Cantabria, the hidden gem in the north of Spain
It offers a wide variety of activities and destinations for all types of travellers. From beautiful beaches and cliffs, impressive mountains and forests, a rich history and culture, to delicious gastronomy.
Cantabria has it all. Don't hesitate, plan your trip to enjoy all the wonders this region has to offer. Experience a mild summer away from the extreme heat. You won't want to leave.
The region has numerous hiking trails through its forests and mountains, such as the Picos de Europa Natural Park. It is one of the most impressive in Europe, with specimens of brown bear and wolves and spectacular landscapes that will take your breath away. Here you can hike on trails that will take you through impressive canyons and glaciers.
The forest of Hayedo de Ucieda, in the region of Cabuérniga and extends over 50 hectares. This forest is one of the most spectacular in the region and is considered one of the best preserved beech forests in Spain. Here you can find beech trees more than 500 years old, as well as a great variety of plants and animals. The Hacedo de Saja Forest, the most beautiful in Cantabria. It occupies an immense surface, more than a third of Cantabria. It is crowned by fifty mountains of more than 2000 meters high and it is carpeted by the most extensive and best preserved beech forest in the Cantabrian mountain range. Ambushed in this magnificent forest there are bears and wolves, although roe deer and deer are the most abundant in these mountains.
One of the interesting and amusing routes is that of the Natural Park of Cabárceno, located in a unique spot. This park was an old Roman mining exploitation and nowadays, it offers a unique safari experience where you can see wild animals in their natural habitat. In addition, the park has a wide variety of activities for the whole family, including cable car rides and a pool with water slides.
Also not to be missed are the Liencres Dunes Natural Park and the Oyambre Natural Park, famous not only for their scenic beauty, but also for their spectacular unspoiled beaches.
Another place of interest is the medieval village of Santillana del Mar. Walk through its narrow cobbled streets and admire its noble houses.
One of the most beautiful villages in Cantabria is Barcena Mayor, located in the heart of the Pasiegos Valleys. This village is known for its traditional architecture, its green landscapes and its history, which dates back to the 15th century. It is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and forests, which makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and hikers. The village is known for its stone and wooden houses. Nearby, we can find remains of a Roman road. Known as Calzada de los Blendios, it connected the towns of Pisoraca (Herrera de Pisuerga in Palencia) and Portus Blendium (Suances in Cantabria), being the main communication route between the Castilian plateau and the Cantabrian coast.
A true architectural jewel of the pre-Romanesque period in Spain is Santa María de Lebeña. This small church is nestled in a stunning natural setting, surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Picos de Europa and bathed by the crystal clear Deva River.
Visit the impressive Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, where the Lignum Crucis, the largest known fragment of the cross of Christ, is preserved. This year is a lebaniego year and you can go to win the jubilee.
The valley of Cabuérniga is characterized by its stunning natural beauty and picturesque villages. Among the most iconic are Sopelana and Mazcuerras, which are must-see places. Here we can discover numerous examples of mountain palaces and houses of indianos, which are a sample of the historical and artistic richness of the region.
Gastronomic paradise
For lunch, dinner or a snack, the best restaurants in Cantabria offer an unbeatable gastronomic proposal that navigates between tradition and modernity. With emblematic typical dishes and innovative and creative preparations that become an essential destination for lovers of good food.
Join us on this vibrant journey of unparalleled sea and mountain flavors.
We give you some recommendations by areas:
Trasmiera and western Cantabria
Eastern Cantabria
Albacería de La Sal, in Cabezón de la Sal. With traditional and simple food; giving importance to the product. They have a great selection of preserves, cheeses, wines and sausages.
Casa Segis, in Cabezón de la Sal. The terrace is full and the incorporation of new select products and unquestionable wines, have turned Segis into a restaurant that you feel like visiting. You will find different options, a more economical snack or a series of more exclusive raw materials.
La Ostrería, in San Vicente de la Barquera. Its business concept is for everyone, based on local produce and, above all, on the possibilities provided by the Cantabrian Sea.
El Remedio, in Ruiloba. It represents a tribute to the product and the land, without renouncing to the conquest of new clear and strong flavors full of nuances.
El Pájaro amarillo on the beach of Oyambre. It takes the name of the Yellow Bird as a tribute to the plane that on June 14, 1919 at 20:40 h. made a crash landing on the sand of the beach of Oyambre. The original idea was to emulate the Spirit of St. Louis, the pioneer plane to cross the Atlantic in 1927 and land with full honors in Paris, but the story was very different. They arrived at Oyambre without a drop of gasoline and a stowaway on board.
