What to do in Laredo

Laredo is one of the great seafaring towns on the Cantabrian coast, with a history dating back to the 13th century and a character that blends fishing tradition, medieval heritage and a long-standing tourist vocation. Its jewel is La Salvé Beach, over 4 kilometres of golden sand forming the longest beach in northern Spain, holding the Blue Flag year after year. The Puebla Vieja, the historic quarter, preserves cobbled streets, noble houses and the Gothic church of Santa María de la Asunción, one of the most important in Cantabria. From La Atalaya, an extinct volcano crowned by the Rastrillar Fort (listed heritage), the views reach across the entire Bay of Santoña, the marshlands and Monte Buciero. The gastronomy revolves around the sea: Cantabrian anchovies are the hallmark of the area, and the harbour bars serve fresh fish, fried squid and pintxos with views of the boats. In August, the Batalla de Flores transforms the seafront into a unique flower-float spectacle. Its location between Santander and Bilbao, with the Santoña Marshlands Natural Park on its doorstep, makes Laredo a perfect base for exploring the Eastern Cantabrian Coast.