Altamira Caves
The Altamira Caves are one of the most important cultural landmarks in Cantabria and a must-see destination during your visit to the region. The renowned Altamira Museum is located in Santillana del Mar, just a 20-minute drive from our hostel, La Casa de Gándara.
Reasons to visit the Altamira Caves as a group
Artistic inspiration
The Altamira cave paintings have left a profound mark on the history of art. They inspired renowned artists such as Picasso and gave rise to the Altamira School of modern painting. Visiting these caves allows you to connect with the origins of art and appreciate the earliest artistic expressions of humanity.
Cultural influence
The Altamira Caves have influenced many forms of cultural expression, from music and poetry to popular culture. Artists from different disciplines have found inspiration in these ancient representations, demonstrating their lasting impact on human creativity.
Historical heritage
These caves are an archaeological treasure and an important World Heritage Site. By visiting them, you will have the opportunity to connect with human history and gain a deeper understanding of our prehistoric past.
Reopening to the public
For many years, the Altamira Caves were closed to the public in order to preserve the cave paintings. However, since their reopening in 2014, visitors once again have the opportunity to admire these extraordinary prehistoric artworks and appreciate their beauty and significance.
Convenient location
Our hostel, La Casa de Gándara, is located just a 20-minute drive from the Altamira Caves. This proximity allows you to stay nearby, making it easier to plan your visit and make the most of your time in the region.
Comfort and services
At La Casa de Gándara, you will find comfortable and welcoming accommodation for your group. With private bathrooms in every room and large green outdoor areas, our hostel offers a peaceful and relaxing environment to unwind after exploring the caves.
Versatility
In addition to accommodation, our hostel offers adaptable spaces for events and celebrations, suitable for both children and adults. This allows you to organize complementary activities alongside your visit to the Altamira Caves and enjoy special moments with your group.
Why are the Altamira Caves so important?
The importance and influence of the Altamira cave paintings extend far beyond the scientific and historical community. These prehistoric artworks have left a deep imprint on the art world, inspiring painters such as Picasso and leading to the creation of the Altamira School of modern painting.
The Altamira Caves have also influenced music, poetry and popular culture. Musicians, poets and artists from many disciplines have found inspiration in these ancient representations. Even Google paid tribute to the caves with one of its Doodles in 2018, featuring the famous Altamira bison.
It is important to note that visiting the Altamira Caves was not always possible. Despite being the site where cave paintings were first identified, access was restricted and the caves were closed to the public from 2002. This changed in 2014, when these remarkable prehistoric artworks were reopened to visitors. Today, both the museum and the caves welcome visitors eager to learn, explore and connect with history.
Looking for accommodation near the Altamira Caves in Cantabria?
If you are looking for accommodation near the Altamira Caves in Cantabria, consider staying at our hostel, La Casa de Gándara, located in the peaceful village of Llanos de Penagos, just a 20-minute drive from the caves. This 17th-century country house has been recently restored and offers accommodation for large groups in a charming rural setting.
With 14 rooms equipped with private bathrooms, our hostel is ideal for families, groups and individual travelers. In addition, we offer approximately 6,000 square meters of green outdoor space, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature after a day of exploration.
At our hostel, you will not only find a comfortable place to stay during your visit to the Altamira Caves, but also a versatile space suitable for events and celebrations, for both children and adults. Feel free to contact us for more information and to book your stay. We will be happy to welcome you to La Casa de Gándara.