Walking and wildlife holidays in Cantabria
- Capital: Santander.
- Area: 5,300 km²
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.
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 .
- 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.
- Macizo de Peña Cabarga Natural Park Fantastic views of the bay of Santander and an impressive Karst landscape.
- 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.
- 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 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.
Cantabria FAQs: Nature, Wildlife & Hiking
Cantabria stands out for its incredibly diverse landscapes. It boasts beautiful beaches along the Cantabrian Sea, lush river valleys filled with oak forests, and the soaring peaks of the Picos de Europa mountains. This mix creates perfect conditions for a range of outdoor activities—from relaxing seaside walks to demanding mountain treks. The region also supports a rich variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and a wide array of bird species, making it ideal for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Some of Cantabria’s most famous natural landmarks include the Picos de Europa mountain range, which contains Peña Vieja, the highest peak in the region at 2,613 meters. Another fascinating feature is the Pico de Tres Mares, where three rivers—the Duero, Nansa, and Ebro—originate, each flowing to different seas. The region’s protected natural parks, such as Oyambre and Saja Besaya, further highlight Cantabria’s extraordinary biodiversity and varied terrain.
Cantabria offers several natural parks, each with unique ecosystems and wildlife. Picos de Europa National Park is renowned for its rugged mountain scenery and deep river canyons. Oyambre Natural Park features estuaries and coastal habitats ideal for aquatic birds. Saja Besaya Natural Park is known for its dense forests and species like wild boar, wolves, and golden eagles. Dunas de Liencres offers impressive dunes and pine forests, while Marismas de Santoña is an important wetland for migratory birds. Peña Cabarga provides karst landscapes and panoramic views, and Collados del Asón is a haven for large birds of prey.
Cantabria caters to all hikers with a network of trails ranging from easy coastal routes to challenging mountain ascents in the Picos de Europa. Trails lead through ancient oak forests, quaint villages, and stunning mountain landscapes. The Fuente Dé cable car allows visitors to access higher-altitude trails without the full climb, making high mountain hikes more accessible. Wildlife spotting along these routes adds to the adventure.
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot an impressive range of animals. In parks like Saja Besaya, visitors might see wild boar, otters, and wolves, as well as golden eagles soaring overhead. Deer are common, especially during the rutting season. Coastal parks like Oyambre provide habitat for aquatic birds such as teal, mallard, and curlew. Collados del Asón is home to large raptors like griffon vultures and Egyptian vultures. In remote areas, brown bears can occasionally be sighted.
Cantabria offers rich cultural experiences alongside nature. Visitors can explore charming towns like Santander, enjoy traditional cuisine, and discover local customs. A highlight is the Altamira Cave near Santander, famed for its prehistoric cave paintings dating back over 36,000 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into early human history.
Santander is the main gateway with an international airport and ferry port connecting to the UK and other parts of Europe. While trains and buses link towns and cities, renting a car is recommended to explore the region’s remote natural parks and mountain villages at your own pace. Good roads and signage make driving manageable for visitors.
The best time for outdoor activities is from spring to early autumn when the weather is mild and relatively dry. Summer months are perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the beaches. Winters are cooler and wetter, making them less ideal for hiking but offering a quieter experience for those who prefer solitude.
Absolutely. Many walking routes are gentle and suitable for families with children. Wildlife parks like Cabárceno provide safe, accessible ways to see animals up close. Beaches and coastal paths offer fun and relaxation for all ages, making Cantabria a great destination for family nature holidays.
Wildside Holidays focuses on sustainable, eco-friendly walking, wildlife, and cultural holidays. In Cantabria, they provide trusted guides and connections to local businesses offering authentic experiences. Their emphasis on responsible tourism helps visitors enjoy Cantabria’s natural beauty while supporting conservation and local communities.
About the author of this article.
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.