Comillas Travel Guide

Comillas, right in the heart Spain is a small town that captures the heart of quiet travelers and adventurers alike. The town of Comillas, although relatively small in land area, has cultivated a following of tourists. It is located in the western part of the Cantabric Coast, around 50 km. away form Santander.

Comillas is home to a rich Spanish culture with just the right sprinkle of a modern touch to it — a rare blend of the traditional and the contemporary. Fishing has always been the primary source of living for its people.The town is also widely known to nurture religious communities with its magnificent architectural assembly. In the 16th century it became widely utilized as a fishing port and a chief contributor to the town’s economic growth.

During the 17th and 18th century, Comillas was commonly referred to as “an archbishop’s town”, since most of prelates during that time were born from the humble town. Even during the onset of the 19th century, Comillas remained unattached to modern civilization, having no means of communication. However, in 1852, with the discovery of calamine miles, the town fast-tracked to modernization. This paved way to building infrastructures, one of which is the Santillana – Comillas road. Communication has relatively improved and with all these developments, the small town of Comillas attracts both local and international visitors, making it a tourism hotspot especially during summer. 

Can’t-Miss Beaches 

The town of Comillas takes pride in the tranquil beauty of the famous Coast of Cantabria. The fine white sand and water haven is an attraction any visitors should not miss to enjoy. You can stop by the coastline and satisfy your gastronomic fancy with your choice of bar or restaurants. The beach is quite far from the main city, but you will find the trip going there to be as much fun as dipping in the water. Along the beach is a wide parking space with several reserved parking for the disabled. If you are delighted by the thought of fishing you can go to the port at the end of the beach to catch some fresh fishes. But ultimately, the best part of the beach is the magnificent cool water you can dip in while basking in the sun. Sailing and surfing is a popular activity. Most people just can’t get enough of the Comillas coast and explore more by scuba diving. You will be awed by the magnificent communal under the sea. Colorful coral reefs and abundant sea creatures of different species just make the Comillas water even more lovable. 

Places of Interest

Comillas is an architectural masterpiece in itself. One of the town’s must-see attractions is the astounding Sobrellano Palace. Over time, the palacehas attracted visitors from all parts of the globe. The magnificent structure is a mixture of classical gothic patterns with just the right touch of modernism. This great ensemble was meticulously designed by the Juan Martorell in 1878. The idea of this religious abode is greatly inspired with models of great churches of Central Europe and England. State-of-the art religious sculptures by Antonio Gaudi, José Llimona y Barbany and Agapito Vallmitjana.

With its inauguration in the year 1881, the town of Comillas transformed into a spectacle of elegance. With the visit and stay of the Royal Family, including Alfonse XII, many impressive structures came to rise. Royal residences were adorned with luxurious décor and unique furniture. Kiosks and arches were built to welcome the royalties. From then on, Comillas became an attraction to tourists and locales. Anyone who appreciates historical and architectural splendor would love this place.

Another architectural gem is the world-renowned Capricho by Antonio Gaudi. It said to be designed sometime between 1883 to1885. A quick drive from the Sobrallano Palace, El Capricho is the perfect execution of the modernist – art nouveau style. It used to be a summer house of Máximo Díaz de Quijano in the 1980’s. Today, this wonderful sight of contemporary architecture and historical memoirs is an added attraction to the town of Comillas. You can dine out in classy restaurants with this masterpiece as your background. Gaudi fanatics can purchase some articles at the souvenir shop. For reservations you can call (34) 942 720 365 and (34) 942 720 842.