Published on
August 15, 2025
Cantabria, situated in the north of Spain, boasts a collection of historical sites, a rough coastline, and beautiful nature that captures the traveller’s heart. The coastline of the Cantabrian Sea and the extraordinary Picos de Europa mountains are rich in many beautiful undiscovered treasures. The extraordinary, picturesque villages, awe-inspiring estuaries, and the breathtaking historic sites of Cantabria marks it as the ideal summer getaway for the tourists seeking for adventure, deep dive into the culture or relaxation.
Nearby Airport for Easy Access
Cantabria is conveniently accessible via Santander Airport (SDR), located just 10 kilometers from the city center. The airport connects to various European cities, making it an ideal starting point for your summer adventure in this beautiful region.
Total Visitors Per Year
Cantabria closed with over 2.1 million visitors, experiencing a steady increase in tourism each year. As more travelers seek a quieter alternative to Spain’s more crowded regions, Cantabria has become a popular destination for both nature lovers and culture seekers, particularly during the summer months when the weather is perfect for outdoor exploration.
Key Attractions in Cantabria
Picos de Europa National Park: One of the crown jewels of Cantabria, Picos de Europa National Park is an adventure lover’s paradise. Known for its dramatic mountain peaks and lush valleys, this park offers a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, cycling, and bird watching. The Fuente Dé cable car provides stunning panoramic views and easy access to the mountain slopes.
Santillana del Mar: Known as “the town of three lies” (it’s neither saintly, flat, nor by the sea), Santillana del Mar is one of the most picturesque medieval villages in Spain. Its cobbled streets, stone buildings, and the Colegiata de Santa Juliana church are key attractions. Don’t miss the Altamira Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its prehistoric paintings, which is located just outside the village.
Comillas: A beautiful coastal town, Comillas is known for its stunning modernist architecture, including Gaudí’s El Capricho and the Palacio de Sobrellano. It also offers breathtaking views of the Oyambre Natural Park, with its lush dunes and beautiful beaches.
The Beaches of Suances: Suances is home to some of the best beaches in Cantabria. Los Locos Beach attracts surfers with its rough waves, while La Concha Beach is perfect for families and those seeking calm waters. Sable Beach, located near the village of Tagle, offers peaceful walking trails and beautiful views of the coast.
Adventure Activities in Cantabria
Hiking and Trekking in Picos de Europa: For outdoor enthusiasts, Picos de Europa offers a network of trails that provide stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Popular hikes include the Cares Gorge Trail, a challenging but rewarding route that runs along the Cares River and offers spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs.
Surfing in Suances: Suances is one of Cantabria’s top spots for surfing, especially at Los Locos Beach, which is renowned for its powerful waves. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, the beach offers ideal conditions for the sport.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the region’s natural beauty from the water with kayaking and canoeing tours along the Saja River or the Oyambre Estuary, offering a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the coastline and surrounding landscapes.
Cycling in the Countryside: Cantabria’s diverse terrain makes it perfect for cycling. Whether you’re exploring the Pasiegos Valleys or cycling along the coast to Somo and Loredo, the region offers several routes with varying levels of difficulty.
Upcoming Events and Concerts in Cantabria
Santander Music Festival: The Santander Music Festival is an annual event that takes place during the summer, featuring a mix of international and local artists. Expect performances in genres such as classical, jazz, and contemporary music, with concerts held at various venues around the city.
Comillas International Music Festival: This prestigious festival, held in Comillas, is known for its classical music concerts. Set in the town’s historic venues, the festival attracts world-class musicians and offers a unique opportunity to experience classical performances in a stunning coastal setting.
Suances Beach Party: For a more relaxed and vibrant atmosphere, the Suances Beach Party hosts live music performances, DJ sets, and beach parties throughout the summer. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the town’s beaches and cliffs.
Summer Travel Tips for Cantabria
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cantabria is from June to September when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it perfect for beach visits, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Stay Hydrated and Sun Protection: While exploring the region’s outdoor attractions, make sure to stay hydrated and use sunscreen, especially when hiking in the mountains or walking along the beaches. The Cantabrian sun can be strong during the summer months.
Local Cuisine to Try: Cantabria is known for its seafood and traditional dishes. Don’t miss the chance to try anchovies from Santoña, sopa de pescado (fish soup), and tapas featuring fresh local fish, all complemented by the region’s excellent wines and cheeses.
Conclusion
Cantabria has a unique Picos de Europa summer mountain beach coastal towns adventure culture nature holidays beach summer vacation culture festivals. Relaxing by the sea, hiking the majestic mountains, or unwinding at the world-class concerts ensured a wonderfully unforgettable experience. Cantabria promotes a scenic escape world class concerts.
