Couple relaxing in a jacuzzi in the Balneario de Las Caldas spa, Cantabria, Spain

Cantabria's traditional thermal spa

Cantabria

This northern area of Spain is a prime location for health tourism thanks to the mineral medicinal properties of its waters. As well as swimming at beautiful beaches, discovering coastal villages and emblematic locations like Santillana del Mar, crossing impressive green landscapes like the Pasiegos Valleys and eating meals to write home about, if you visit this region, you can enjoy its spa resorts, as elegant and classic as they are innovative. Below you will find four ideas to help you choose your favourite place to rest, take care of yourself and relax:

  • Outside view of the Balneario de Puente Viesgo spa, Cantabria

    Balneario de Puente Viesgo spa

    Puente Viesgo (37 km from Santander)This is one of the most famous spas in Spain, and you'll find it in the middle of the Pas river valley. The Gran Hotel Balneario de Puente Viesgo spa hotel is known for its waters rich in chlorine, sodium, bicarbonate and calcium, and for its services including thermal baths, hydro tubs, seaweed treatments, Dead Sea-water baths and hydromassages.This spa resort also includes a thermal leisure centre known as the Templo del Agua or Water Temple, covering some 2000 m2 and featuring a flotation pool. What is there to do nearby?You don't have to venture far from this spa to visit prehistoric caves, such as those found in Castillo or in Monedas, which have been declared World Heritage Sites. You can also join routeguided walking and hiking routes suitable for all levels.

  • Mineral medical thermal water swimming pool at the Balneario de La Hermida spa, Cantabria

    Balneario de La Hermida spa

    Peñarrubia (90 km from Santander)It's always good to escape the hustle and bustle. Doing so with the Picos de Europa National Park as a backdrop, however, can't fail to be exciting. This spa is next to a gorge of the same name, almost on the border with Asturias. Although it reopened in 2006, its thermal waters, at over 60º, have been visited since 1881. These waters are ideal for dermatological conditions, respiratory problems or musculoskeletal problems. A place to find the well-being you've been seeking.What is there to do nearby?If hiking through the many routes nestled amongst the Picos de Europa National Park isn't enough for you, you'll find Peñarrubia very close to the spa. This small town, where time seems to have stopped still in the Middle Ages, boasts the spectacular Santa Catalina viewpoint. Just a stone's throw away, the unique Mythological Path of the creatures of Monte Hozarco begins.

  • Outside the Aquaxana at Las Caldas spa, Cantabria

    Balneario de Las Caldas spa

    Las Caldas de Besaya (37 km from Santander)A site where you can not only immerse yourself in its waters, but also in its history. The Las Caldas de Besaya spa is the oldest operational spa in the region, and is synonymous not only with tradition, but also with quality.Seven springs supply this spa resort on the banks of the river Besaya. The Romans themselves used its waters and Queen Isabel II also experienced its charm, seeking to benefit from its waters rich in chlorine, bicarbonate, sodium and nitrogen, and whose bathtub is still preserved there today. These waters are beneficial for those with respiratory illnesses or skin conditions. What is there to do nearby?You can find the Nuestra Señora de Las Caldas shrine very close to the spa. This Baroque architectural ensemble is the subject of many legends, in which the river Besaya always plays a starring role.If you would prefer to get some exercise outside, there are routes both for walking (such as to Riocorvo, Viérnoles or Viesca Park) and for cycling (Los Corrales de Buelna – Suances).

  •  Outside view of the gardens and swimming pool at Castilla Termal Balneario de Solares spa, Cantabria

    Castilla Termal Balneario de Solares spa

    Solares (18 km from Santander)Dating back more than eight centuries, the complex was renovated in 2006, converting it into a modern and elegant space, while maintaining its romantic style.Nestled in the heart of the Trasmiera region, its bicarbonate, chlorinated, calcium and sodium waters are famous for their properties making them perfect for diuretic, metabolic, digestive and nervous system treatments. In addition, their Roman baths and children's spa make this place an ideal destination to enjoy with the family.What is there to do nearby?In this location, water is the star. As well as at the spa, you can enjoy it in the sea that bathes the bay and in the Fuencaliente spring, the source of the famous Solares waters. Hiking, cultural heritage... you'll be spoilt for choice.

As well as staying and spoiling yourself at these spa resorts, don't forget that in Cantabria, you'll find dozens of other places to enjoy, such as the city of Santander, tourist destinations like San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas and Santillana del Mar, or the Soplao caves, among many more.

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