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:
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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.In addition, this thermal complex also has a thermoludic installation called the Templo del Agua (Temple of Water), covering 2,000 square metres, with 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.
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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 to do nearby If hiking the endless routes through the Picos de Europa isn't enough to keep you entertained, close by is the spectacular viewpoint of Santa Catalina, which is also the setting off point for the original Mythological Trail of the Creatures of Mount Hozarco.
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Balneario de Las Caldas spa
Las Caldas de Besaya (35 km from Santander)A place where, as well as immersing yourself in its waters, you can immerse yourself 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).
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Castilla Termal Balneario de Solares spa
Solares (18 km from Santander)With more than eight centuries of history within its walls, the complex was refurbished in 2006, becoming a modern and elegant space, as it was able to maintain its romantic style.Located in the heart of the Trasmiera region, its bicarbonated, chlorinated, calcium and sodium waters are famous for their properties for diuretic, metabolic, digestive and nervous system treatments. In addition, its Roman pond and children's spa make this place an ideal destination for the whole family to enjoy.What is there to do nearby?In this location, water is the star. Find out for yourself taking a dip in the sea that laps the nearby bay of Santander. Moreover, the spring of Fuencaliente is not only the source of the benefits of the spa, but also of the famous Agua de Solares. Hiking, cultural heritage... you'll be spoilt for choice.
As well as staying at and pampering yourself at these spas, bear in mind that Cantabria is home to a wealth of other wonderful attractions, including the city of Santander, other tourist destinations such as San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas and Santillana del Mar, as well as the Cueva del Soplao, to name just a few.
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