Quality of Life

Cantabria is a privileged region due to its high quality of life. With a mild climate, it combines important elements such as art and nature, history and leisure, tradition and gastronomy.

Situated between sea and mountain, it has the typical characteristics of an Atlantic climate with mild temperatures all year round.

Its capital, Santander, with its spectacular bay, well-tended beaches and large green areas, is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Cantabria's public healthcare network is free, universal and one of the most efficient in the country. The Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital is a world leader in research and treatment, particularly in the areas of heart disease and transplants.

200 kilometres of coast, over a hundred beaches, one of Europe's best expanses of protected natural spaces, peaks exceeding a height of 2,500 metres above sea level, rivers with good fishing and Spain's biggest hunting reserve make Cantabria an exceptional place for lovers of nature and water sports. The Alto Campoo ski station, with around 25 km of skiable pistes, is enjoyed by enthusiasts of the various winter sports.

Lovers of golf have access to magnificent courses distributed around the entire region, some of which were the cradle of iconic international golfers such as Severiano Ballesteros.

The region is also rich in cultural activities. The Menéndez Pelayo University, a fixture among the most prominent figures in all fields of science and arts, is one of the main focal points. Another is the Santander International Festival, with a quality artistic line-up comparable to those of the top European dance, opera and music venues.

Cantabria has one of the richest and most extensive historical-cultural heritages in Europe. The Altamira Cave, renowned internationally as the "Sistine Chapel of Quaternary Art", attracts a large number of historians, archaeologists and visitors eager to learn more about our ancestors. The Soplao Cave, recently opened to the public, is also a world landmark due to its spectacular geology.

Gastronomy is another of the region's lures. The natural produce offered by land and sea provide the perfect combination in the regional cuisine, one of the most famous in Spain. The night life, fun and relaxed, can become, if desired, the perfect complement following a day's work.