“Finding Balance in the North: A Family’s Journey from Andalucía to Cantabria”
When a family already accustomed to life in the Spanish mountains decides to uproot once again, there’s always a deeper story behind it — a search for balance, new opportunities, and a place that feels like home. This week, in our Move to Cantabria Community Stories series, we’re sharing the beautiful journey of Bar Riese and her family who traded the sun-baked slopes of the Sierra Nevada for the green valleys of the north.
From the Alpujarra to the Atlantic
Before arriving in Cantabria, this family had already lived a life full of movement — six years in the Alpujarra, and before that, Tanzania. Their home in the south was idyllic: a farm tucked into the woods, perched above a river, surrounded by mountains. But as their eldest grew older, they began to crave a new kind of balance — one that blended nature and community.
“Cantabria had it all — live in nature, stay close to the city, wonderful schools, and incredible travel opportunities at your doorstep.”
And so the decision was made.
Discovering the Region — for Real
Although they’d travelled through northern Spain before, it wasn’t until they settled here that the magic of Cantabria revealed itself fully.
What surprised them most?
The nature escapes you can reach in minutes
A truly international community (especially at their local Waldorf school)
Weather that was much better than expected
A sense of belonging they didn’t anticipate
“Community is everything,” they shared — and in Cantabria, they found one that felt like home.
Family Life in the North
Their son Kai (9) moved to Spain at 2½, while their daughter Alma (2) was born in Granada. They speak conversational Spanish and continue learning every day — something they find helps enormously in integration and making local friendships.
The Biggest Challenge? The Pace.
Spain moves differently — and northern Spain differently again.
“Getting adjusted to the pace of things… how long it takes a business to get back to you — if they get back to you at all!”
But this challenge eventually became one of their greatest learnings.
“Once you align with the local rhythm, it stops being a discomfort and becomes something to enjoy.”
What They Wish Had Been Easier
House-hunting from Andalucía proved nearly impossible. With high demand and landlords expecting same-day viewings, they struggled to secure a rental from afar.
“A trustworthy representative to visit homes, show us via video, and help sign remotely would have given us so much peace of mind.”
They also would have loved guidance on local school options — understanding philosophies, communities, and how each school fits different families.
Advice for Anyone Moving Here
Their message is simple:
“Use services like this one!”
Having used a relocation service in Andalucía years ago, they know firsthand how much time, stress, and bureaucracy it saves.
What They Love Most
The endless shades of green
Pristine beaches
A vibrant, elegant Santander
And the unbelievable fact that you’re never more than 30 minutes from mountains, sea, or city life
For this family, Cantabria offered exactly what they had been searching for — balance, beauty, community, and the space to grow.
