This 7-day small-group road trip takes you on an unforgettable journey through Northern Spain’s wild landscapes, medieval towns, and coastal gems. Starting with an overnight cabin ferry from Portsmouth to Santander, you’ll explore Cantabria’s beaches, hike in the Picos de Europa mountains, soak up Spanish hospitality in Potes, and discover a region rich in history, culture, and food.
Travel in comfort in a minibus, stay in hand-picked hotels and B&Bs, and enjoy a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
Portsmouth Ferry Terminal → Santander (Spain) → Portsmouth
Portsmouth check-in: 16:00 (overnight sailing with cabins)
Ferry Cabins + Local Hotels / Rural Inns (Shared & Private Rooms Available)
Mountains & Villages
Breathtaking drives through the Picos de Europa with stops in Potes, a charming stone-built town surrounded by peaks, perfect for tapas, wine, and exploring.
Coastal Charm
Relax on golden beaches, visit fishing villages, and walk along scenic coastal paths.
Food & Wine
Taste Cantabria’s rustic cuisine — hearty stews, local cheeses, fresh seafood, and Rioja wines.
History & Culture
From medieval monasteries to mountain hermitages, experience Spain’s rich history up close.
Small Group Adventure
A maximum of 14 guests means a sociable, flexible trip with plenty of space in the minibus (and luggage room for wine & cheese finds!).
Check in at Portsmouth by 16:00 for your overnight sailing. Enjoy dinner, drinks, and sea views before retiring to your cabin.
Sleep: Ferry Cabin (Night 1).
Arrive in Santander mid-morning. Explore the city’s elegant bay, then drive west along the coast to visit Comillas and Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s prettiest medieval towns. Evening group dinner.
Sleep: Santillana / Comillas area (Night 2).
Bus: 2–3 hrs. Walking: light.
Scenic drive into the Picos de Europa mountains. Arrive in Potes, a beautiful stone town, for lunch and exploration. Afternoon hike or optional Fuente Dé cable car ride for incredible mountain views. Evening free in Potes.
Sleep: Potes (Night 3).
Bus: 3 hrs. Walking: moderate.
Head deeper into the mountains to visit Covadonga and its famous lakes. Learn about the historic sanctuary before continuing to Cangas de Onís, gateway to the Picos.
Sleep: Cangas de Onís (Night 4).
Bus: 3–4 hrs. Walking: moderate.
Descend towards the coast, stopping in Llanes and San Vicente de la Barquera — charming fishing towns with beaches and castle views. Evening free for seafood dinner by the sea.
Sleep: San Vicente / coastal area (Night 5).
Bus: 2–3 hrs. Walking: light.
Morning drive back to Santander. Free time for shopping, tapas, or beach stroll before boarding the evening ferry back to Portsmouth.
Sleep: Ferry Cabin (Night 6).
Bus: 2 hrs. Walking: light.
Morning arrival in Portsmouth. Trip ends with new friends, unforgettable mountain views, and a suitcase full of Spanish memories.
