Annua, San Vicente de la Barquera

Cantabria, along with the rest of Northern Spain, has always been well known for its great home cooked, traditional food “comida casera” at its many small, family run restaurants.

But it has been raining stars here very recently as well! Since November last year this small region now boasts six one star Michelin restaurants, nicely spread out from east to west, all comfortably near to many of our houses and hotels.

Apart from the sheer excitement of the delicious eye-catching, innovative dishes, the prices surprisingly won’t burn a hole in your pocket for a special treat. The “menus de degustacíon” start off at 55€ a head at La Solana in Ampuero to 88€ at El Cenador de Amos in Villaverde de Pontones, both with wine included.

And as for locations, Annua in San Vicente de La Barquera stands out particularly. Almost “ floating” at the head of the beautiful Ría de La Barquera, as you sample one of the most popular dishes “desierto de foie gras” designed as a desert island, you could almost forgive yourself for thinking you were on one!

Though very popular with in-the-know Madrileños Novales retains a true Cantabrian character as does Casa Pepa. And with Cobreces beach just down the road and Comillas and Santillana close at hand what better base from which to explore and enjoy a great seaside holiday.

Set in a farming community yet with dramatic cliff-top walks and lovely beaches at hand, El Horreo captures the essence of western Asturias – and there’s a great little bar, restaurant in the village too!

Just west of Llanes at the foot of the mountains Barro is the ideal base to get the most out of eastern Asturias and Apartamentos Miracielos, just up from the beach is perfectly positioned for a great beach holiday!

Top floor apartment with sea views just a short walk from the lovely sandy beach at Cobreces – well placed for Comillas and Santillana too!

This apartment on two floors enjoys lovely views out over the orchard to the valley. There’s a shared sidrería for barbeques and roasts!

Nicely restored apartment for four makes a great base for walking, beaches and exploring the fishing villages which make this region famous. There’s a shared sidrería for barbeques and roasts!