What to do in Cantabria

Cantabria is one of the provinces with the highest density of mountain and coastal activities per square kilometre in Spain. The Picos de Europa, shared with Asturias and Castilla y León, reach 2,519 m at Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu): a limestone needle that is a national reference for alpinism, with climbing routes up to ED and a mountain hut at the base (Vega de Urriellu) reached on foot from Sotres. Hiking routes across the central massif range from high-mountain traverses to marked paths suitable for trekking boots. Canyoning finds its most developed sectors on the Cantabrian Coast in the Asón and Gándara rivers. The Gándara has several drops between 5 and 15 metres with green pools, accessible from Ramales de la Victoria. Water levels vary considerably with the season: peak season is June to September, when flows are more stable and water temperature more manageable. For surfing, Somo concentrates the bulk of the region's schools: it is a 5-minute ferry ride from Santander and receives consistent north-west swells from September to April. Cueva del Soplao, in the municipality of Rionansa, is one of the caves with the highest density of speleothems in southern Europe: more than 4 km of galleries with eccentric formations, stalactites and helictites that defy gravity. The standard guided visit lasts 90 minutes; there is a sports caving option with overalls and helmet. The Liencres dunes and sea kayaking on the Cantabrian Coast complete the offering, with companies operating from San Vicente de la Barquera to Castro Urdiales.