According to a Frommer's guide to the best small towns and villages in Spain, Jean-Paul Sartre called Santillana "the prettiest village in Spain." Due north of Madrid, near Bilbao, on the Bay of Biscay, lies the medieval village of Santillan del Mar in Spain. A cultural hot spot and World Heritage sight, the village is part of the historical town of Cantabria where Romanesque Spanish architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries fill streets and makes up hotels. When searching for a hotel in Santillana, choosing one that is historic, authentically decorated and comfortable is the ideal way to go.
The Altamira Hotel, located in central Santillana del Mar, is an historic Cantabrian mansion dating back to the 16th century. Guests in the hotel can choose from 32 rooms, two of which feature a lounge and hardwood floors. Rooms include modern amenities like telephone, satellite TV and heating. As of January 2011, room rates start from 62 euros ($82 USD) to 104 euros ($138 USD) euros per night, depending on high or low season.
Located near the town center's Plaza Mayor, the hotel is situated in an old manor house dating back to the 12th century. The hotel's 15 guest rooms are medium-sized and are furnished with authentic Spanish-rustic decor and have panoramic views of Santillana. The hotel is composed of two houses: La Casa de la Marquesa (18th Century) and la Casa Azul (19th Century), which are across the street from each other. Guests enjoy the hotel's main restaurant, the Don Porfirio Bar and either standard-double, royal or imperial suites. The hotel also offers a business center and free Wi-Fi. Room rates, as of January 2011, start from 70 Euros ($93 USD) to 200 Euros ($266 USD) for a double or Imperial-style suite.
The Los Infantes hotel, part of the Hotel Santillana chain, is a comfortable and aesthetic choice. Housed in an 18th-century palace, the hotel is located on Santillana's main road leading into the village. Guests at Los Infantes enjoy the beamed ceilings, lounges furnished with tapestries, the antiques and paintings throughout the hotel. Guest rooms are small but cozy and include full bathroom. Studio apartment rooms include full kitchenettes. Two rooms feature balconies with countryside views. The hotel's facilities include a restaurant and a bar. As of January 2011, room rates start from 73 Euros ($97 USD) for a double; 95 Euros ($126 USD) for a suite.
Hotel Cuevas I-II is more of traditional and family-focused hotel. A bit larger than most quaint historic hotels, Cuevas offers a total of 40 guest rooms. Hotel facilities include a Spanish restaurant, a café and bar, and a garden area. Guest rooms include a full bath, heating, and all guests have access to free parking. Hotel guests can visit the nearby Altamira Caves, beaches and World Heritage touristic sites starting from the hotel. Room rates, which include breakfast, as of January 2011, start from 40 Euros ($53 USD) to 100 Eurose ($133 USD).
