Santander Ferry to Llanes: How to Get Here Fast

If you’ve just arrived in Spain on the Santander ferry, you’re closer to the Asturian coast than you might think. Llanes is around 90 km from the port of Santander — and the drive takes just about 1 hour, the whole way on motorway. No winding rural roads after a long crossing, just a smooth, fast drive straight into Asturias.

Quick Facts

• Ferry operator: Brittany Ferries
• Routes to Santander: Plymouth (approx. 20 hours) and Portsmouth (approx. 26h 45m)
• Distance from Santander port to Llanes: approx. 90 km / 56 miles
• Driving time: just about 1 hour, the entire way on motorway (autovía)
• Nearest beach: Playa de Gulpiyuri, right in Naves
• Nearby natural landmark: Los Bufones de Pría, just 6 km away
• Accommodation: Casa Rural Grau, in Naves, just minutes from Llanes

From the Santander Ferry to Llanes: What to Expect

Llanes sits roughly 90 km east of Santander, and the entire route runs along the motorway (autovía) — making it an easy, fast drive of about 1 hour. It’s one of the most convenient coastal towns in Asturias to reach straight off the ferry, with no complicated roads to navigate after a long crossing.The Best Route from Santander to Llanes

The quickest and easiest option is simply following the A-8 motorway east towards Bilbao and exiting at Llanes — the whole journey is on dual carriageway, so it’s a relaxed, straightforward drive of around 1 hour. If you’d rather take it slow and enjoy the coastal views, the N-634 runs alongside the motorway through towns like San Vicente de la Barquera and Comillas, though it takes a little longer.

Casa Rural Grau – A Peaceful Base Near Llanes

Just a few minutes from Llanes, in the quiet village of Naves, Casa Rural Grau is the kind of place to recover from a ferry crossing properly: a 1,200 m² private garden, a traditional Asturian hórreo, a barbecue area, a cosy fireplace for cooler evenings, and fast fibre WiFi for those who still need to check in with work. The house sleeps up to 6 guests and has built a 4.9/5 rating across booking platforms over more than a decade of welcoming travellers — many of them, like you, arriving straight from the Santander ferry.

Nearby Beaches and Things to Do

One of the best things about staying in Naves is that Playa de Gulpiyuri — one of the most unusual beaches in Spain, a tidal inlet hidden inland — is right here in the village, just a short distance from Casa Rural Grau. A little further along the coast you’ll find San Antolín and La Huelga beaches, and inland, the dramatic peaks of the Picos de Europa. Don’t miss Los Bufones de Pría, just 6 km away — natural blowholes in the cliffs that shoot seawater into the air with the incoming tide, one of the most striking sights on this stretch of coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a ferry from the UK to near Llanes?
Yes. Brittany Ferries sails from Plymouth and Portsmouth to Santander, around 90 km from Llanes — making it one of the most convenient sea routes to Asturias from the UK.

How long does it take to drive from Santander port to Llanes?
Just about 1 hour. The entire route runs along the motorway (autovía), so it’s a quick, easy drive after the ferry crossing.

Where can I stay near Llanes after the ferry?
Casa Rural Grau, located in Naves just minutes from Llanes, offers a private garden, fireplace and fibre WiFi — an easy, relaxing first stop after the crossing.

What are Los Bufones de Pría?
Los Bufones de Pría are natural blowholes formed in the cliffs near Naves, just 6 km from Casa Rural Grau. When the tide comes in, seawater is forced through underground channels and shoots up through openings in the rock, creating dramatic jets of water and a loud roaring sound. They’re one of the most unique natural sights on the Asturian coast and well worth a short visit during your stay.

Closing:

If you’re already planning your crossing from Plymouth or Portsmouth, Casa Rural Grau is ready to welcome you just an hour from the port. Book directly with us for the best rate and a warm Asturian welcome.