It is no surprise that some of Santander’s finest hotels convey an aristocratic air, for the city was a pioneer in promoting the healthy “wave baths” that drew nineteenth‑century high society. It was no accident that it became the first destination to announce, in the mid‑nineteenth century, the “sun and sea tourism” in La Gaceta de Madrid.
Converted into an urban spa, the Cantabrian capital has since welcomed all kinds of travelers in search of a good coastal life where there is room for aquatic sports, contemporary exhibitions, and a seafood gastronomy that respects the produce and the flavors of yesteryear, but moves forward (or rather sails) with strength toward a more creative and experimental future.
Eurostars Hotel Real
To emulate that first dip taken in Santander waters by Queen Victoria Eugenia, Victoria Eugenia, wife of Alfonso XIII, you simply need to book one of the hotel’s rooms at the Eurostars Hotel Real, which was born to host the court that accompanied the royal couple during their holidays at the nearby Magdalena Palace. Sleeping like a king during your vacation has never been this effortless.
Designed in a neofrench style by architect Javier González de Riancho and inaugurated in 1917, this five‑star Grand Luxe, unique in its category in the city, houses several suites offering views across the Santander bay, with the Cantabrian Sea and Somo Beach as a backdrop. If you dare to dream bigger, follow the example of Bruce Springsteen or Alejandro Sanz and stay in the Royal Suite.
The elegant dining room of its restaurant El Puntal, named in homage to the famous Cantabrian beach, leans toward English refinement. Yet it is the flavors of Cantabria that predominate on the menu, from Cantabrian calamari rings with ink aioli to oven‑baked turbot with pan‑fried potatoes, and a beef tournedo with Bejes‑Tresviso D.O.P. sauce. The latter is prepared with the blue cheese that originates in the Picos de Europa.