The restaurant of the Santa Marina golf club in Oyambre. Located in a special environment, in a splendid mansion and surrounded by a raging green. It has a balanced menu; homemade cuisine, product, without artifice.
Boga Boga. San Vicente de la Barquera. Seafaring village that provides the best products to offer to the client. They work with the illusion of transferring the flavors of the Cantabrian Sea to the diners.
Las Redes. San Vicente de la Barquera. They have a total commitment with the fresh product. Their fish is always wild, always at its best.
El Ancla. San Vicente de la Barquera. Taste some unique empanadas, homemade mussels or a generous seafood paella in this place. The most outstanding dish is its attractive fruit cake.
La Aldea, in Comillas. It offers adequate prices for delicious meals.
Already in Asturias, but bordering with Cantabria, we find El Bateau, in the Fishermen’s Guild of Bustio.
And if inland and mountains are your thing, Cantabria enjoys a lush nature that has nothing to envy to any other destination in the world. If you are looking for an authentic rural living experience in Cantabria, staying in the Pasiegos Valleys is always a great option. This century-old house can be the perfect choice for your vacation. You will be able to experience the history and culture of the region while enjoying its natural beauty by exploring the surroundings or simply relaxing in the garden enjoying the fresh air and the rural landscape. Silence dominates the views of the peaceful Toranzo valley and neighboring pastoral fields. The smell of oak inside this century-old house competes with the aromas of the surrounding nature.
Comillas, the beauty of modernism
Famous for its university, but also for its impressive modernist architecture. Visit the Sobrellano Palace, the Pantheon Chapel of the Marquises of Comillas or the Major Seminary of Comillas and immerse yourself in the beauty of this architecture by visiting “El Capricho”, one of the modernist landmarks of the seaside town, designed by Antonio Gaudí.
Discover the Cantabrian coast beaches
The Cantabrian coast is breathtaking, with miles and miles of fine sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Here we can find some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, with more than 60 beaches, each with its own personality and beauty.
One of the most popular beaches is Playa de la Concha in Suances, known for its crystal clear waters and lively atmosphere.
The beach of Langre in Ribamontán al Mar, offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and is ideal for surfing. In this area we recommend the very wide beaches of Trengandín and Berria, of spectacular beauty and a paradise for surf lovers.
The beaches of El Sardinero, Playa de los Quebrantes, a mecca of world surfing, and Playa del Puntal in Santander, one of the best known and most appreciated beaches in the city. In the eastern area we highlight the spectacular beach of Oyambre and those of San Vicente de la Barquera, such as Gerra.
There is a wide variety of options for all tastes.
Gastronomy
Cantabria is famous for its delicious cuisine and its great variety of traditional dishes. If you are a lover of good food, then you must try the famous squid rabas, which are served as an appetizer in many bars and restaurants in the region. You should also try traditional dishes such as cocido montañés, a stew made with white beans, pork and vegetables. Don’t leave without trying the anchovies from Santoña (bocartes), its famous baked cheesecake and quesada, of great tradition throughout Cantabria, and the sobaos pasiegos, especially the sobaos El Macho; their artisanal elaboration, texture and aroma make them unique and a delight to the palate.
Cantabrian fish is famous for its flavor and freshness; it is a delight for lovers of the flavors of the sea. If there is one fish that stands out above all others, it is the San Martín. This species is highly appreciated by local fishermen and is known for its tender and tasty meat. It can be cooked in many ways, although the most traditional way is grilled, with a little oil and salt.
In addition, the region is known for its cheese production, the Picón Bejes-Tresviso cheese, more popularly known as Queso Picón, and the cream cheese of Cantabria.
Gastronomic paradise
For lunch, dinner or a snack, the best restaurants in Cantabria offer an unbeatable gastronomic proposal that navigates between tradition and modernity. With emblematic typical dishes and innovative and creative preparations that become an essential destination for lovers of good food.
Join us on this vibrant journey of unparalleled sea and mountain flavors.
We give you some recommendations by areas:
Trasmiera and western Cantabria
The Anchoteca de Santoña is the place of reference for tasting anchovies. They are the best in the area. You can also buy there the options that you like. Doña Emilia also has a grill also famous for sardines and other snacks. Highly recommended.
Casa Navarro in Pámanes, offers a wide selection of tapas and homemade rations simple and very appetizing, prepared with the best recipes of traditional cuisine.
El Bosque in Entrambasaguas, is known for its potato dishes. During weekend dinners it is usually full, so make a reservation if you don’t want to be left without a table.
El Baruco in Anero. With very high level food, gastrobar oriented, classic but making a difference.
La Modernista, in Hoz de Anero. and its specialty is empanadas. You can enjoy delicious dishes and taste their homemade fruit pie, their amazing fried milk and their well prepared cheesecake.
