Santoña Marshes Natural Park
This is a beautiful wetland area that is home to a wide variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, and there are several observation points where you can watch the birds in their natural habitat.
Cabárceno Nature Park
This is a wildlife park located in a former mining area. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by car, or by cable car.

Cantabria

WELCOME TO Cantabria

Province Overview

Main city

Santander

AREA

5,321 km2

POPULATION

582,000

Main language

Spanish

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Altamira Cave

Altamira Cave, located in northern Spain, contains some of the earliest known examples of prehistoric art dating back to the Upper Paleolithic period, around 36,000 years ago. The cave is famous for its vivid paintings of bison, deer, horses, and other animals, executed in a sophisticated style with natural pigments.

Santander

Santander is a global bank headquartered in Spain, with operations in Europe, Latin America, and the United States. It is one of the largest banks in the world by market capitalization and operates in retail banking, commercial banking, and investment banking. The bank was founded in 1857 and has a long history of mergers and acquisitions.

Picos de Europa National Park

Picos de Europa National Park is a stunning mountainous region located in northern Spain, spanning across the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León. It was declared a national park in 1995 and boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as impressive peaks, valleys, and lakes.

Political

Economy and Government

Cantabria is a region in the north of Spain that boasts a diverse economy with a focus on industry, agriculture, and tourism. The regional government plays a crucial role in supporting and developing these sectors through policies that promote sustainable growth and innovation.

The industrial sector in Cantabria is particularly strong, with a focus on traditional manufacturing industries such as steel and machinery, as well as emerging industries such as renewable energy and biotechnology. The government has implemented policies to support research and development in these areas, as well as investing in infrastructure and training programs to attract new businesses to the region.

Agriculture is also an important sector in Cantabria, with a focus on dairy farming and the production of high-quality food products such as cheeses and cured meats. The government has implemented policies to promote sustainable farming practices and support small-scale producers, as well as investing in marketing and promotion to increase the visibility of Cantabrian products.

Tourism is a key driver of the regional economy, with the region's stunning coastline, historic sites, and natural parks attracting visitors from around the world. The government has implemented policies to support the development of sustainable tourism, promoting responsible tourism practices and investing in infrastructure and marketing initiatives to attract more visitors to the region.

Overall, the Cantabrian government is committed to promoting sustainable economic growth and supporting the region's diverse industries, while also protecting the environment and preserving the region's unique cultural heritage.

History

History and Culture

Cantabria is a region located in the north of Spain, bordered by the Bay of Biscay to the north, Asturias to the east, Castile and León to the south, and the Cantabrian Sea to the west. The region has a rich history and culture, shaped by its geographic location and the influence of different civilizations throughout the centuries.

Cantabria has a long history, dating back to prehistoric times. The region is known for its cave art, particularly the famous Altamira Cave, which contains some of the earliest known examples of prehistoric art. Over the centuries, Cantabria was inhabited by Celts, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, each leaving their mark on the region's culture.

One of the most iconic symbols of Cantabria is the Santander Peninsula, which boasts stunning beaches and coastal landscapes. The region is also home to several historic towns, such as Santillana del Mar, Comillas, and Castro Urdiales, which are famous for their medieval architecture and monuments.

Cantabria's culture is characterized by its traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The region's traditional dance, called "La Danza de las Espadas," is performed by men in traditional costumes wielding swords. The local cuisine is known for its seafood, especially anchovies and sardines, as well as local specialties like cocido montañés, a hearty stew made with beans and pork.

Overall, Cantabria's history and culture are an integral part of the region's identity, shaped by its unique geography and the influence of different civilizations throughout the centuries.

HOTELS​

Parador de Santillana del Mar

This historic hotel is located in the picturesque town of Santillana del Mar and is housed in a 17th-century mansion. The hotel features a restaurant serving regional cuisine, a garden, and a terrace with views of the town.

Hotel Real de Santander

This elegant hotel is located in the city of Santander and features a restaurant serving seafood and traditional Cantabrian cuisine, as well as a bar and a fitness center. The rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated.

Eurostars Hotel Real

This luxurious hotel is located in a beautiful 19th-century palace in the city of Santander, overlooking the Bay of Santander. The hotel features a gourmet restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a spa with a sauna and steam room, and a fitness center. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated.

RESTAURANTS​

El Serbal

Located in the heart of Santander, El Serbal is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in modern, innovative cuisine. The menu features creative dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the wine list is extensive, with a focus on local and Spanish wines.

La Bicicleta

Situated in the charming coastal town of Suances, La Bicicleta is a popular seafood restaurant that offers stunning views of the sea. The menu features a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes, as well as traditional Cantabrian specialties like cocido montañés (a hearty bean and meat stew).

El Nuevo Molino

Located in Puente Arce, just outside of Santander, El Nuevo Molino is a cozy restaurant housed in a restored 18th-century mill. The menu features traditional Cantabrian cuisine, including dishes like rabas and cocido lebaniego. The restaurant also has a beautiful garden terrace, perfect for outdoor dining on warm days.