The most beautiful villages in Cantabria and the surrounding area make this autonomous region one of the best holiday destinations. It’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing northern Spain to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life; are you one of them? This article presents a rundown of some of our favourite options to discover everything Cantabria has to offer. Don’t miss out!
What are the most beautiful towns in Cantabria?
First things first, rest assured that this community is brimming with places worth visiting in Cantabria. However, to make things a little easier for you, we’ve drawn up a short list of the 5 most beautiful villages in Cantabria. They’ve all got something to grab you and make for the perfect holiday. Ready to find out?
Santillana del Mar
“It’s not holy (santa), it’s not flat (llana) and it doesn’t have a sea (mar), but don’t miss it”. Known as the village of the three lies, this is a medieval gem that stands majestically between steep cliffs. Among its cobbled streets, stone houses and buildings that look like something out of a fairy tale, you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away back in time.
Some tourist sports worth mentioning are the old quarter, the famous Museum of Altamira, the collegiate church of Santa Juliana, the museum of the Inquisition or its stunning botanical garden. Without a doubt, this town invites you to immerse yourself in its mystery and feel the beating heart of history everywhere you turn.
Comillas
Known as the Town of the Archbishops, Comillas strikes the perfect balance between history, architecture and coastal landscape. Dizzying cliffs give way to stunning fine golden sand beaches. However, before you take a dip, remember that the waters of the Cantabrian Sea are rather cold.
Though small, Comillas is home to some jaw-dropping historical heritage. Gaudí’s Capricho is the stand-out, an eccentric modernist villa with its ceramic tile façade and its unmistakable tower-minaret.
Another must-visit is the neo-Gothic Sobrellano Palace. The fact that it’s on a hillside offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding landscape.
Potes
Another of Cantabria’s beautiful villages is Potes, also known as the town of bridges and towers. This already gives you an insight into what its architecture is like. Its urban centre was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1983 and is home to gems such as the Infantado Tower and the church of San Vicente Mártir.
What’s more, it enjoys an exceptional location. It lies right in the heart of the Picos de Europa, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and crossed by the Deva and Quiviesa rivers. You can see why it needed bridges!
All this comes together to create a dreamlike natural environment, perfect for outdoor activities. If you like to stay active, you’ll be pleased to know there’s no shortage of hiking, canyoning and climbing activities, to name but a few.
Liérganes
Next up on the list of beautiful Cantabrian villages is Liérganes. It’s a haven of beauty and tranquillity. 110 metres above sea level, this village is surrounded by hills and dotted with picturesque stone buildings and cobbled streets. Its traditional architecture is sure to make your jaw drop.
The local legends also contribute to this, such as the fish man – of whom a statue stands under the Roman bridge on the banks of the river Miera. Other must-visit monuments are the Elsedo Palace, the church of San Pantaleón, the Cuesta Palace or the old town. You’ll definitely be won over by this town that oozes history and mystery.
Castro Urdiales
Last but not least on the list of beautiful villages in Cantabria is Castro Urdiales. Striking the perfect balance between historical heritage, seascape and friendly vibe, it blows away everyone who’s fortunate enough to visit.
This town that holds the status of a city can be found in the easternmost part of the region, on the shores of the Bay of Biscay. However, don’t think that this takes away from its charm, as it has no shortage of attractions. These include the medieval tower of the Templars, the castle of Santa Ana, the mansion of the Ocharan family, the Casa Sotileza and the church of Santa María de la Asunción, to name but a few.
Lastly, we couldn’t finish up without mentioning the local gastronomy. It’s characterised mainly by the freshness of its products, taken directly from the sea.
Visit the most beautiful towns in Cantabria
If you enjoyed reading about these villages in Cantabria, just think what it’ll be like to actually visit them. What are you waiting for to set off on this adventure through the north of Spain? Make note of the towns in Cantabria you most like the sound of from our list and start planning your trip! Remember, with Fidalsa, finding somewhere to stay will be hassle-free.
Accommodation in Cantabria
Find the perfect accommodation in Cantabria: cosy rural houses. All set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
