Casa del Marques

Originally the residence of the first Marquis of Santillana, the Casa del Marqués is a splendid luxury hotel in a splendid location. Before you even reach the hotel you will be astounded by the medieval village of Santillana Del Mar. Although a justifiably popular tourist spot, the town is far from "preserved in aspic". It's a living village, and down at the far end you may find the local farmer bringing his cows or goats up for milking.

The facade of the Casa del Marques is a bluff stone 16th century edifice with large heavy wooden doors studded with ironwork and family coats-of-arms carved in stone on the wall above. It faces directly onto one of the tiny cobbled streets. Inside, the excellent decoration balances modern convenience with all the glorious sensations of a historic building. One of the first things that will face you inside is the staircase, carved in one piece from an oak tree more than 700 years old. Then as you continue, you will want to look into every corner to discover the next carefully restored treasure.

The 15 rooms (including a suite) are all generously sized and individually decorated, following a theme of French rustic style. They are fully equipped with telephone, mini-bar, safe, coffee machine and so on, but without disturbing the classic surroundings and period details.

Santillana Del Mar is semi-pedestrianised so it is good to know that the hotel has its own car park.

Meals

The dining room is a happy fusion of ancient stone walls and  modern glass dividers and doors. Snacks are available, or guests could choose to eat out in Santillana in one of the many varied restaurants.

The dining room also serves an excellent breakfast with local Cantabrian produce and home-baking.

Out and About

Santillana Del Mar: Right on the doorstep, this historic village has cobbled streets, medieval manor houses, museums and the collegiate church.
Beaches nearby
Golf (17 km)
Walking (many excellent routes of various grades of difficulty)
Horse-riding
Canoeing

Places to visit:
Santander (30 km): Casino, Palacio de la Magdalena, lighthouse, cathedral, museums.
Cabarceno ( 40 km): Vast open-air zoo with animals from all continents living free.
Altamira: Caves with pre-historic paintings (book well in advance to go into the painting chamber!)
Comillas: Good walks on the beaches and Paseo. Capricho de Gaudí, University, Sobrellano Palace.
Pasiegos Valleys (50 km): Puente Viesgo, Monte Castillo caves, hot springs, Pasiegos villages, museum of local culture.
Picos de Europa (100 km): Famous walking country with fantastic views. Cablecar ride at Fuente De. Santo Toribio monastery.
Covadonga (110 km): Basilica of the Virgin of Covadonga, lakes, national park, fishing villages, beaches.

All rooms provide free wi-fi, 24-hour room service, a television, minibar, coffee maker, and a pillow menu.

All the same luxuries but with more space and a balcony or terrace with garden views.