Welcome to Cantabria
This spectacular region, located in the North of Spain, offers you the possibility of spending a dreamlike stay in here. Starting with the richness of its nature, the natural reserve of Collados del Asón and its mudflats, the mountains of Cabuérniga or the valleys of Nansa and Saja are some of its most important natural spots.
Another popular destination for those who decide to venture doing rural tourism in Cantabria are the Picos de Europa which are also part of the territory of Cantabria. This, together with its beaches, make of this a unique and obligatory visit if you decide to stay here.
A coast destination of spectacular beauty that combines rural sights with historical and cultural tourism, is that of Santander, the capital of this region where most visitors come to see the beautiful palace of La Magdalena or the city's cathedral. Find out all options to stay in this amazing setting.
Explore the region
If you're making your next stay in Cantabria, do not forget to explore each of its many corners full of magic, and that can show you its history, apart from its excellent views. It's part of the Green Spain natural region, as it is one of the biggest natural areas of the country, due ti its great number of fields, meadows and natural reserves in the region, so much so, that it is actually divided in three different areas: La Marina (sea), La Montaña (mountains), and El Campo (the countryside).
Amongst its many places of tourist interest, there's the Cabo de Ajo, which apart from its impressive views is surrounded by beaches that are perfect for surf lovers, a practice more and more common in this area.
If you come to Cantabria, yours will be a stay full of tourist, cultural and natural attractions, along with its beaches, which will make for a great combination for you to enjoy of the perfect holidays.
About the region of Cantabria
Either if you're looking for some quiet holidays, or if you're more interested in history or sports, you have come to the right place.
You will be surrounded by more than fifty of the most impressive fine, white sand beaches where you will be able to lie down and relax of your well-deserved holidays.
Besides, Cantabria is home to the Cuevas de Altamira prehistoric findings, one of the most important archeological findings in Spain, testimony of how prehistoric communities that inhabited the country lived centuries ago.
Amongst its cultural and historical patrimony you will also find in Cantabria views that have been the subject of many different authors and artistic movements, that make of it a postcard-like landscape.
Finally, you will find its unique gastronomy is full of products famous and loved internationally, such as the Santoña anchovies, one of the most renown local products of this area.
Book your ideal rural house in Cantabria
Where to sleep in Cantabria
There are many options in Cantabria that will allow you to enjoy of the views and of its true natural paradise. We must tell you that it's a quite damp place, so you should pack some warm clothes, your scarf and a pair of gloves if you're staying during winter. And it will be even better if you rent a house with a fireplace.
You can find some of the most charming towns, very popular amongst tourists, such as the village of Santillana del Mar, known as the "town of three lies". It is a very charing village, with tourism as its main economic activity.
Another popular destination in Cantabria is San Vicente de la Barquera, a small fishing village with the most spectacular views of the sea, with its great views of the castle coming close second to it. But if you would prefer to ditch the car and truly want to stay in a magical place, still stuck in the old times, Bárcena Mayor is your option, as its stone-paved streets makes it impossible for cars to move around.
What to do in Cantabria
There is no denying Cantabria is one of Spain's most beautiful regions. But there's much more than just green landscapes here.
You will find here unique, historical and artistic examples of national relevance in this area, such as the famous prehistoric site of the Cuevas de Altamira, a visit you mustn't miss during your stay.
Known as the Sistine Chapel of cave paintings and part and UNESCO protected world heritage, it is a true historical legend. But your journey underground doesn't finish here, since there are many other caves to be explored in the area.
The Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander, the old Convento de San Luis in San Vicente de la Barquera, or Gaudí's El Capricho modernist building in Comillas are some of the most important monuments of historical and cultural relevance you will find in this area.
We also recommend the road of Besaya, dating from ancient Roman times and a exceptional walk with equally exceptional views, surrounded by nature. Be ready for an adventure!
What to eat
Considering its location, it should not come as a surprise that Cantabria has also some of the best fish and seafood coming from the fresh waters of Santander's bay.
You will find its seafood, specially cockles, crabs, barnacles and langoustines amongst others, is an essential part of most cuisine that is typical of this region. Don't forget to try also the Santoña anchovies, one of the most popular local foods in here.
But it's not all about fish here, since local meat here is of the highest quality too, specially veal, so much so that a livestock fair, the Feria Nacional de Ganados, is held every year in Torrelavega.
Amongst the regional dishes that we recommend is the cocido montañés (traditional stew from Cantabria) and for dessert, quesadas and sobaos pasiegos are our sweets of choice.
Our festivities
The province of Cantabria is home to many festivities that you will be able to enjoy any time of the year. Either religious or secular, each of them has something that makes it special, and that will ensure you have a great time here.
Some of them are considered of National Tourist Interest, such as the carnival of La Vijanera, celebrated every year the first Sunday of January in the town of Silió.
Another carnival you should write down is the Carnaval Marinero de Santoña, a sea-fashioned, colourful, carnival celebrated in the town of Santoña on February 24.
Other festivities you should take note of are the Batalla de las Flores in Laredo at the end of August, that has been commemorated since 1908, or the Fiesta del Orujo held in November in the town of Potes.
This is one of the most entertaining festivities celebrated in the region,where music, dancing and storytelling come together for their inhabitants to enjoy of this very special day.
