San Vicente de la Barquera
San Vicente de la Barquera, starting point to discover the region
Due to its excellent location among some of the most beautiful landscapes in Cantabria, San Vicente de la Barquera has become one of the main tourist centres in the Saja-Nansa Region. In just minutes, you can access an extensive range of natural and cultural resources that is difficult to match in the north of the Iberian Peninsula.
This condition makes it an ideal place to organize routes, excursions or day trips without having to travel long distances. The range of possibilities is aimed at both quiet travellers and those looking for more active options.
Due to its excellent location among some of the most beautiful landscapes in Cantabria, San Vicente de la Barquera has become one of the main tourist centres in the Saja-Nansa Region. In just minutes, you can access an extensive range of natural and cultural resources that is difficult to match in the north of the Iberian Peninsula.
This condition makes it an ideal place to organize routes, excursions or day trips without having to travel long distances. The range of possibilities is aimed at both quiet travellers and those looking for more active options.
Oyambre Nature Park
Oyambre Nature Park is one of the great treasures of the region. Its dunes, marshes, beaches open to the Bay of Biscay and impressive cliffs make up some of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain, attracting hikers, photographers and nature lovers alike.
Some of the best-known routes are those that run along the Ría de la Rabia coastline, ideal for discovering different ecosystems in a few kilometres and observing thousands of birds on their migratory routes.
Merón Beach
With almost 3 km of fine sand, Merón Beach is perfect for surfers and those looking for tranquillity. It has the advantage that, even on the busiest days, it is easy to access.
In addition, at sunset it becomes one of the most photogenic points in the area, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Picos de Europa in the background.
Comillas and its monumental heritage
Comillas is located less than 15 minutes from San Vicente de la Barquera. The town has one of the best ensembles of modernist architecture in the entire north of the Iberian Peninsula.
A must for art and history lovers. You can’t miss Sobrellano Palace, Gaudí’s Capricho and the Pontifical University. In addition, its old town and its wonderful beach become the perfect finale to the excursion.
Prellezo and the western coast
Prellezo is an excellent choice for those who prefer quiet natural landscapes. Its impressive cliffs, small coves and charming paths that run along the coast will leave you speechless.
Berellín Beach is particularly noteworthy, with calm waters and surrounded by karst formations. They become an ideal option for both swimming and snorkelling, but also for walks, photographing the landscape or simply enjoying nature.
Nansa Valley
The Nansa Valley is one of the best preserved rural areas in all of Cantabria. Dotted with villages that preserve the purest essence of the region, such as Tudanca, featuring mountain architecture and closely linked to the writer José María de Cossío.
In addition, the surroundings itself offer easy routes along the river, paths through the forest and small Romanesque churches scattered throughout the territory. The Nansa River Interpretation Centre in Puente Pumar is also a highly recommended place if you are interested in learning about the valley’s fauna, flora and culture.
El Soplao Cave
For caving adventurers, just 25 minutes from San Vicente de la Barquera, in the municipality of Rionansa, is the El Soplao Cave. It is known for its extraordinary abundance of helictites, eccentric formations that are very unusual on the European continent.
The route is suitable for all types of people. It takes about an hour and includes a short ride by mining train, making it particularly attractive for families. Just remember that the indoor temperature is around 12–13°C all year round, so we recommend wearing light warm clothes and closed shoes.
Natural viewpoints facing the Picos de Europa mountains
The region has several viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea and the Picos de Europa, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The La Talá Viewpoint, located very close to San Vicente de la Barquera, features a complete panoramic view of the estuary, the Ría and the historic centre, and is easily accessible by car. Another highlight is the Gandarilla Viewpoint, quieter and less known, from where you can contemplate both the coast and the rural surroundings.
Gerra and Oyambre Beaches
Located within Oyambre Nature Park, Gerra and Oyambre stand out for being beaches with a quiet atmosphere. Open, spacious and surrounded by beautiful landscapes, with dunes and well-preserved coastal meadows. Perfect for walking, watching the birds fly and enjoying the surroundings.
They have signposted accesses and parking areas, but they do not have too many services. Therefore, we advise you to bring water and food.
Forests and routes of Monte Corona
Located between the municipalities of San Vicente de la Barquera, Valdáliga and Comillas, Monte Corona is a leisure and recreation area that is very popular among the population.
It features an extensive network of trails and forest tracks that run between oaks, holm oaks and eucalyptus trees. Many of them have a circular route and can be covered between 1 and 3 hours. These itineraries are ideal for walking and cycling, especially in spring and autumn. In addition, from some higher points you can enjoy beautiful views of the coast.