Cantabria offers a surprising mix of nature, adventure, and culture that makes it stand out for tours and experiences. Whether you’re craving snowy mountain hikes, exciting via ferratas, or tasting local wines, this region has a lot to offer. A couple of favorites here include the Private Snowshoe Route in Picos de Europa for winter wonderland lovers and the Cantabria wine and liquor tasting for those wanting a flavorful taste of local tradition. We love how many tours blend regional scenery with authentic experiences—imagine snowshoeing amid breathtaking mountain vistas or sipping local gin after exploring historic villages. For a well-rounded list, we’ve picked the best options to suit different tastes and budgets, each with its unique charm.
Below, you’ll find a quick rundown of what types of tours made the cut, from snow adventures to cultural explorations, along with internal links for a seamless planning experience.
1. Private Snowshoe Route in Cantabria, Picos de Europa
All the equipment for this invigorating snowshoe adventure is provided by the operator—they do not rent gear to third parties, ensuring everything is in perfect condition. Led by qualified local guides with extensive experience in the Picos de Europa National Park, this tour begins at the upper station of the Fuente Dé cable car. The 4-hour route is perfect for those who want to enjoy the snow without the hassle of logistics, as the guides handle all details.
What makes this tour special is the focus on safety and personal attention, with guides sharing insights about the park’s geology and wildlife. The small-group size and high-quality gear make it a reliable choice for first-timers or snow lovers wanting a safe but authentic experience.
Good for: Winter enthusiasts, those looking for a guided, hassle-free snowshoe experience.
Bottom Line: A short, well-organized tour with excellent equipment and expert guides—ideal for a half-day winter escape.
2. Private Snowshoe Route to Cabaña Verónica in the Picos de Europa
If you want to delve deeper into the snow-covered beauty of the Picos de Europa, this 6.5-hour private snowshoe trip is a fantastic choice. The tour departs from the cable car stations, where the operators have exclusive facilities—this means no scrambling for meeting points or worrying about gear rentals. Guides are local experts who know the park intimately, sharing not just the route but also stories about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology.
The route leads you to the iconic Cabaña Verónica, one of the most photographed spots in the park, offering panoramic views that are worth every step. The tour is designed for those who want a safer, more comprehensive snow experience and learn about the area’s natural history.
Good for: Experienced snowshoers, nature buffs, and those wanting a full, in-depth snow adventure.
Bottom Line: A well-paced, insightful trek that combines stunning scenery with expert guidance—perfect for serious snow lovers.
3. Ramales de la Victoria, Via Ferrata of Caliz, Initiation
Looking for your first via ferrata? This 2-hour initiation route at Ramales de la Victoria is just right. Rated as an easy introduction, the Caliz route features about 120 meters of vertical drops and a series of climbing sections that combine safety with a thrill. The guides are fully qualified and bring years of experience, ensuring everyone’s safety while giving you a taste of real mountain climbing.
The highlight is the sense of achievement as you ascend the vertical wall, supported by iron rungs and cables, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Many reviews praise the friendly guides and the safety-first approach, making this accessible for beginners or families with kids (over 12).
Good for: First-time via ferrata climbers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a safe but memorable challenge.
Bottom Line: An adrenaline-packed intro to via ferrata climbing with stunning mountain scenery—great for trying out without a big commitment.
$70 per person
4. Half Day Climbing in Via Ferrata Socastillo
For a more challenging via ferrata experience, the Socastillo route offers vertical walls, clamps, and a suspension bridge—plus a striking landscape. This 3.5-hour adventure includes crossing a plank suspension bridge at the start and finish, providing a true alpine feel. The guides are experienced climbers who will teach you the basics before tackling the route, making it suitable for beginners with a good level of fitness.
Guests have raved about the scenery and the thrill of crossing the suspension bridge, especially at the entrance and exit. The route combines vertical climbs with rock supports, giving a comprehensive taste of via ferrata adventure. Expect a solid dose of adrenaline and excellent views.
Good for: Active travelers ready for a bit more challenge, families with older children, and those seeking a scenic, physical outing.
Bottom Line: A lively, scenic via ferrata that balances challenge with safety, perfect for those wanting a full mountain climbing experience.
$63.72 per person
5. Cantabria: Wine and Liquor Tasting Guided Tour with Snacks
For a change of pace, this wine and liquor tasting offers a flavorful glimpse into Cantabria’s local craftsmanship. Visiting an artisan distillery in Liebana, you’ll learn about the region’s wine and liquor-making traditions. Tasting includes a variety of wines—red, white, and sweet—and liquors such as Classic Gin, Tropical Gin, and Aguardiente de Malata.
