Introduction to Cantabria

Cantabria is an autonomous community located in the north of Spain, bathed by the Cantabrian Sea to the north and west. This enchanting region is known for its stunning natural beauty, lush green landscapes, majestic mountains and picturesque beaches. Cantabria is rich in cultural traditions, with a strong emphasis on music, dance and folklore. Cantabria's architecture is equally impressive, with many historic churches and monasteries.

Socio-economic context

The quality of life in Cantabria is generally high, with a stunning natural environment, access to health and education services, and a low crime rate. As in many other regions, Cantabria faces social challenges, including an ageing population, youth unemployment and the need to promote social inclusion.

Agriculture and livestock farming are the main activities in rural areas, with dairy products, meat and vegetables being the most representative. Fishing also plays an important role in the Cantabrian economy, as does tourism, thanks to its cultural, natural and gastronomic offerings. The region also has a strong industrial tradition in sectors such as metallurgy and automobiles.

Accommodation

Cantabria offers a wide variety of lodging and accommodation options to suit visitors' needs and budgets. From luxurious seafront hotels to budget accommodation and charming rural inns, you'll find a variety of options for your stay in the region.

How to get there

Getting to Cantabria is relatively easy thanks to its good transport infrastructure. You can travel from:

• Plane: Santander Airport is the main gateway to Cantabria. It receives domestic flights from Spanish cities and seasonal international flights.

Main Attractions

Picos de Europa National Park

The Picos de Europa National Park is one of Spain's most beautiful and iconic national parks. This park is known for its spectacular mountain scenery, which includes rugged peaks, deep valleys, winding rivers and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. It is a paradise for lovers of trekking and mountaineering, with numerous trails and hiking routes. You can also practise climbing, mountain biking, caving and skiing (in winter).

Cabárceno Natural Park

Cabárceno Natural Park is a unique attraction, famous for housing a wide variety of animals from all over the world in an environment that simulates their natural habitats. The park covers an area of approximately 750 hectares and is made up of forests, pastures and rock formations. Cabárceno is home to a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles and aquatic animals, totalling more than 120 species.

Beaches

Cantabria is blessed with a number of spectacular beaches. Here are a few examples:

Located in the capital of Cantabria, Santander, El Sardinero Beach is one of the region's most famous urban beaches. It's a wide beach with a seafront lined with bars, restaurants and entertainment areas.

Surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, Langre Beach is a great spot for surfers and nature lovers. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a popular choice for those looking to escape the busier beaches.

Berria Beach is famous for its sand dunes and wide stretch of beach. It is ideal for sunbathing, walking along the coast and practising water sports such as surfing and windsurfing.

Altamira Caves

The Altamira Caves, located in the town of Santillana del Mar, are one of Spain's most important archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Altamira Caves are famous for their remarkable prehistoric cave paintings, which are some of the oldest and best preserved in the world. At the Altamira Caves Museum you can witness the artistic skill and culture of the first modern humans in Europe.

Soplao Cave

El Soplao Cave is a stunning cave, famous for its unique and spectacular geological formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its rich concentrations of minerals. Visitors can explore parts of the cave on guided tours, where they can learn about the fascinating geology, history and limestone formations.

Palaeolithic caves of El Castillo and Las Monedas

The Palaeolithic caves of El Castillo and Las Monedas are remarkable archaeological sites. Both caves are known for their prehistoric cave paintings and archaeological remains, such as stone tools and animal bones, which provide information about the life and culture of the region's prehistoric inhabitants. Visiting them is like travelling back in time through human evolution and culture.

Historic Cities

Santander

The capital of Cantabria, Santander is a seaside city that combines history and modernity. The Magdalena Palace, a majestic building on the seafront, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Also noteworthy are the Botín Centre, a space dedicated to contemporary art, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, which houses the tomb of the writer Menéndez Pelayo.

Visitors can stroll around the historic centre, with its picturesque squares and historic buildings, or relax on the urban beaches, such as Playa del Sardinero, Playa de Mataleñas or Playa de la Magdalena. Santander is also known for its rich gastronomic scene and the Mercado de la Esperanza, where you can savour local delicacies.

Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar, considered one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, is a charming medieval town that has retained its charm and historic atmosphere. Its picturesque streets, stone houses and old churches give visitors the feeling of travelling back in time. The National Museum and the Church of Santa Juliana, an example of Romanesque art, are unmissable attractions in this town. It's also a convenient starting point for visiting the famous Altamira Cave, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Potes

Located in the Picos de Europa, Potes, the capital of the Liébana region, is a town surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. It is a popular destination for trekking and nature lovers, with trails leading to spectacular viewpoints. In addition, the town's historic centre is characterised by well-preserved medieval architecture. Potes is also known for its traditional cuisine, with dishes such as cocido lebaniego, a tasty chickpea soup with meat, standing out.

Comillas

Comillas is an architectural jewel in the Cantabria region, located on the west coast of Spain. This stunning city is an unmissable destination for lovers of architecture and history. Its most notable attraction is the Capricho de Gaudí, a modernist-style building designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí.

Castro Urdiales

Located on the border between Cantabria and the Basque Country, Castro Urdiales is a picturesque coastal town that combines natural beauty with a rich historical heritage. The harbour of Castro Urdiales is the heart of the town, with its calm waters and local fishing activity. The Church of Santa María, with its imposing Gothic architecture, is also an unmissable attraction. And take the opportunity to relax on the tranquil Brazomar Beach.

Gastronomy

Cantabrian gastronomy is a real feast for the senses. The dishes are characterised by the use of fresh local ingredients such as fish, meat, cheese and vegetables. Some notable dishes and sweets include:

• Anchovies from  Cantabria:  These  anchovies  are  usually  served pickled in olive oil and are a delight for seafood lovers.

• Cocido Lebaniego: This is a traditional chickpea and meat stew, often served with chorizo and black pudding, perfect after a day of hiking.

• Quesada Pasiega: A traditional dessert, quesada pasiega is a creamy cheese cake from the Pas region.

• Cantabrian cider: Cider is a refreshing, fermented alcoholic drink made from apple juice. Many cider houses offer tours and tastings.

Cultural Events

Santander International Music Festival

This classical music festival, held in Santander, is one of Cantabria's most prestigious cultural events. It features classical music concerts performed by renowned international musicians in historic venues such as the Magdalena Palace and the Royal Theatre.

Santander's Big Week

This is one of the biggest summer events in Santander, held in August. It features a variety of activities, including concerts, parades, fireworks and sports competitions.

International Festival of the Lebanese Jubilee Year

It is an event of great religious and cultural importance that takes place in Liébana. During the festival, there are masses, processions and other religious ceremonies that attract pilgrims from all over the world.

Santander International Folklore Festival

This festival highlights the region's rich folkloric heritage, with dance and folk music groups from all over the world performing in Santander.

Travel Tips

Choose the right season

Cantabria can get busier during the summer, when temperatures are more attractive. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in spring or autumn. Plan your trip in good time and book accommodation and transport in advance during the high season.

Although many inhabitants of Cantabria speak English in tourist areas, learning a few phrases in Spanish can be useful and appreciated by the locals.

Respect the local culture

Cantabria has a rich culture and traditions. When visiting churches, monuments and historical sites, remember to behave respectfully and follow the local rules.

Exclusive experiences in the region

Visit pilgrimage sites in Cantabria

Explore a day of spirituality and natural beauty in Cantabria on a pilgrimage journey through the majestic mountains of Liébana and Saja Nansa, culminating in the discovery of the Monastery of Santo Toribio. Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Hermida Gorge, a truly spectacular landscape, and join the mass at the Monastery of Santo Toribio for a unique spiritual activity. This is an unforgettable spiritual and cultural experience, surrounded by the natural and historical wonders of Cantabria.

Take a look at the most visited religious sites in northern Spain.

Guided Canoe Tour

Enjoy a thrilling adventure in the Alto Asón region, while having fun on an exciting canoeing trip down the River Asón, passing through Udalla. Explore the splendour of the Collados del Asón Natural Park, a protected area in Cantabria full of natural wonders. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the viewpoint, in the midst of lush nature.

Cantabria is a destination that enchants everyone who visits it, be it for its natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage or its delicious gastronomy. If you're looking for an authentic experience in Spain, Cantabria is the perfect place to explore. From the coast to the mountains, this region offers a unique adventure that will remain etched in any traveller's memory.

Enjoy this unforgettable adventure in Cantabria with a travel guide that will show you all the best this region has to offer!

If you want to have other experiences when you visit Cantabria, explore the tours and activities selected for you.