Hostal Esmeralda

This cosy family-run guest house is set in the rural fishing village of Comilla. Set in a 19th century building, it offers a terrace and rooms with a private bathroom, 7 minutes’ walk from the beach.

Hostal Esmeralda’s elegant, heated rooms feature traditional decor and soft lighting. Each includes a TV, telephone and desk.

The property’s restaurant has a cosy fireplace in winter and serves traditional Spanish cuisine. You can also enjoy a drink from the bar and packed lunches can be provided for days out.

The Esmeralda is just 400 metres from Antoní Gaudí’s El Capricho building. The Sobrellano Palace is 10 minutes’ walk away and you can go hiking or cycling in the nearby Oyambre Nature Reserve.

The property is 20 minutes’ drive of historic Santillana del Mar and 45 minutes’ drive from Santander.Solo travellers particularly like the location — they rated it 9.2 for a one-person stay.