Cades Iron Forge

Highlights

  • • Only working visitable iron forge in all of Cantabria
  • • Live demonstration of the water-powered hammer driven by the River Nansa
  • • Complete complex: forge / charcoal stores / mills / manor house with coat of arms
  • • Over 110,000 visitors since opening in 2007
  • • Privileged location in the Nansa Valley surrounded by forests

Description

The Cades Iron Forge is the only working and visitable iron forge in Cantabria. Built in the 18th century on the banks of the River Nansa, this pre-industrial iron production facility was restored and opened to the public in 2007.

The complex includes the forge itself with its water-powered hammer, charcoal stores, two flour mills, the manor house with its coat of arms, and a granary. Guided tours feature a live demonstration of the hammer mechanism, driven by the waters of the Nansa.

Since opening, over 110,000 people have visited this unique example of Cantabrian industrial heritage. Its location in the Nansa Valley, surrounded by oak and chestnut forests, makes it an essential stop on any tour of rural Cantabria.

Key Information

Visit Duration

1-1.5 hours

Related Destinations

Guide

Essential information for visiting Cades Iron Forge

Location

How to get there

By carBy public transport
Practical Information
Visit Duration
1-1.5 hours
Planning Information

Best Time to Visit

Summer for extended hours. Spring and autumn to combine with routes through the Nansa Valley.

Things to do

Activities and experiences near Cades Iron Forge

20

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers about Cades Iron Forge

A guided tour costs EUR 7.50 (adults) and self-guided EUR 4. The guided tour includes a live demonstration of the water-powered hammer.
Yes. During the guided tour, the water-powered hammer is activated using the River Nansa flow, showing how iron was forged in the 18th century.
Via the CA-182 towards Cades from the N-634. Located in the municipality of Herrerias, 7 km from El Soplao Cave.
The guided tour takes approximately 1 hour. Booking is recommended, especially in high season.