Cantabria is a small territory full of contrasts and diversity, but nature is one element that sets us apart and that we have in abundance. Our distinctive green landscape, which spills over into neighbouring regions, is both a sign of who we are and one of our most valuable and abundant resources. So today we would like to take you on a tour of six natural parks in Cantabria today, where you may experience nature in all its glory. Would you like to come along?

The National Park of Picos de Europa

Let us start with the largest natural park in terms of size. It is one of the most beautiful places in the region. The vastness of its mountains, geography, and fauna make it an ideal destination at any time of year. In just four minutes, the Fuente Dé cableway takes you to more than 1,800 metres above sea level in the heart of the national park.

If you want to feel as if you’re touching the sky and stars and experiencing nature at its finest, the National Park of Picos de Europa is the place to be. An overnight stay at the Hotel Aliva is not to be missed. It is the ideal place to make your stay in the National Park of Picos de Europa a unique experience.

The Natural Park of the Dunes of Liencres

Do you love surfing and the sea? If you are looking for a true surfing paradise, then look no further than this natural park. The coves of this park and the two beautiful beaches of Valdearenas and Canallave, surrounded by the most important dune system in northern Spain, are a dream come true for nature and sea lovers.

Climb to the viewpoint of la Picota, a mountain at the top of Abra de Pas, to enjoy a perfect view of the park in all its splendour and take a wonderful photo. It is also a perfect place to enjoy the sunsets on clear summer days.

The Natural Park of Oyambre

Visitors will be amazed by the beauty of the cliffs, beaches, dunes, estuaries and sandy marshes in this natural coastal enclave between the towns of Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera.

You will also love the huge, wild beaches from Oyambre to Merón, surrounded by large swathes of forest. A visitors’ centre in this natural park offers guided tours.

The Nature Reserve of the Marshes of Santoña, Victoria and Joyel

This protected natural area on the east coast of Cantabria extends over eleven municipalities along its route. In this park, formed by the mouth of the river Asón and the marshes of Victoria and Joyel, you can take part in nature activities, workshops and walks.

And if you like bird watching, you have come to the right place, because this wetland is the most important to see aquatic bird life in northern Spain, with up to 130 different species.

The Natural Park of Collados del Asón

This natural park in Soba is one of the most spectacular landscapes you can enjoy in Cantabria. Its ecosystems, the diversity of the associated fauna and flora, the tranquillity and authenticity of the landscapes are all worth a visit.

There are several routes to explore this spectacular natural environment, all of which start from the visitors’ centre.

The Natural Park of Saja Besaya

This natural park is the perfect place to discover some of Cantabria’s best forests. This huge 245-square-kilometre park is a haven for precious native fauna, including the capercaillie.

It is the perfect place for mountain walks, which you can find out about at the visitors’ centre. But to see this park in all its splendour, you have to climb up to the “La Cardosa” vantage point. From this balcony, next to the deer sculpture, you have a breathtaking view of the natural park.

Six parks, each with its own unique characteristics, where you can enjoy nature while visiting Cantabria. Did you already know about any of these parks? Do you have a favourite? Let us know using our Cantabria Infinita social media profiles on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the hastag #ComparteCantabria. Come to Cantabria this summer and lose yourself in nature. Look no further!