Hotel Real Hotel Real

On Spain's exotic and beautiful northern coast, Hotel Real is a luxury enclave perched between a famous beach and the historic sites of Santander.

Hotel Real is a particularly special hotel in the city of Santander, on Spain's north coast. This is a land of Roman ruins, astounding architecture, and the famous beaches of El Sardinero. Hotel Real overlooks the picturesque bay, from a perch on a hill between the water and the city's downtown core.

The exterior of the hotel is a stunning example of the Neo-French style that was so popular in Spain in the very early part of the 20th century. The decor inside is elegant and regal to a fault, with scads of luxurious fabrics and period furnishings. Drop by the El Puntal Restaurant for award-winning Cantabrian cuisine, and a look at the beautiful stained-glass window that dates to the building's inception.

To explore Santander, you'll need a couple of days at least, especially because you'll probably be unable to resist the sun-drenched temptation that is Playa Sardinero. When you escape the beach, be sure to visit the Santander Cathedral, portions of which date back to the 1100s.