Are you looking for plans and what to do in Cantabria?
Thinking about plans in Cantabria? The truth is that Cantabria offers a plethora of activities and sights to explore, whether you’re blessed with sunny skies or faced with gloomy weather.
Main tourist attractions in Cantabria
Allow us to present some of the most significant tourist attractions in Cantabria. Please note that tickets are required for all of them.
Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno
The Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno is a captivating destination nestled in the heart of Cantabria, around 16 km from Santander.
Boasting a sprawling landscape, this nature park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
The park’s expansive grounds are home to a diverse array of animals, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to observe them in semi-natural enclosures that mimic their native habitats. From majestic elephants to playful primates, the park offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Why is Cabárceno important for Cantabria?
Beyond its rich wildlife offerings, Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno also provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both natural beauty and animal encounters.
This is a must when thinking about plans in Cantabria
- More info: https://parquedecabarceno.com/
- Tickets (Aproximadamente 38 EUR with cable trip): https://entradas.parquedecabarceno.com/
- Google Maps link
El Soplao Cave
El Soplao Cave, 60 km from Santander, is like Mother Nature’s secret art gallery underground.
Picture this: crazy-shaped rocks, hanging things, and all sorts of cool formations that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden world. It’s not your typical cave – this one’s got helictites doing their own funky dance, growing all over the place.
The guides take you on a laid-back tour, spilling the beans on the cave’s history and the cool critters living down there. It’s like a chill adventure where you get to see nature showing off its artsy side, and El Soplao makes sure you leave feeling like you’ve uncovered something seriously awesome.
- More info and tickets: https://www.elsoplao.es/en
- Google Maps link
Altamira Cave Replica
30 km away from Santander, the replica of Altamira Cave stands as a fascinating testament to prehistoric art and human creativity.
This recreation faithfully mirrors the awe-inspiring original Altamira Cave, famous for its exquisite Paleolithic rock art.
The replica offers visitors a chance to step back in time and witness the intricate details of ancient paintings, including vivid depictions of animals and symbolic motifs.
The cave’s artistry is brought to life, allowing modern explorers to experience the same sense of wonder and admiration felt by those who first discovered these remarkable creations.
Why is Altamira Cave important for Cantabria?
The replica not only preserves the delicate original cave but also ensures that the marvels of Altamira’s ancient art can be appreciated by generations to come, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
- More info and tickets: https://www.cultura.gob.es/mnaltamira/home.html
- Google Maps link
Fuente Dé Cable Car
Ready for a mountain-high adventure? 120km west Santander, the Teleférico de Fuente Dé in the Picos de Europa National Park is where it’s at.
Picture this: you hop on this nifty cable car, and in a hot minute, you’re soaring 753 meters up, surrounded by the majestic peaks. The ride itself is a thrill – all panoramic views and crisp mountain air. It’s like a magical ascent into the heart of the Picos de Europa, offering views that will leave you speechless. The whole experience is pretty laid-back; you just kick back, enjoy the ride, and soak in the awe-inspiring scenery.
Plus, it’s the perfect starting point for your hiking routes.
- More info and tickets: https://telefericodefuentede.com/
- Google Maps link
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Why you should visit this museum?
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just fascinated by the sea, the Museo Marítimo Cantábrico offers a deep dive into Cantabria’s maritime heritage. It’s not just a museum; it’s a voyage through time and tides, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a maritime adventure on solid ground.
A great museum to consider when thinking about your plans in Cantabria during a rainy day.
- More info and tickets: https://www.museosdecantabria.es/museo-maritimo/visitar/horarios-tarifas-servicios
- Google maps link
Outdoor plans and activities in Cantabria
Let us help you enjoy your time to the fullest with some suggestions on what to do in Cantabria. We’ve discussed charming towns, breathtaking landscapes, and coastal or mountain experiences, but let us ensure you get an adrenaline rush by fully enjoying the unique nature that Cantabria has to offer.
With plenty of plans in Cantabria available, it all depends on your preferences, the time of year, and your physical condition. We’re here to assist you not only with the well-known choices like surfing, hiking, skiing, or diving but also with other exciting activities such as canoeing or horse riding.
Below, you'll find a list with specific information with sport activities and plans in Cantabria. Please be aware that we have dedicated pages for Surf, Hiking, and Diving!
Cantabria stands out as one of the prime European destinations for surf, catering to everyone from beginners to pros, with the perfect wave waiting for each enthusiast.
Visit the “Surf in Cantabria” page for more details.
Being a part of Picos de Europa National Park, which is one of the most complete and diverse mountain systems in Spain, doesn’t limit your options for enjoying nature.
Whether you’re embarking on an unforgettable walk in front of the impressive Ason Waterfall or exploring a coastal trail in Costa Quebrada, there are plenty of alternatives.
Allow us to provide you with some suggestions before you lace up your trekking boots!
Check our dedicated Hiking Page.
The Cantabrian Sea is a dynamic body of water that harbors a new world teeming with life beneath its surface.
In Cantabria, you have numerous options to revel in its beauty, ranging from snorkeling to PADI diving courses.
Explore more on our dedicated diving page for additional details and options.
Despite the commonly held image of Spain as a sunny and warm destination, the reality is that you can engage in various winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding. Cantabria is no exception, as it boasts the Alto Campoo ski station in the southern part of the region, just over an hour’s drive from Santander.
With 28 km of slopes located in the town of Brañavieja, you have all the ingredients for a delightful day in the snow.
The official website is available in English, providing essential information such as tariffs and weather forecasts.
We have numerous rivers, and in some of them, you can rent a kayak and paddle for several kilometers. Don’t forget to apply some sunscreen if you want to avoid any problems!
The Deva River stands out as one of the most popular options, but there are alternatives like the Ason River or Santander Bay, conveniently located in the middle of the city.
For those seeking an extra dose of adrenaline, there are also options available for rafting!
The rugged and occasionally muddy terrain of Cantabria, combined with a longstanding biking tradition, makes the region an ideal destination for a biking route.
Whether you’re navigating the mountainous paths of Picos de Europa or riding along the coastal trail from Liencres to Santander, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
For enthusiasts of exhilarating via ferrata trails, there are several options in the western part of Cantabria, near the Picos de Europa.
Explore towns like La Hermida or Espinama for thrilling experiences. If you’re closer to Santander, you’ll find some options near Ramales de la Victoria.
We say that Cantabria is like a gruyere cheese due tot he amount of caves and the possibilities for speleologist, event we do have one of the deepest sinkhole globally (Torca del Porron, 436 meters in Ruega)!
You can find more related info in this website (Spanish).
Cantabria boasts a rich tradition in motorsports, having produced internationally successful rally drivers. If weather conditions permit, you can showcase your driving skills behind the wheel.
We recommend trying out a couple of venues: Karting la Roca, located near Torrelavega, and Karting los Molinos in the town of Noja.
While in the vicinity of Laredo, you have the opportunity to enjoy horseback riding in a breathtaking beach landscape, guided by an instructor.
In Pedreña, you have the opportunity to rent a jet ski, even without a license or prior experience. You can explore the Bay of Santander in a group led by a qualified instructor.
Additionally, in the same town, there is an option to rent a boat.
If you have a penchant for airborne adventures, consider indulging in paragliding to savor the breathtaking views of Eastern Cantabria. Castro Urdiales is the ideal location to explore this exhilarating activity.