In the northern part of Santander you will find the beaches of Sardinero, spreading from the Peninsula of Magdalena to Mataleņas. The Sardinero beach is divided in two parts separated by the gardens of Piquio. The first beach spreads along 330 metres while the second occupies 1000 metres. "El Sardinero" has become a popular zone of the city, traditionally known as one of the most elegant beach resorts of the Spanish coast. This neighbourhood was developed during the 19th century as a new tourist centre of the city.