"Moving to Cantabria: How a Romanian Family Built a New Life in Northern Spain"
At Move to Cantabria, we love hearing the personal stories of families who have made this beautiful region their home. Today, we’re sharing the journey of a Romanian family who swapped city life for long walks, nature, and a slower pace — and found their own little piece of heaven here in the north of Spain.
Escaping the City for a Life Closer to Nature
Like many families, this couple and their two children had been feeling the pressures of city life in Romania: constant traffic, stress, and an endless cycle of colds in the winter months. They longed for something different — a simpler life where they could breathe, explore nature, and enjoy time as a family.
They didn’t know exactly where they wanted to go, but they were drawn to northern Spain. As it turned out, a chance discovery on Airbnb changed everything. "We found a beautiful apartment with a garden in Cantabria," they told us. "When we got here, we fell in love with it. We found our little piece of heaven."
Moving with an Open Heart — and an Open Mind
Before moving, the family knew very little about Cantabria. "Kind of nothing!" they admitted with a smile. But they embraced the uncertainty. "Sometimes, when all goes wrong and you don’t have too much to lose, you just take chances and go with the flow."
With two young children in tow, they arrived in Cantabria ready to build a new life. They didn’t speak Spanish fluently at first, but they learned in time. Their biggest challenge? Finding remote work that would allow them to balance earning a living with caring for their children.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
No matter how well you prepare, life has a way of surprising you. "When we moved here, we had Plan A, B, and C," they shared. "But life tore those apart and gave us Plan Q! It wasn’t easy, and it still isn’t — but over time, we hope we’ll make it."
Among the most unexpected and heartwarming parts of their move was the kindness of the local people. "I didn’t feel too much like an outsider — I felt accepted," they told us. They also discovered a welcoming community through their children’s Waldorf school, which aligned beautifully with their own values.
A Move Made Easier with Support
One key to their successful relocation? Getting the right support before they arrived. They worked with a relocation consultant who helped them secure legal documentation, residency, housing, and appointments. "That made everything much less stressful," they said.
When we asked what advice they would give to others considering a move to Cantabria, their answer was clear: "Use the knowledge of the Move to Cantabria team to your advantage — they can do wonders."
Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
Today, the family cherishes the simple joys of life in Cantabria. They appreciate the space to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with themselves, each other, and the activities that matter most. One special highlight? Learning to ride horses — a lifelong dream finally made possible here.
Their story is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best moves are the ones we take with an open heart, a little courage, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.
If you’re dreaming of a new life in Cantabria and wondering how to start, we’d love to help. Get in touch with the Move to Cantabria team — we’re here to make your journey smoother, too. 🌿
