Here is a destination that offers intact natural beauty and authentic charm, a hidden gem that invites you to discover another facet of Spain.
When you think of the holidays in Spain, the images of the crowded beaches of the Costa Brava, white houses of Andalusia or emblematic architectures from Gaudi to Barcelona immediately come to mind. For the better and for the worst, as the over-tourism threatens many places, especially on the coast and in the Balearic or Canaries Islands. However, there are still hidden nuggets, ignored by many tourists, who offer a unique and authentic experience.
Far from the bustle of the usual spots, northern Spain reveals unsuspected treasures. A coastal region, still spared by mass tourism, is full of natural but also cultural wonders which only ask to be explored. It is here that a preserved coast nestles, a coastal strip of about 50 kilometers which alternates between impressive cliffs, long beaches of golden sand and abundant natural reserves.
This little -known coast is the Costa Trastiera, in the heart of Cantabrie between the Santander dynamic and the small fisherman town of Santoña. Among the places not to be missed, let us quote the Linkcres dunes, a large natural park offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Gascogne, are a paradise for nature lovers.
Wild beaches like that of Langre, far from crowds, also invite relaxation and change of scenery. Semi-urban like those of Somo or Loredo, they offer a fair balance between tranquility and nearby services. The urban beaches of San Martín, in the heart of Santoña, are ideal for swimming before or after a visit to this charming town.
Santoña, famous for his tuna fishing, is also renowned for having one of the best gastronomies of Spanish seafood. Anchovies, a local specialty, are enjoyed fresh in the many restaurants in the port. From Pedreña oysters to Isla’s lobsters, gourmet will also be a party.
The Costa Trastiera is also a biodiversity setting with its marshes, refuges of migratory birds, and its green oaks forests hanging on the cliffs of El Buciero. To venture further, the Mountains of the Europa Picos, spectacular backdrop of coastal beauty, and the surrounding towns and villages, marked by a timeless Spain, call to continue the discovery of the Cantabrie region. Without the flashy of the more touristy coasts, the Costa Trasmeria will therefore seduce those who seek to discover a preserved Spain for a different travel experience, far from the beaten track.