On the Green Spain coasts, you can find San Vicente de la Barquera. This town of Cantabria is a place with a great sea tradition. If you go there to do rural tourism, you will feel more connected to the sea than ever.
The port is a location of great importance for the inhabitants of the area, as well as the Punta Silla Lighthouse, which currently houses the Interpretation Center of the Oyambre Natural Park. This place is a protected natural space since 1988, which is characterized by being one of the richest in Spain in terms of scenery. It has a coastline, mountains and valleys.
What things can you do in the park? With all that amount of territory, the idea is to grab some good boots and do some hiking. It's a passing area for the Camino de Santiago and allows the arrival to the town through the old Puerta del Peregrino. This is just one of the valuable monuments that you will find in its streets.
What else can you see? Following Alta Street is the Town Hall, formerly known as the Palacio de la Familia Corro. It was owned by a powerful inquisitor whose tomb is located in the church of Santa María de Los Ángeles, and his funerary statue is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. Other examples of religious architecture are the convent of San Luis and the chapel of the Virgen de la Barquera. Patron saint of the town.
You will find many symbols of medieval times in the town, reflected in the remains of its wall. The Provost Tower still stands on it, next to one of its main doors. And, if you are still curious about the history of San Vicente, you can visit a permanent exhibition with some documents and pieces that relate to what the lifestyle of the town was like in the King's Castle.
If you prefer to make more dynamic plans, don't hesitate to cross the Maza bridge that connects with Gerra beach. Not only can you sunbathe there, but you can also enjoy the waves, as it is one of the most popular for surfing.
And as it will surely whet your appetite, we encourage you to try some of the local cuisines. Sorropotún is one of the most requested dishes. It's a stew of tuna, potatoes and onion that is to die for. And, if you have room for dessert, don't forget to order some pejinas, delicious puff pastry filled with "angel hair."
The patron saint festivities of January 22 in honour of San Vicente Mártir usually attract many tourists. The last several days in which cattle fairs are held. Something similar also happens every Sunday after Easter, when the town's boats go out to sea to celebrate a pilgrimage, known as the Folía. Don't miss the opportunity to stay in one of the town's hotels during these days when the atmosphere is so happy and festive.
Holidays in the north have never sounded so appealing, have they?
Sign up to spend a few days in San Vicente de la Barquera and you will see that everything we have told you has been only a small part of everything you can discover.
