The Montaña de Covadonga National Park was established in Asturias in 1918, the first national park in Spain. The, now larger, park covers three major massifs – Western, Central and Eastern which are all part of the Cordillera Cantabria range. The dramatic Cares river canyon, which is 1,500m deep, divides the western and central parts.

Cantabria

Walking and wildlife holidays in Cantabria

  • Capital: Santander.
  • Area: 5,300 km²
The Pico de Tres Mares is well known as three different rivers begin here
The Pico de Tres Mares is well known as three different
rivers begin here.

Cantabria, a stunning region located on the north coast of Spain, is a true paradise for nature lovers.

Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, as well as lush river valleys and verdant mountains, this region is a feast for the senses.

Find hotels in Cantabria over at Booking.com

Santander, the charming capital city of Cantabria, is the gateway to this natural wonderland.

With both a ferry port and an airport, it’s easy to reach and explore the natural beauty of this region.

From the sandy beaches of the Cantabrian Sea to the picturesque villages nestled in the rolling hills, Cantabria offers a wealth of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Join Clive for an inspiring audio journey through Cantabria, a nature-lover’s paradise on Spain’s north coast.

Discover stunning beaches, lush valleys, and the towering peaks of the Picos de Europa, including Peña Vieja and the unique Pico de Tres Mares. From coastal strolls to high-mountain treks, Cantabria offers diverse hiking and wildlife experiences across protected natural parks like Saja Besaya, Oyambre, and Collados del Asón. Explore charming towns, taste local cuisine, and visit cultural treasures like the Altamira Cave. Whether you’re seeking adventure or peace, Cantabria has something unforgettable waiting.

A short video shows the beauty of Cantabria

This is a great short promo video recorded in various languages and sign language for the hard of hearing. The photography of the Cantabrian countryside is quite spectacular.

Whether you’re looking to hike through the mountains, soak up the sun on the beach, or simply immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this region, Cantabria has something for everyone.
G Adventures guided holidays in Spain
Throw yourself into the vibrant culture of Spain’s historic cities, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes Guided holidays at G Adventures.

The highest peaks are to be found in the Picos de Europa mountain range which is shared between Cantabria, Castilla y Leon and Asturias. The Peña Vieja summit at 2,613 m is the highest point within Cantabria.

The Pico de Tres Mares is well known as three different rivers begin here, the Duero ending in the Atlantic Ocean, the Nansa finishing in the Cantabrian sea and the Ebro leading to the Mediterranean Sea.

The Altamira cave is 270 metres (890 feet) long, discovered by a hunter in 1868 it is famous for its magnificent prehistoric paintings and engravings. It can be found around 30 kilometres (19 miles) west of Santander.

Listen to Mike and Sarah talking about Cantabria

Join Mike and Sarah on Discovering Spain: Wildlife, Culture, and Travel Insights as they explore the breathtaking region of Cantabria on Spain’s northern coast. From the dramatic Picos de Europa mountains to hidden beaches and lush river valleys, this episode uncovers why Cantabria is a haven for hikers, wildlife lovers, and culture seekers alike. Learn about iconic spots like Peña Vieja, Pico de Tres Mares, and the Altamira Cave, and dive into the region’s natural parks teeming with biodiversity. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming of Spain, this is your guide to Cantabria’s wild side.

Tours in Cantabria from Viator

Cantabria has a vast array of sites to visit and enjoy. Below are some of the options listed on the Viator website. (We recieve a small commission if you book a tour which doesn’t cost you more and helps us to keep Wildside Holidays up to date with the best information.)

Natural parks in Cantabria
Natural Parks in Spain - Cantabria
Natural Parks in Spain – Cantabria
  1. National Park of Picos de Europa. The Montaña de Covadonga National Park ( now The Picos de Europa National Park) was established in Asturias in 1918, the first national park in Spain. The now much larger park covers three major massifs – Western, Central and Eastern which are all part of the Cordillera Cantabria range. The dramatic Cares river canyon, which is 1,500m deep, divides the western and central parts.
  2. Oyambre The estuaries and rocky and muddy intertidal zones comprise an excellent habitat for the many aquatic birds that winter in the area or rest there during migrations. Among the species that can be observed are the common teal, mallard, common sandpiper, curlew and other species such as the shag and the yellow- legged gull.
  3. Saja Besaya Natural Park This protected area has a great wealth of fauna and flora. Among the numerous species, the wild boar, otter, wolf, golden eagle and roe deer stand out . The deer, which was reintroduced in 1949, is now found throughout the area attracting thousands of visitors hoping to experience the bellowing during the rutting season .
  4. Dunas de Liencres Natural Park This area is made up of coves and two beaches and has a large maritime pine plantation and one of the most important dune systems in Cantabria.
  5. Macizo de Peña Cabarga Natural Park Fantastic views of the bay of Santander and an impressive Karst landscape.
  6. Marismas de Santoña Victoria y Joyel The Santoña Victoria y Joyel Natural Park is one of the wetlands of most ecological value in the north of Spain. It is used as a winter refuge and migratory passage by many species of birds.
  7. Collados del Ason Natural Park The area is inhabited by a wide representation of the Cantabrian mountain fauna including the large raptors such as griffon vulture, Egyptian vulture, short-toed eagle and goshawk.
Looking for guided or self guided walking in Cantabria?
Walking North Spain

Walking North Spain are located in San Sebastian in the heart of a fantastic area for holidays and mountain travel, trips and routes are arranged in most of northern Spain (Basque Country, Navarra, Western Pyrenees, La Rioja, Picos de Europa…), as well as in the French Basque Country and the French Pyrenees. https://wildsideholidays.co.uk/walking-north-spain/

Are you searching for a walking or wildlife holiday in Cantabria?

Look no further, as Cantabria offers an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This charming region in northern Spain boasts a diverse landscape, featuring lush forests, rugged mountains, and a stunning coastline, making it a paradise for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a hiker eager to explore picturesque trails or a wildlife enthusiast hoping to spot unique fauna and flora, Cantabria has something to offer for every nature lover.

Hiking and walking

Cantabria is renowned for its extensive network of hiking routes, ranging from gentle strolls along the Cantabrian Sea to challenging treks through the Picos de Europa. You can wander through ancient oak forests, visit quaint villages, and encounter breathtaking vistas at every turn. If wildlife is your passion, Cantabria’s natural parks and reserves are teeming with diverse ecosystems, providing a habitat for numerous species, including brown bears, wolves, and a rich array of birdlife. You’ll have the opportunity to witness these creatures in their natural habitat, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Culture, towns and cities

Moreover, Cantabria’s charming towns and cities offer a rich cultural experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local way of life, sample delicious cuisine, and explore historical sites. So, whether you’re seeking an adventurous walking expedition or an immersive wildlife encounter, Cantabria’s diverse natural beauty and warm hospitality make it an excellent choice for your next holiday.

About the author of this article.
Clive Muir - Wildside Holidays Walking in Grazalema
Clive Muir – Wildside Holidays – Walking, wildlife and Culture holidays in Spain

I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain.

Ronda Today

Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/

Visit Cádiz

Planning on visiting Cádiz? Tourist information. Monuments. Hotels. Activities. City guides: https://visitingcadiz.com/

The Caminito del Rey

Find tickets for the Caminito del Rey: https://www.caminodelrey.es/

Wildside Holidays – Spain

Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.

Iberia Nature Forum

Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum! https://iberianatureforum.com/

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