La Cohilla Reservoir

Highlights

  • • 116-metre arch dam: the largest in Spain when inaugurated in 1950
  • • La Cohilla viewpoint with panoramic views of the Nansa Valley
  • • Masterwork of Santiago Corral Perez with innovative tunneled spillway
  • • Walkable 288-metre-long dam crown
  • • Starting point for hiking routes through Polaciones and Tudanca

Description

The La Cohilla Reservoir features an imposing 116-metre-high arch dam on the River Nansa, at the boundary between the municipalities of Polaciones and Tudanca. Inaugurated in 1950, it was Spain's largest arch dam at the time, designed by engineer Santiago Corral Perez.

The dam crown, stretching 288 metres across, offers a vertiginous perspective over the valley. The reservoir, with a capacity of 12.33 hm3, extends amid mountains in the highest part of the Nansa Valley. Its innovative tunneled spillway, bored through the right slope, was a technical novelty for the era.

The La Cohilla viewpoint, accessible by road, is one of the most photogenic spots in inland Cantabria. From here, hiking routes lead to the Camino del Potro and the villages of the Polaciones Valley.

Key Information

Visit Duration

1-2 hours

Related Destinations

Guide

Essential information for visiting La Cohilla Reservoir

Location

How to get there

By carBy public transport
Practical Information
Visit Duration
1-2 hours
Planning Information

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn for hiking. In winter the road may be icy.

Historical Facts

Inaugurated in 1950 and designed by Santiago Corral Perez (1907-1989). It was Spain's largest arch dam and one of the tallest in Europe at the time. Its tunneled spillway bored through the right slope was a worldwide technical innovation.

Things to do

Activities and experiences near La Cohilla Reservoir

20

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers about La Cohilla Reservoir

Yes, the dam crown is walkable. From it you get spectacular views both upstream (the reservoir) and downstream (the Nansa gorge).
Via the CA-280 from Puentenansa towards Polaciones. The road climbs for about 20 minutes to the dam. Parking next to the viewpoint.
Yes, though care is needed on the dam crown due to the height. The viewpoint is safe and easily accessible by road.
The reservoir is used for hydroelectric power. Fishing is regulated by the regional authorities of Cantabria.