Cantabria, a small yet enchanting region in northern Spain, is often overshadowed by more widely known Spanish destinations like Catalonia, Andalusia, or Madrid. But for travelers who crave lush landscapes, prehistoric wonders, dramatic coastlines, and a rich cultural heritage, Cantabria is one of Spain’s most rewarding hidden treasures. Tucked between the rugged Atlantic coast and the mighty Cantabrian Mountains, the region blends nature, history, gastronomy, and tradition like few others can.

In this carefully prepared guide, we explore the Top 10 Most Interesting Facts About Cantabria, each one revealing why this region deserves a place on your travel bucket list.

1. Cantabria Is Home to the World-Famous Altamira Cave: The “Sistine Chapel” of Prehistoric Art

One of the biggest claims to fame for Cantabria is the Altamira Cave, located near Santillana del Mar. Discovered in 1879, it contains some of the oldest and most exquisite Paleolithic paintings ever found, dating back over 14,000 years.

The bison, horses, and handprints painted on its walls are not merely historic—they’re considered masterpieces of human creativity. The cave is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its detailed ceiling frescoes have earned it the nickname “The Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art.”

Because the real cave is fragile and closed to the public, you can explore a perfectly recreated replica at the Altamira Museum, which offers an immersive journey into the Upper Paleolithic era.

2. Cantabria Is Known as “Green Spain” for a Reason

While much of Spain is known for sun-soaked plains and dry Mediterranean landscapes, Cantabria is the opposite. Thanks to its northern Atlantic climate, the region is covered in lush forest, emerald valleys, rolling meadows, and thick woodlands.

Its environment earns it a place in the broader zone known as “España Verde” (Green Spain) alongside Asturias, Galicia, and the Basque Country.

This makes Cantabria a paradise for lovers of:

Hiking
Wildlife
Photography
Rural tourism
Nature escapes

If green scenery is your weakness, Cantabria will charm you instantly.

3. Santander, the Capital, Is One of Spain’s Most Elegant Coastal Cities

Cantabria’s capital Santander stands out as one of the most graceful and peaceful cities in northern Spain. With its sweeping bay—often ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world—Santander combines natural beauty with refined urban life.

Some highlights include:

El Sardinero Beach
Magdalena Peninsula and Palace
Centro Botín cultural center
Historic neighborhoods and seaside promenades

Its blend of beaches, culture, and gentle sophistication makes it a must-visit destination.

4. Cantabria Has Over 220 Kilometers of Dramatic Coastline

Despite being a small region, Cantabria boasts an impressive 220 km of coastline, filled with cliffs, dunes, coves, and some of Spain’s most breathtaking beaches.

Notable beaches include:

Playa de Oyambre – pristine and wild
Playa de Langre – dramatic cliffs and surf waves
Playa de Laredo – long golden sands
Playa de Somo – one of Spain’s best surfing spots

The coastline offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and postcard-worthy beauty.

5. The Region Is a Paradise for Food Lovers—Especially Seafood Fans

Cantabrian cuisine is a major reason why visitors fall in love with the region. Freshness, depth of flavor, and traditional recipes define its culinary heritage.

Foods and dishes you must try include:

Rabas: Cantabrian-style fried squid (a local obsession)
Cocido Montañés: A hearty white-bean stew perfect for mountain weather
Anchoas de Santoña: Some of the best anchovies in the world
Quesos Pasiegos: Traditional cheeses from the Pas Valley
Sobaos Pasiegos: Soft, buttery sponge cakes unique to Cantabria

Seafood caught from the Cantabrian Sea is considered among the finest in Europe.

6. Cantabria Is One of the Most Mountainous Regions in Spain

Although often celebrated for its coastline, Cantabria’s rugged inland mountains are equally impressive.

The region is home to the Cantabrian Mountains, including the famous Picos de Europa National Park, shared with Asturias and Castile & León. This park is filled with:

towering limestone peaks
deep gorges
glacial lakes
rich biodiversity
traditional stone villages

It’s a dream destination for hikers, climbers, and wildlife observers. The Fuente Dé cable car, which ascends nearly 753 meters in minutes, offers jaw-dropping panoramic views.

7. Cantabria Has Some of Spain’s Most Charming Medieval Towns

Cantabria is dotted with beautifully preserved medieval towns that feel like stepping into another century.

Top picks include:

Santillana del Mar

Often described as “the town of three lies”—not holy (santi), not flat (llana), and not by the sea (mar)—it’s one of Spain’s most perfectly preserved medieval villages.

Comillas

Known for its aristocratic palaces, modernist architecture, and Gaudí’s El Capricho, one of his few works outside Catalonia.

Castro Urdiales

A picturesque fishing town with a striking Gothic church, ancient castle, and charming old port.

These towns offer cobbled streets, stone houses, and deep-rooted traditions—perfect for slow travel.

8. Cantabria Has a Unique Cultural Identity Rooted in Ancient Traditions

Cantabrian culture is shaped by its ancient Cantabri tribes, who resisted Roman conquest fiercely. Today, traditional customs still thrive in rural areas.

Cultural highlights include:

Folklore festivals with traditional dances like the picao
Traditional Pas Valley architecture with stone houses and wooden balconies
Mythological heritage, featuring characters like Ojáncano (a giant cyclops) and Nubero (a weather spirit)
Mountain farming traditions that are centuries old

Cantabria’s cultural identity is distinct, rustic, and deeply connected to nature.

9. The Region Is Filled With Over 6,500 Caves—One of the Highest Densities in the World

Cantabria is sometimes called the “Land of Caves”, and for good reason. The region contains more than 6,500 known caves, many of which hold archaeological treasures, underground rivers, and impressive geological formations.

Famous caves include:

Cueva del Soplao – known for its unusual helictite formations
Cueva de El Castillo – with some of the oldest known cave art (over 40,000 years old)
Cueva de Covalanas – home to vivid red deer silhouettes

Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, an adventurer, or a history lover, Cantabria’s caves offer limitless exploration possibilities.

10. Cantabria Offers the Perfect Blend of Quiet Nature & Easy Accessibility

Despite its rugged landscapes and rural charm, Cantabria is surprisingly accessible.

The Santander Airport offers flights from major European cities.
A well-connected train and road network links towns, beaches, and mountains.
Ferries connect Santander to the UK (Plymouth, Portsmouth), making it a gateway for many northern European travelers.

Compared to other tourist-heavy Spanish regions, Cantabria remains peaceful, uncrowded, and authentic—a huge appeal for travelers seeking real cultural immersion.

Final Thoughts: Why Cantabria Should Be Your Next Destination

Cantabria is a region where history, nature, and culture intertwine beautifully. From prehistoric caves and green mountains to medieval towns and world-class beaches, it offers something for every traveler.

Whether you're:

a nature enthusiast
a foodie
a history lover
a quiet traveler
or a culture seeker

Cantabria delivers experiences that are rich, authentic, and unforgettable.

If you're planning a trip to Spain, make sure Cantabria is high on your list—you may just discover one of Europe’s most magical hidden gems.