Hotel Silken Rio Santander 4*

This stylish, comfortable hotel is in a superb position opposite the Sardinero beach and only a short drive from the ferry terminal. It has a spacious bar/cafeteria and the Marea Alta restaurant with its creative, modern cuisine has an excellent reputation with the locals (open mid June-mid Sept. Closed Sun). You can also be sure of a good night's sleep in the air conditioned bedrooms which are sound-proofed for comfort. Garage parking approx. 16-21€/night.

Taxis are available from the terminal or you can catch a bus from outside the post office (200m).

Around the corner from the Silken Rio you'll find the casino and a selection of bars where the locals gather in the evening, whilst just opposite is the Balneario de la Concha restaurant with large picture windows that afford fabulous views of the beach - it's not cheap but it's worth the expense for the outlook alone! And after a nice dinner or relaxing drink what better than to stroll along the lovely promenade that leads up to the Magdalena Palace through beautiful gardens. There is also a regular bus service into the city centre which stops nearby.

During the last 2 weeks of July Santander holds its Semana Grande - a week of celebration with shows, activities, concerts and fireworks (chupinazo) that take place at different points at different times all over the city. It's a fabulous few days of fun for locals and visitors alike. And if you are lucky enough to be here in September, don't miss the Fair of the Nations at the local football stadium where a variety of restaurants and shops from different countries come together and offer a wide range of their local gastronomy and products..