The Ajo estuary and the municipality of Meruelo form one of the most peaceful and well-preserved corners of Cantabria's eastern coast. Here, among tidal marshes, green meadows and small villages, horse riding routes allow visitors to discover this landscape at a slow pace and in direct contact with nature. The setting combines the beauty of estuarine ecosystems with the calm of the rural interior, creating a scene that is hard to find elsewhere in northern Spain.
The routes are designed to be accessible to people with no prior riding experience. The horses are calm and accustomed to varied terrain, from dirt paths along the estuary to meadows and woodland trails. A guide accompanies the group throughout, explaining the surroundings and ensuring the experience is safe and enjoyable for all participants.
This activity is particularly well suited to families with children, couples looking for something different, and groups of friends who want to explore Cantabria in an alternative way to hiking or cycling. No previous riding knowledge is required: before setting off, the guide covers the basic principles of handling and posture so that everyone feels comfortable from the very first moment.
Routes vary in duration, with options of one hour, one and a half hours or two hours, allowing the experience to be tailored to different rhythms and preferences. Along the way it is common to spot birds typical of marsh ecosystems, such as herons, sandpipers or even flamingos at certain times of year, adding a wildlife-watching dimension to the equestrian experience.
Meruelo and Ajo are located in the Trasmiera comarca, an area that retains remarkable natural and architectural heritage and has not yet been overwhelmed by mass tourism. A horse ride here is a way to connect with the most authentic side of Cantabria, away from the busier circuits, and to take home a genuine memory of the region.
