Cantabrias East Coast Road Trip

Experience the Cantabrian Coast with an unforgettable road trip along the East Coast. Starting in Santander, the route takes you through Somo, Santona, and Laredo, with a total distance of 113km. You can complete the entire trip in two days, and the best time to go is during the summer months when you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and beaches along the way. The roads are in good condition, although some sections are curvy and narrow. Regardless, the experience of this road trip is worth the effort, as you will be rewarded with amazing memories and sights. And best of all, it can be accomplished on a moderate budget.

Santander is the perfect starting point for the Cantabrian East Coast Road Trip. It is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and delicious cuisine that must be experienced. Located in the northern coast of Spain, Santander offers a wide range of tourist attractions, from its beautiful beaches to its picturesque old town. One of the most popular sights in Santander is the Cathedral of Santander, a magnificent 18th century Baroque-style cathedral. Other notable attractions include the El Sardinero beach, the Royal Palace of La Magdalena, and the Botín art centre. For those travelling by air, the closest international airport to Santander is Santander Airport (SDR). Car rental is available at this airport, making it easier to explore the city and its surroundings. From Santander, you can also take a ferry to other nearby destinations such as Bilbao and Gijón. No matter which way you choose to explore the city, Santander is sure to make an indelible impression. With its stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and breathtaking scenery, Santander is an ideal starting point for the Cantabrian East Coast Road Trip.

Are you ready for a spectacular road trip from Santander to Somo? This stage of the tour is only 25 km long and you can drive it in less than an hour. Start your journey in Santander and visit the beautiful Sardinero Beach, with its historical buildings, the Monument to the Heroes of the Cantabrian Sea and its amazing views of the bay. Don’t forget to take a picture of the iconic Magdalena Palace! Continue your journey to Somo, where you can relax at the beach and enjoy the amazing views of the Cantabrian Sea. You can also visit the old fishing village and the nearby golf course. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the “Itinerary” for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip from Santander to Somo and take in the amazing views of the Cantabrian Sea!

Start your road trip in Somo, Spain and take a quick drive of less than 2 hours, covering 50 km, to reach Noja. Here you can visit the beautiful beaches of La Arena, La Concha, and La Isla. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea while strolling along the promenade. The winding roads of this route will take you to Santona, a picturesque fishing village. Here, you can explore the historic sites of the Roman era, such as the Roman Villa and the remains of the old Roman road. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from the cliffs. In Santona, you can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes to enjoy some delicious local cuisine. For those who love nature, there are plenty of trails to explore. This is an amazing stage of your road trip, where you can enjoy the stunning views, explore the historic sites, and savor the local cuisine. Make sure to pay attention to the scenic roads while driving. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Heading out on a road trip from Santona to Laredo is an experience you won’t want to miss. Just 14km and less than an hour of driving time, you’ll discover some of the most beautiful scenery and attractions in Spain. Sections of the road are narrow, but the views are worth it. In Santona, you can explore the historic castle and the old town, with its cobbled streets, its churches and its ancient walls. In Laredo, you can take a stroll along the beach and visit the fishing port, with its traditional boats and seafood restaurants. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route is available in the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

If you are looking for a great road trip, then the journey from Laredo to Castro Urdiales is perfect for you! This 25 km route takes less than an hour to drive, and offers some of the most stunning views Spain has to offer. The road is narrow in sections, so pay attention while driving and make sure to enjoy the scenic views! Along the way you can visit some of the most interesting places, such as the Laredo Beach, the Port of Laredo, and the Castro Urdiales Castle. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Laredo to Castro Urdiales!

Welcome to Castro Urdiales, the final destination of the "Cantabrias East Coast Road Trip"! This coastal town located in the north of Spain is the perfect spot to end your journey. The town of Castro Urdiales is full of charm and history, with some of the best attractions in the region. First and foremost, the Castle of Santa Ana, built in the 15th century, is a must-see. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and its grounds, and get a glimpse into the past. The downtown area of Castro Urdiales is full of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend some time exploring. The main pedestrian street, Calle Mayor, is filled with colorful buildings that date back to the 19th century, as well as plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from. Nature lovers can also find plenty to do in Castro Urdiales. The town is located on the Bay of Biscay, and visitors can take a boat tour to view the stunning coastline. The area is also home to many beautiful beaches and parks, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For those flying into the area, the closest international airport is Bilbao Airport (BIO). From there, it is just a short drive to Castro Urdiales. So, when you are ready to end your road trip, be sure to make a stop in this charming town.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating journey along Spain's Cantabrian Coast, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and picturesque villages. The Road Trip starts in the bustling city of Santander and weaves through charming coastal towns like Somo, Santoña, and Laredo. This 113km route is an ideal getaway for a two-day exploration filled with diverse attractions, from stunning beaches to rich historical landmarks.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Santander: Immerse yourself in the beauty of this historic city, featuring the renowned Magdalena Palace, the tranquil Pereda Gardens, and the Centro Botín, a cultural centerpiece designed by the famed architect Renzo Piano. The city's bay, often regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world, offers a panoramic vista of crystal waters and mountains.
• Somo: A haven for surf enthusiasts, Somo boasts a magnificent beach that stretches over 4 kilometers, providing ample space for surf schools, beachgoers, and an annual surf competition that draws international attention.
• Santoña: Explore the biodiversity of the Santoña, Victoria, and Joyel Marshes Natural Park, a haven for birdwatching, with species such as the rare Cantabrian capercaillie. Santoña is also known for its anchovies, considered some of the best in the world, and celebrated with an annual festival.
• Laredo: Step back in time in the Puebla Vieja, Laredo's medieval old town, and marvel at the 12th-century Santa María de la Asunción Church. The town's 5km-long Playa La Salvé offers a perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying water sports.

Best Time to Go:

Experience the Cantabrian Coast at its finest from June to September when the weather is warmest, and the beaches are most inviting. This period also coincides with many local festivals and events, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to your Trip.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are mostly in good condition, some coastal stretches can be challenging with sharp bends and narrow lanes. Advance planning is recommended to ensure familiarity with the driving conditions. Keep an eye on the weather, as the region can experience sudden changes, and always adhere to local driving regulations.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• This Road Trip is an excellent value for money, offering a variety of experiences without breaking the bank.
• The diverse landscape along the route includes pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and lush wetlands.
• Accommodations cater to all preferences, from beachfront campgrounds to boutique hotels.
• The gastronomic journey is a delight, with local specialties like Cantabrian anchovies, seafood stews, and the unique sobaos pasiegos (delicate buttery cakes).

A good choice for:

A Cantabrian Coast Road Trip from Santander to Laredo is more than a Scenic Drive; it's an affordable journey through the heart of Spain's maritime heritage, combining natural splendor with cultural richness. Whether you're basking on sun-soaked beaches or exploring ancient streets, this adventure promises lasting memories for every kind of traveler.