What to do in Santander

Santander, the Cantabrian capital, opens onto the Bay of Biscay between the bay and Monte Peña Cabarga, giving it a coast-and-mountain duality unmatched among northern Spain's provincial capitals. Sardinero Beach is one of the most recognised surf spots on the Cantabrian coast, with consistent sand banks and established surf schools drawing surf campers from across Spain. The Bay of Santander, sheltered by the Magdalena peninsula, offers calm water ideal for bay kayaking, paddleboarding and dinghy sailing from the harbour. Peña Cabarga, just 8 kilometres from the centre, rises 569 metres above sea level with direct access trails and panoramic views over the bay, the Picos de Europa on clear days and the Cantabrian coastline. MTB routes from the city itself connect with the surrounding network of forest tracks. Horse-riding routes run along the eastern coast and through the Pas and Besaya valleys. The proximity of the Picos de Europa, under 90 minutes away, makes Santander a base for high-mountain escapes and rafting on the Nansa and Saja rivers.