Where can you sleep?
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 the area?
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 typical foods are recommended?
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.
Where are the 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.