Asador El Tronky is considered one of the best grilled meat and fish grills in the town of Pedreña, popular in the south of the bay of Santander. Next to the Somo’s strut.
Casa Tomás is a classic that never fails. Noted for its traditional food, it has one of the best “cocido montañés”, the typical stew here.
Eastern Cantabria
Albacería de La Sal, in Cabezón de la Sal. With traditional and simple food; giving importance to the product. They have a great selection of preserves, cheeses, wines and sausages.
Casa Segis, in Cabezón de la Sal. The terrace is full and the incorporation of new select products and unquestionable wines, have turned Segis into a restaurant that you feel like visiting. You will find different options, a more economical snack or a series of more exclusive raw materials.
La Ostrería, in San Vicente de la Barquera. Its business concept is for everyone, based on local produce and, above all, on the possibilities provided by the Cantabrian Sea.
El Remedio, in Ruiloba. It represents a tribute to the product and the land, without renouncing to the conquest of new clear and strong flavors full of nuances.
El Pájaro Amarillo on the beach of Oyambre. It takes the name of the Yellow Bird as a tribute to the plane that on June 14, 1919 at 20:40 h. made a crash landing on the sand of the beach of Oyambre. The original idea was to emulate the Spirit of St. Louis, the pioneer plane to cross the Atlantic in 1927 and land with full honors in Paris, but the story was very different. They arrived at Oyambre without a drop of gasoline and a stowaway on board.
The restaurant of the Santa Marina golf club in Oyambre. Located in a special environment, in a splendid mansion and surrounded by a raging green. It has a balanced menu; homemade cuisine, product, without artifice.
Boga Boga. San Vicente de la Barquera. Seafaring village that provides the best products to offer to the client. They work with the illusion of transferring the flavors of the Cantabrian Sea to the diners.
Las Redes. San Vicente de la Barquera. They have a total commitment with the fresh product. Their fish is always wild, always at its best.
El Ancla. San Vicente de la Barquera. Taste some unique empanadas, homemade mussels or a generous seafood paella in this place. The most outstanding dish is its attractive fruit cake.
La Aldea, in Comillas. It offers adequate prices for delicious meals.
Already in Asturias, but bordering with Cantabria, we find El Bateau, in the Fishermen’s Guild of Bustio.
Santander
In Santander we can find various options such as the famous restaurant El Bar del Puerto, a classic with the best raw material.
La Caseta de Bombas is a gastro-cultural project designed to recover spaces and give voice to small artisan producers. It is a historic building located next to the Gamazo dock and converted into a grill of organic meats from Cantabria and fish from the Santander fish market.
El Machi is the oldest seafood tavern in Santander. Ask for their Cantabrian squid rabas and enjoy them on the terrace.
La Bombi is not just another restaurant, it is one of the most emblematic places in Santander. Perhaps one of the places where you can enjoy the rich gastronomy of Cantabria as it is.
La Posada del Mar, began as a sailor tavern and over time, became one of the best restaurants in the city of Santander.
In the most lively area of Santander, we find La Tasca Bonifaz, a place with a taste of tasca mountain, of those of always.
El Cañadío, Días de Sur, La Cigaleña, Cormorán and more traditional options such as Bodega El Riojano are equally appetizing.
In the Pasiegos Valleys we can find Casa El Macho, where you can see where the famous “El Macho” sobaos were born, or the Joselín Sobao Pasiego Museum, where they transfer their passion for what they do to all areas. If you are one of those who love to “get into the flour”, they have sobaos elaboration workshops, if you love to know the why and origin of things, the museum will show you the origin and evolution of sobaos and quesadas. After the activity, your mouth is sure to water and you can stop by their cafeteria and satisfy your hunger.
Quesería La Jarradilla transforms milk into cheeses and butters in which you can perceive the essence of the ancient flavors that survive in traditional recipes. An essence that merges with the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit.
Star cuisine
If you are looking for unique culinary experiences, you can’t miss the Michelin-starred restaurants in this region of northern Spain.
Imagine yourself seated at an elegantly dressed table, surrounded by a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere, while savoring the most exquisite dishes prepared by the country’s most renowned chefs. In Cantabria, this is possible thanks to the restaurants that have been awarded the coveted Michelin stars.
El Cenador de Amós led by chef Jesús Sánchez, which has three Michelin stars and is considered one of the best restaurants in Spain.
Annua led by chef Óscar Calleja, which has two Michelin stars and offers a unique and avant-garde gastronomic experience.
El Nuevo Molino led by chef Miguel Cobo, has one Michelin star and surprises with its signature dishes made with the best ingredients of the region.
