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19th century palace (4*)
The Parador is only a short drive from the coast in the village of Limpias. Conveniently situated just south of the point half way between Bilbao and Santander, an easy distance to drive to either city, their airports or ports. The Parador de Limpias comprises a 20th-century palace designed by Emilio de la Torriente for a local nobleman and the original Palacio de Eguilior was used as the summer home of the council of King Alfonso XIII (reigned 1886–1931).
The interior of the Parador has all the elegance one would expect of a former palace and guests are greeted by a grand staircase fit for royalty. An extension to the palace is a light and airy modern wing, designed in the Bauhaus style offering bright, spacious rooms. The entrance to the palace grounds consists of a 20th century arch, truly reflecting its noble history. The Parador de Limpias boasts a restaurant with a large dining room that offers lovely views over the river and the countryside along its banks.
A pretty courtyard to the front of Parador de Limpias is perfect for evening strolls leading into the grounds. These include expansive gardens, a tennis court and a swimming pool (which is open in peak summer months). It is surrounded by 5 hectares of park land containing so many rare specimen trees that it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
As of 2025, considerable work has been done to improve energy saving and sustainability at the Parador including new lifts and an improved air conditioning system, as well as thermal and audio insulation. All underlining Paradors' commitment to environmentally-friendly practices.
Limpias is a small municipality located in the Eastern part of Cantabria. Its primary features being the surrounding countryside and beautiful historical buildings, it is a popular site for those wishing to explore rural areas of Spain. Since the early 20th century Limpias has been considered significant to many Spanish Catholics. Rumours began circulating in 1919 of people claiming to have seen the famous sculpture of Christ, located in the San Pedro Church, weeping; this made the area a popular pilgrimage spot with many of the devout travelling to see this miracle. Even today some still make their way to the church to pray to the famous figure. Its popularity among nobility during the 16th century is reflected in the large stately homes and palaces that make up the municipality. Its ancient Ribero port was particularly important during this period with ships departing for England and Flanders carrying iron, wood, and wheat sourced from Cantabria. This rich history is commemorated through Limpia’s River Museum, situated on a local river walk footpath.
The marvellous beaches of nearby Laredo attract many swimming enthusiasts. Opening out onto the Bay of Biscay, in the past its unique waters were a luxury of the surrounding nobility, and today it is popular among many tourists who flock to the northern coast to take advantage of the incredible swimming conditions. A short hike or drive from Limpias brings you to the small town of Ampuero. Famed for its running of the bulls during the San Fermín festival, it is also houses the shrine of the virgin ‘Bien Aparecida’, the patron saint of Cantabria.
One of Limpias' most attractive qualities is its ideal location between the northern cities of Santander and Bilbao, both of which are less than an hour’s drive away and this Parador is a popular rest stop for those arriving and departing via ferry. Limpias is an excellent choice for travellers looking for somewhere close enough for visits yet away from the busy city centres.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Restaurant opening times:
Breakfast: 8.00 to 11.00
Lunch: 13.30 to 16.00
Dinner: 20.00 to 22.30. It may be possible to arrive up to 22.00 and still enjoy a meal.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.00 to midnight offering bar snacks and lighter dishes.
The Parador is located in the town of Limpias. From Santander, take the A-8 motorway towards Bilbao until junction 173 (Colindres-Ampuero-Limpias), where you must change to the N-629 road towards Burgos-Logroño. Take the Limpias exit after 1 km. From Bilbao, take the A-8 towards Santander and exit at junction 173 (towards Burgos-Logroño). Take the Limpias exit after 1 km. From Madrid, take the N-1 motorway. In Burgos, take the N-623 towards Santander, or the A-1 toll-road towards Bilbao. From Castilla-León, take the N-627 towards Reinosa-Torrelavega-Santander. The Parador is 44 km from Santander and 60 km from Bilbao.
The Parador has three parking options and facilities for charging electric vehicles, the cost of which is payable locally. Outdoor parking next to the Parador building and in the garage are both available for a daily charge. Outdoor parking at the base of the hill, within the grounds, is free.
Part of 'Green Spain', Cantabria has a variety of landscapes to offer from quaint coastal towns, to the peaks of the Picos de Europa and delightful Parador hotels in charming locations.
