Nestled in northern Spain, Cantabria is a natural paradise that combines geological wonders, dreamlike landscapes and magical hideaways. This unique location treasures secrets that amaze those who discover them: fascinatingly beautiful caves dating back thousands of years, waterfalls that hypnotise with their power, and landscapes that seem to be straight out of a fairy tale. Whether you are a nature lover or an explorer in search of adventure, Cantabria will seduce you with its incomparable charm.

Cantabria is a paradise full of magical places that invite both adventure and exploration. Its natural treasures include the Redwood Forest of Cabezón de la Sal, where imposing trees create a unique atmosphere, perfect for relaxing walks in a serene environment. Oyambre Beach, unspoilt and surrounded by dunes and meadows, is a haven of peace far from the hustle and bustle, ideal for switching off. Meanwhile, the majestic mountain range Los Picos de Europa captivate with their spectacular views and varied hiking routes, making them a must-see for adventurers and mountain lovers. Here is the Parador de Fuente Dé, located in the heart of the Liébana region, within the Picos de Europa Nature Reserve, a welcoming place to rest after a day's exploration.

However, if you are looking to discover a truly magical spot, Limpias is the perfect place. This picturesque municipality, surrounded by mountains, offers a wonderful natural environment that invites you to relax. Strategically located just 52 kilometres from Santander and close to the Santoña, Noja and Joyel Marshes Nature Reserve, Limpias stands out for its serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is also home to a magnificent 20th century palace, now converted into a Parador, which combines history and comfort in a dream setting.

On 1 April, the emblematic Parador de Limpias, will reopen after major renovation work. The works that have been carried out involve a significant improvement of the infrastructure, adapting it to the needs of the future without losing respect for the immense historical and monumental value that characterises this building. The refurbishment work has focused on two key areas: the sustainability and the improvement of the customer experience. In line with Paradores' firm commitment to promote a more responsible tourism model, a large part of the efforts have been focused on increasing the energy efficiency of the building. In addition, significant improvements have been made to the decoration of the emblematic Palacio del Parador de Limpias, modernising the facilities to ensure greater accessibility and comfort for our visitors, without neglecting the elegance and style that distinguish it. With these refurbishments, we confirm our dedication to offering a unique and responsible experience, respecting our history while looking to the future.

Set in a majestic estate in Cantabria, encompassing ornamental gardens and protected forests, the Parador de Limpias is located in the historic Palacio de Eguilior, which was the summer residence of King Alfonso XIII. This place combines the charm of its stately architecture with modern comforts, offering a unique experience. Its facilities include a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, perfect for relaxing and connecting with the natural surroundings. In addition, the parador is pet-friendly, allowing you to share every moment of your stay and enjoy an unforgettable experience with your faithful companion.

The Parador's restaurant is renowned for its traditional Cantabrian cuisine, prepared with fresh, seasonal products. It is the perfect place to savour authentic dishes while enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings.

What’s more, the Parador de Limpias is an ideal starting point for exploring the treasures of Cantabria. From the prehistoric caves of Covalanas and Mirón, to the beaches of Laredo and Santoña, the region offers incomparable natural and cultural wealth. If you’d like to immerse yourself in the calm and charm of Limpias, its town centre offers a fascinating tour of traditional houses full of character, the historic school of San Vicente de Paúl and the picturesque chapel of Santa Isabel. The latter, always cloaked in a blanket of ivy, adds a unique and magical air to the landscape, making it a place to be explored and admired.

This Parador is more than just accommodation; it is an invitation to relax, discover the charming nearby villages and immerse yourself in the beauty of Cantabria.

In addition to the Parador de Limpias and the Fuente Dé, Cantabria is home to two other Paradores full of history and charm. One of them is the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas, located in the heart of Santillana del Mar. This Parador is housed in an elegant 17th-century mansion, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a town that has been declared a National Monument. On the other hand, the Parador de Santillana del Mar will remain closed until 2026,, pending future renovations to preserve its historical legacy.

BOOKING AT THE PARADOR DE LIMPIAS

Cantabria, with more than 6,000 caves, is a true paradise for speleology enthusiasts, where history and geology come together to form a perfect combination. Among the most prominent caves is Altamira, near Santillana del Mar, famous for its cave paintings dating back 14,000 years. Although the original cave is closed for conservation, a replica of the paintings is on display in the Altamira Museum. Another highlight is El Castillo Cave, in Puente Viesgo, which houses cave art more than 40,000 years old, with depictions of hands and animals. In Ramales de la Victoria, the Cullalvera Cave is known for its imposing entrance and its interior full of stalactites and stalagmites, making it a perfect place for geology enthusiasts. Finally, the Soplao Cave, near Rionansa, is famous for its spectacular aragonite formations, which have earned it the name of the "Sistine Chapel of geology", and is considered one of the most impressive in Europe.

Cantabria's natural wealth is reflected in its impressive waterfalls, which are perfectly integrated with mountains, forests and valleys, creating landscapes of incomparable beauty. Among the most outstanding are the Lamiña Waterfalls, in Barcenillas, which, surrounded by a lush forest, offer a serene environment ideal for a peaceful walk. The source of the river Asón, in the Collados del Asón Nature Reserve, is a majestic 50-metre-high waterfall, considered one of the most spectacular in the region, and a perfect spot for hikers and photographers. The Cascadas del Río Gándara Viewing Point, in Soba, offers panoramic views of the waterfalls and the valley, allowing you to enjoy the power of the water in its natural course. Finally, in Ramales de la Victoria, the Cascadas Viewing Point also provides impressive views of the nearby waterfalls, allowing visitors to take in a unique natural landscape.

Make the most of these rainy days to dream about your next getaway. Maybe Cantabria, with its natural magic and fascinating nooks and crannies, will become the destination you were waiting for your next adventure.