La Bicicleta in Hoznayo, run by Cris and Edu and with a Michelin star, with a cuisine committed to local produce, with orchards, with producers.
La Casona del Judío is located in an old 19th century Indian mansion in the Monte de Santander neighborhood. Directed by Sergio Bastard, it takes advantage of the local produce and the Cantabrian Sea to offer its most personal cuisine.
El Serbal, in the Puertochico district of Santander. With José Ramón Bustamante at the stove, a cook with Cantabrian and Mexican roots, he offers a cuisine attached to the sea, offering fish and seafood, but also meat from the local Tudanca breed.
Solana, a few meters from the Sanctuary of La Bien Aparecida, patron saint of Cantabria. They offer menus that sail between tradition and vanguardism, always with the necessary point of calmness to savor and enjoy.
In these restaurants, you will not only enjoy the best food, but also an impeccable service and an exclusive atmosphere that will make you feel at home. In addition, each one of them has its own personality and style, guaranteeing a unique and memorable experience. Discover the richness of its cuisine and be amazed by the talent of the best chefs in the country in a unique environment.
Where to sleep
For accommodation, we propose several options that will help you to relax and disconnect.
In the area of Trasmiera, next to the beaches of Berria, Trengandín and a step away from Langre and Somo, we recommend this family house in Escalante, a small Cantabrian village of medieval origin that captivates us with its large houses that preserve their mountain style. On the shores of the marshes of Santoña and cataloged the whole area as a Natural Park, it maintains intact its ecosystem and the proximity to the spectacular beach of Berria.
“Casa de Mareas” is a 16th century mansion that has been restored recovering all possible original materials and incorporating all the advantages of our time. A harmonious dialogue between the past and the future where design and contemporary art act as a source of inspiration.
In the area of Voto, near Liendo and Laredo, we recommend the Casona la Calleja, in San Miguel de Aras, a Cantabrian building of the sixteenth century. Located at the base of the forest, formed by chestnut trees, oaks, cherry trees, oaks, walnut trees… it even has a water spring, lush gardens and an old esplanade where people used to play bolo pasiego in the 19th century. Its careful decoration reminds us of the elegant houses of the English countryside, which will delight its occupants transporting them to the past. A journey back in time with all the modern comfort to enjoy with family, friends, to celebrate events, photo shoots or filming.
In the eastern area, near Comillas we highlight the enclave of El Tejo, in Valdáliga, in the heart of the natural park of Oyambre. We discover this dream house located in a private estate with south orientation and an infinity pool with spectacular views of the Picos de Europa and a step away from the best beaches. A hidden paradise in the Natural Park of Oyambre. Balance to the extreme to achieve that feeling of peace and tranquility in the natural environment to which it opens. The superfluous is blurred to really connect us with the essential thanks to that warm neutrality. Pure calm.
For those who are looking for more than just a vacation and want a residence to suit their lifestyle, we discover the most unique houses in this area. Authentic historical jewels that are becoming scarce in the real estate market and that represent a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire a historic property.
A palace house of 1882 that is a sample of the cultural value of the time, also known as the Palace of the Magnolias. Located in Mazcuerras, it has 20 hectares of gardens designed by its centennial nursery. It is the place of inspiration for many, such as Josefina Aldecoa herself, a writer who lived in this palace until her last days. This palace house seeks to write a new history.
Comillas, one of the most beautiful and emblematic towns in Cantabria, is located between the sea and the mountains, which makes it a privileged enclave. In the center of the town, among its historic buildings, is this magnificent mansion with coat of arms on the facade. It is wrapped in a spectacular plot of 7,325 m2, and has a large garden, from which to enjoy a peaceful tranquility and privacy, and where recreate with exceptional views of the mountains, the sea, and the fishing village. A house with a lot of history, which has probably witnessed meetings between singular characters, such as Indian patrons, decadent aristocrats and artists who gave birth to modernism in the late nineteenth century.
And if inland and mountains are your thing, Cantabria enjoys a lush nature that has nothing to envy to any other destination in the world. If you are looking for an authentic rural living experience in Cantabria, staying in the Pasiegos Valleys is always a great option. This century-old house can be the perfect choice for your vacation. You will be able to experience the history and culture of the region while enjoying its natural beauty by exploring the surroundings or simply relaxing in the garden enjoying the fresh air and the rural landscape. Silence dominates the views of the peaceful Toranzo valley and neighboring pastoral fields. The smell of oak inside this century-old house competes with the aromas of the surrounding nature.
Nature activities
From surfing, to enjoy rafting, canyoning, horseback riding, hiking, playing golf in front of the sea in its different courses. The most famous is the Real Club de Pedreña.
