Published on Dec, 2024
An absolutely great day with our guide, Gabriela. Our full-day private tour of the caves, Cueva el Castillo, Cueva las Monedas and Altamira, with side excursions to Puente Viesgo and Santillana Del Mar, was fantastic. As a local, Gabriela has extensive knowledge of the area and the history of the caves. In fact, her knowledge of the caves equalled or even surpassed that of the official guides. Gabriela speaks both Spanish and English so she made history come alive for both my wife (who is Spanish and English speaking) and I (who am English speaking). It was a special privilege to have Gabriela narrate the history of the Altamira cave because when there, the other visitors were only doing self-guided tours.
We’re hoping to return to Santander to do additional excursions with Gabriela.
Notes:
Book your trip very early because the admissions to Cuevas Castillo and Las Monedas are very limited.
You have to be in good physical condition to make the trek to, and through, these two caves.
The original Altamira cave is closed to tourists because of their negative impact on the cave and its paintings. This tour is of an exact recreation of the caves. There is easy access on foot or for those with disabilities.
