Cantabria Travel Guide

Nestled in the northern region of Spain, Cantabria is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. With its rugged coastline, stunning mountains, and picturesque villages, Cantabria is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. In this travel guide, we will share the best things to see and do in Cantabria, and give you tips on how to make the most of your trip.

Getting There and Around

Cantabria is well-connected to other parts of Spain and Europe. The main airport is Santander Airport, which has regular flights from major cities in Spain and some European countries. If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the Renfe train from Madrid, Barcelona, or Bilbao to Santander or other cities in Cantabria.

Once you arrive, the best way to get around Cantabria is by car. The region has a well-developed road network that connects its major cities and attractions. You can also take the public bus, but it may not be as convenient as driving, especially if you want to explore the countryside.

Santander

The capital city of Cantabria is a charming port town with a beautiful waterfront, sandy beaches, and elegant architecture. Highlights include the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal palace that is now a university, and the Centro Botín, a contemporary art center that offers stunning views of the bay.

Best Places to Visit in Cantabria

Picos de Europa

This majestic mountain range offers some of the best hiking and mountaineering opportunities in Spain. You can explore its rugged trails, climb its peaks, and marvel at its glacial lakes and stunning vistas.

Altamira Cave

Altamira Cave: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the best-preserved prehistoric cave paintings in the world. The paintings, which date back to the Paleolithic era, depict animals and human figures in vivid colors and intricate detail.

The Most Beautiful Towns in Cantabria

Cantabria is home to some of the most picturesque and charming villages in Spain.

These are some of the prettiest towns and villages in Asturias:

• Comillas: This coastal town is known for its stunning architecture, including the Gaudí-inspired Capricho de Gaudí building and the Sobrellano Palace, a Gothic revival masterpiece. The town also has a beautiful beach and a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months.

• San Vicente de La Baquera: s a charming coastal town located in the western part of Cantabria, Spain. Its stunning location, nestled between the sea and the mountains, makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially surfers and hikers. The town is known for its bustling port and excellent seafood restaurants. The town also has a lively atmosphere during the summer months, with plenty of cultural events, festivals, and concerts.

• Potes: This town is located in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park and is a popular destination for hikers, mountaineers, and nature lovers. The town itself is also worth a visit, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, lively town square, and excellent local cuisine.

• Santillana del Mar: This medieval town is one of the most visited places in Cantabria, and for good reason. Its narrow cobblestone streets, well-preserved houses, and Romanesque churches create a timeless atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The town is also home to the Altamira Museum, which displays replicas of the famous prehistoric cave paintings.

• Bárcena Mayor: This small village is located in the heart of the Saja-Besaya Natural Park and is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional Cantabrian village. Its stone houses, wooden balconies, and narrow streets create a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing stroll.

• Liérganes: This charming village is located in the Miera Valley and is known for its beautiful stone houses, lively town center, and relaxing thermal baths. Highlights include the Palace of Elsedo, the church of San Pedro Ad Vincula, and the Roman bridge.

• Castro Urdiales: This coastal town is located on the border between Cantabria and the Basque Country and is known for its beautiful beaches, medieval castle, and Gothic church of Santa María. The town also has a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Best beaches in Cantabria

Cantabria offers a wide variety of beaches that cater to different interests and preferences, from surfing to sunbathing to exploring the natural beauty of the coastline. These are some of the most beautiful beaches in Cantabria:

Playa El Sardinero (Santander)

This beach is located in Santander and is one of the most famous and popular beaches in Cantabria. With its golden sand, clear waters, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun.

Playa de El Puntal

Another beach located in the Bay of Santander is Playa El Puntal, a very popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding due to its strong winds. It also has a laid-back atmosphere and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Playa de Ollambre

Located near San Vicente de la Barquera, this beach is a true hidden gem. Surrounded by stunning mountains and dunes, it offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Playa de Langre

This beach is located near Somo and is a favorite among surfers due to its excellent waves. It also has a more secluded feel, with its rocky cliffs and turquoise waters.

Playa de Valdearenas

This beach is located in Liencres and is known for its natural beauty and stunning scenery. With its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s a great spot for a day trip.

Playa de Comillas

This beach is located in the charming town of Comillas and is known for its golden sand and clear waters. It’s a great place to swim and sunbathe while enjoying the stunning views of the town’s architecture

Traditional food in Cantabria

is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary tradition that is influenced by its coastal and mountainous geography. Overall, Cantabria’s cuisine is known for its simplicity, high-quality ingredients, and rich flavors, which reflect the region’s cultural and culinary heritage.

Some of the must-try dishes are: Cocido Montañés, a hearty stew made with beans, cabbage, potatoes, and pork, this dish is a staple of the Cantabrian diet and perfect for cold winter days; Anchoas de Santoña, this is a specialty in the town of Santoña and refers to salt-cured anchovies that are handcrafted and processed using traditional methods. They have a distinct and intense flavor and are often served as a tapa or as part of a seafood platter.

Other dishes that we can taste are Marmita, a fish stew made with a variety of seafood, including cod, clams, and mussels, as well as vegetables such as onions, potatoes, and peppers. It’s a popular dish in coastal towns and villages in Cantabria. Rabas, these deep-fried calamari rings are a popular snack in Cantabria, served with aioli or lemon juice;

For sweet lovers try the Quesada Pasiega is a must! This creamy dessert is made with fresh cheese, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon, and is a local specialty in the Pasiegos Valleys. and Last but not least, Sobao Pasiego, this is a type of sponge cake made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, traditionally baked in wood-fired ovens. It has a soft and slightly sweet flavor and is often served as a dessert or a snack.

Are you looking for a villa rental in Cantabria?

In Home Sweet Home Villas we have several villa rentals in Cantabria so you can live a unique and exclusive experience in this natural paradise.