomad, you'll appreciate the city's blend of history and innovation. Explore the Old Town's charming streets, indulge in Basque cuisine, and enjoy the vibrant art scene. Bilbao's transformation from an industrial port to a design-forward city is an inspiration for creatives and entrepreneurs alike.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Bilbao from Santander is by bus or car. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours by road.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk through the Arenal Bridge at night when the city lights create a magical atmosphere along the Nervión River.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Gran Bilbao for its stylish rooms and proximity to the city center. For a unique experience, the Hotel Miró offers views of the Guggenheim Museum.

Where to Eat: Visit Café Iruña, a historic café known for its pintxos and ornate, early-20th-century decor. For a modern twist on Basque cuisine, dine at Mina Restaurant, which offers a tasting menu with a view of the river.

Picos de Europa National Park

For a complete change of scenery, the Picos de Europa National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder. This mountain range offers digital nomads a chance to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. Hiking trails range from leisurely walks to challenging climbs, providing stunning views of the dramatic landscape. The park is also home to traditional mountain villages where you can experience local culture and hospitality.

How to Get There: The park is best accessed by car from Santander, taking approximately 2.5 hours to reach the heart of the Picos de Europa.

Travel Tip: Take the Fuente Dé cable car for an effortless ascent and enjoy panoramic views of the Cantabrian Mountains.

Where to Stay: Hotel Rebeco is ideally located for exploring the park and offers comfortable accommodations. For a rustic experience, consider the charming Parador de Fuente Dé.

Where to Eat: After a day of hiking, enjoy hearty local dishes at Restaurante del Lago Enol, situated by the beautiful Enol Lake.

Comillas

Comillas is a lesser-known gem on the Cantabrian coast, boasting stunning modernist architecture, including the El Capricho building by Antoni Gaudí. This quaint town offers a peaceful retreat with its beautiful beaches, historic university, and the Sobrellano Palace. Digital nomads will find inspiration in the town's artistic heritage and the tranquil atmosphere of its streets and seaside.

How to Get There: Comillas is an easy drive from Santander, taking about 40 minutes by car.

Travel Tip: Visit the Palacio de Sobrellano and its adjacent chapel, which showcase the grandeur of 19th-century Spanish architecture.

Where to Stay: Abba Comillas Golf Hotel provides a comfortable stay with the added bonus of a golf course. For a beachfront experience, Hotel Mar enjoys a prime location.

Where to Eat: La Aldea Comillas offers a delightful dining experience with local seafood and traditional Cantabrian dishes.

Laredo

Laredo, a coastal town east of Santander, is known for its expansive beach, Playa La Salvé. The old town, Puebla Vieja, is a maze of narrow streets leading to the beautiful Gothic church of Santa María de la Asunción. Digital nomads can enjoy water sports, beach relaxation, and historical exploration all in one place. Laredo's festive atmosphere, especially during the Battle of Flowers, is infectious and provides a lively break from work.

How to Get There: Laredo is about a 40-minute drive from Santander. Regular buses also connect the two towns.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in late August, don't miss the Battle of Flowers, a colorful parade and one of Cantabria's most famous festivals.

Where to Stay: Hotel Cortijo is a great option for its central location and comfortable rooms. For beach proximity, check out Hotel Cosmopol.

Where to Eat: El Pescador is a local favorite for its fresh seafood and traditional Spanish dishes.

Liérganes

Liérganes is a hidden treasure nestled in the Cantabrian hills, known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture and the legend of the Fish-Man. This small village offers a tranquil escape with its natural thermal springs and picturesque streets. Digital nomads will appreciate the slow pace of life and the opportunity to recharge in a serene environment.

How to Get There: The journey to Liérganes from Santander takes about 30 minutes by car or train.

Travel Tip: Take a relaxing dip in the Balneario de Liérganes, where the thermal waters are said to have healing properties.

Where to Stay: The historic Gran Hotel Balneario de Liérganes provides a luxurious stay with spa facilities. For a cozy atmosphere, choose the family-run Hotel Miera.

Where to Eat: El Bigote Mexicano offers a surprising twist with its Mexican-inspired Cantabrian dishes in a charming setting.

Castro Urdiales

Castro Urdiales presents a delightful mix of maritime heritage and medieval architecture. This coastal town is less frequented by international tourists, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads seeking an authentic Spanish experience. The Gothic Church of Santa María and the Castle-Lighthouse are must-see landmarks. The town's harbor and promenade offer a picturesque setting for evening strolls.

How to Get There: Castro Urdiales is about a 45-minute drive from Santander. Buses also run regularly between the two locations.

Travel Tip: Explore the seafront promenade and enjoy the local custom of a "paseo" at sunset, followed by tapas in one of the many bars.

Where to Stay: Las Rocas Playa Hotel boasts stunning sea views and modern amenities. For a historic setting, consider staying at the Hotel El Hidalgo.

Where to Eat: Asador El Puerto is renowned for its grilled meats and fish, offering a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine with a view of the harbor.

Valles Pasiegos

The Valles Pasiegos is a rural area known for its lush green valleys and traditional pasiego culture. This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for digital nomads who enjoy outdoor activities and want to experience the rural side of Spain. Hiking, cheese tasting, and exploring the local "cabañas pasiegas" (stone huts) provide a glimpse into the pastoral life of northern Spain.

How to Get There: The Valles Pasiegos can be reached by car in about an hour from Santander.

Travel Tip: Try the delicious "sobaos pasiegos" and "quesada pasiega," traditional desserts that are a specialty of the region.

Where to Stay: The charming Posada La Anjana offers a rustic stay with modern comforts, set in a picturesque location. For a spa retreat, the Gran Hotel Balneario Puente Viesgo is a luxurious option.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Casa Enrique serves up local cuisine with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.