The experience is complemented by local cheeses, jams, and cold meats, giving you a real taste of Cantabria’s culinary identity. Guides share insights into the production process and regional specialties, while the shop at the distillery allows you to buy your favorites. The tour is short—about an hour—but offers excellent value and a relaxed, informative environment.
Good for: Food-loving travelers, those interested in local products, and small groups seeking a taste of authentic Cantabrian flavors.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, well-priced tasting experience perfect for a quick cultural and culinary immersion.
6. Via Ferrata Stairway to Heaven in La Hermida
If you’re after a quick hit of adrenaline, the Stairway to Heaven via ferrata in La Hermida is just an hour long but packs a punch. With a K4 difficulty rating, it’s suitable for those with some climbing experience or good fitness. The route features steep sections, iron rungs, and a stunning backdrop of the Cantabrian mountains.
The guides are highly rated—they explain everything step-by-step, making it accessible for adventurous beginners. The spectacular views from the route’s high points make every upward move worthwhile. Many reviewers mention the enthusiasm and professionalism of the guides, adding to the safety and enjoyment of the experience.
Good for: Climbing enthusiasts, active travelers short on time, and beginners ready for a challenge.
Bottom Line: A short but intense via ferrata that offers spectacular scenery combined with expert guidance—great for a quick adrenaline boost.
7. Barcena Mayor and Carmona Tour from Santander Small Groups
For a cultural and scenic escape, this small-group tour takes you to two picturesque villages, Carmona and Bárcena Mayor. These towns showcase traditional rural mountain architecture and are recognized as Historic-Artistic Sites. The 5-hour tour starts with a pickup in Santander, then visits each village with time to explore their narrow streets, old stone houses, and local craft shops.
The guides share stories about the history and architecture, while the stunning forest and mountain scenery add to the experience. The tour includes transportation, making it easy to enjoy these sights without the hassle of driving. Reviewers especially appreciate the small group sizes, which make the experience more intimate and relaxed.
Good for: Culture lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and those wanting a scenic day trip.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable blend of history, scenery, and local charm, suitable for a relaxed day out.
$70 per person
8. From Bilbao: Villages of Cantabria Private Tour with Lunch
This full-day private tour from Bilbao combines scenic village visits with a delicious local meal. It takes you to Santillana del Mar, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, and Comillas, with its modernist buildings like Gaudí’s El Capricho. The highlight is the visit to Castro Urdiales, a traditional fishing village with a lively harbor.
The tour includes a stop for a hearty Cantabrian dish—El Cocido Montañes—made with local ingredients, offering a taste of regional cuisine. The trip is tailored for those who want a private, personalized experience with the comfort of direct transportation.
Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the flexibility of this private experience, making it ideal for families or couples.
Good for: Travelers seeking an all-in-one cultural and culinary day trip, with personalized service.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, private day tour perfect for exploring hallmark villages with a tasty local meal included.
$280 per person
9. Playa de la Arnía: UNESCO Costa Quebrada Private Tour
For nature lovers, this private tour showcases the striking Costa Quebrada coastline—20 km of dramatic cliffs and beaches stretching from Santander to Santa Justa. The tour focuses on some of the most interesting points along this UNESCO-listed site, with stops at scenic viewpoints and beaches for walks and photo opportunities.
Led by an official guide, this tour offers an intimate look at the geological features that earned Costa Quebrada its UNESCO designation. The private setup means you won’t be pressed with crowds, and the guide can tailor the stops to your interests. Expect lots of coastal scenery, rock formations, and a quiet, contemplative pace.
Good for: Nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a personalized coastal experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for discovering the raw beauty of Cantabria’s coast with expert guidance and flexibility.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Cantabria
Choosing between these options depends on your personal interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. For snow adventures, the Private Snowshoe Route in Picos de Europa offers a safe, scenic experience, especially if snow is your thing. If you prefer climbing, the via ferrata or the Stairway to Heaven provide thrilling, scenic challenges. For culture and culinary pursuits, the village visits and wine tasting are perfect options.
Always consider your fitness and adventure comfort level—some tours require physical activity, while others focus on sightseeing and tasting. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure spots for popular experiences like the snowshoe or private village tours.
Final Thoughts
Cantabria’s diverse landscape and rich culture shine through in these tours. If you’re after snowy mountain scenery, the snowshoe routes stand out—particularly the Cabaña Verónica. For a taste of local life, the guided village visits and wine tastings reveal the region’s authentic flavor. And for adrenaline junkies, the via ferratas deliver adventure with spectacular panoramic views.
No matter your interests, booking early ensures you’ll enjoy these memorable experiences at the best times of year. Take your pick, plan ahead, and get ready for a memorable trip to Cantabria.