10-Day Cantabria & Asturias Tour Packages
Insider tips: Recommended 10-day Cantabria & Asturias tour itineraries
Compiled by
MelissaCantabria & Asturias travel expert at TourRadar
9 Day Northern Spain Itinerary, incl. Bilbao and Ribadesella
The dramatic Cantabrian and Asturian coasts unfold over 9 days, with nights spent in charming fishing villages like Santoña and Llanes. Cyclists ride past the Sierra de Cuera mountains and through Colombres' indianos villas. A highlight includes visiting the unique landlocked Gulpiyuri beach near Ribadesella.
- Day 1
Bilbao
Begin your journey in Bilbao's Old Quarter (Casco Viejo). Visit the Guggenheim Museum right when it opens at 9 AM to avoid crowds. Book your tickets online to skip the lines. End your day exploring the authentic pintxos bars in Plaza Nueva, which offer a more local experience than the newer parts of town.
- Day 2
Bilbao to Castro Urdiales (40 km)
Cycle along the Nervión River past the Guggenheim. Cross the UNESCO-listed Puente Vizcaya, a historic transporter bridge. Plan your crossing between 10 AM and noon when it's less busy. A fellow traveler shares: "The route along the coast to Castro Urdiales was well-marked and the views of the Bay of Biscay were incredible. Pack a windbreaker—the sea breeze can be strong even on sunny days."
- Day 3
Castro to Santoña (35 km)
Watch for griffon vultures soaring above the cliffs at Sonabia. Take the ferry to Santoña but consider motion sickness pills if needed. Visit the local markets between 8-10 AM to see the morning's fresh catch and try the famous local anchovies.
- Day 4
Santoña to Santander (46 km)
Take a scenic boat ride from Pedreña to Santander. Time your arrival at Somo Beach during low tide for better cycling conditions on the sand. Visit the Magdalena Peninsula around 7 PM for the best sunset views over the bay.
- Day 5
Santander to Santillana del Mar (54 km)
The longest cycling day follows parts of the Camino de Santiago. Be careful on the River Besaya bike path if it's wet. Explore Santillana del Mar's medieval streets in the evening after the tourist crowds leave.
- Day 6
Santillana del Mar to San Vicente de la Barquera (36 km)
Ride through Novales' lemon groves and stop at Comillas to visit Gaudí's El Capricho in the afternoon for optimal photos. The Natural Park of Oyambre offers excellent photo spots but watch out for strong coastal winds.
- Day 7
San Vicente de la Barquera to Llanes (47 km)
Enter Asturias through Unquera and visit the indianos mansions in Colombres. A cyclist notes: "The descent through eucalyptus forests was magical, but keep your speed in check—the path can have loose gravel." Take breaks at Gulpiyuri and Torimbia beaches on your way to Llanes.
- Day 8
Llanes to Ribadesella (44 km)
Your final full cycling day combines coastal scenery with views of the Picos de Europa mountains. Visit Gulpiyuri beach early before the crowds arrive. Celebrate in Ribadesella with traditional sidra, poured from high above the glass in local style.
- Day 9
Ribadesella
The tour ends after breakfast. If returning to Bilbao, book the ALSA bus ahead of time due to limited bike storage. Morning buses usually have fewer passengers.
8 Day Northern Spain Itinerary, incl. Picos de Europa and Bilbao
Your 8-day adventure takes you through Sotres, Potes, and Bulnes. The 96km trek includes the dramatic Cares Gorge and Naranjo de Bulnes ascent. Family-run Hotel Rural Casa Cipriano provides local cuisine and comfortable accommodation.
- Day 1
Bilbao to Sotres
Arrive at Bilbao Airport by 11:30 AM for the group transfer. The 3-hour drive takes you to Sotres, Asturias' highest village. Your home base will be the welcoming Hotel Rural Casa Cipriano. Start your trip with an orientation and welcome dinner featuring local Asturian dishes like Fabada bean stew.
- Days 2-3
Eastern Massif & Naranjo de Bulnes
Two challenging hiking days await you. The first is an 18km trek through the eastern massif up to Caseton de Andara at 1,725m where you'll see coastal views. The next day takes you on the famous Naranjo de Bulnes route. This 16km trail includes an 800m climb. You'll need walking poles for steep sections and plenty of water even on cool days.
- Day 4
Tresviso to Potes
Walk down through beech forests to medieval Potes on this 10km trail with a 1,150m descent. Good hiking boots and ankle support are essential. Consider knee braces if you have joint concerns. Spend your free evening exploring Potes' old bridges and stone buildings. August groups stay in Sotres due to limited rooms in Potes.
- Day 5
Fuente Dé & Aliva Valley
A cable car lifts you 1,000m for spectacular mountain views. One hiker shared: "The cable car ride and subsequent walk down the Aliva Valley was breathtaking - bring a camera but also watch your step on the alpine meadow trails." Your 18km walk back to Sotres passes old mines along mostly downhill paths.
- Day 6
Cares Gorge
This 24km round trip through the incredible Cares Gorge is a trip highlight. The path cuts through cliffs over 1,000m high. Start early to avoid crowds and heat. Bring a headlamp for tunnels. The path is well-maintained but requires comfort with heights. "The Cares Gorge was stunning but you need a head for heights."
- Day 7
La Caballar & Cheese Tasting
A more relaxed 10km walk visits shepherd huts and includes tasting the local Cabrales blue cheese in Tielve. Join the optional farewell dinner (€25) with regional foods and wines. The hotel owners often share local stories and history during dinner.
- Day 8
Return to Bilbao
Leave in the morning for Bilbao Airport, arriving by 11:30 AM. Book flights after 1:30 PM to allow enough transfer time.
8 Days in Northern Spain, incl. Santillana del Mar and Picos de Europa
Cantabria's coast and mountains beckon during seven nights from Santillana del Mar through the Miera Valley. Marvel at Gaudi's El Capricho in Comillas, soar on the Fuente Dé cable car, and wander Liérganes' historic quarter. Daily 35-mile rides offer panoramic views of Picos de Europa and Atlantic beaches.
- Day 1
Santillana del Mar
Begin your adventure in the medieval village of Santillana del Mar. Get your bike fitted and spend time exploring the cobblestone streets or visiting the Altamira Caves Museum. Try to arrive early to give yourself 2-3 hours in the village. The afternoon light is perfect for photographing the historic buildings.
- Day 2
Santillana del Mar to San Vicente de la Barquera (36-62 km)
Ride along the coast through Novales' lemon groves and stop in the seaside town of Comillas. Make sure to visit El Capricho, one of Gaudí's architectural works. You can choose between two routes through Oyambre Natural Park: an easier 36km path or a more challenging 62km route. Bring windproof clothing since afternoon coastal breezes can be strong.
- Day 3
San Vicente de la Barquera
Take a day to explore this charming fishing village or bike to nearby Carmona. Local restaurants serve excellent fresh seafood, including the regional favorite calamares en su tinta (squid in ink sauce). If you want more cycling, there are additional routes through the surrounding hills.
- Day 4
San Vicente to Potes (56 km)
Start along the coast before heading inland through the impressive La Hermida gorge. The 56km route gains elevation gradually but stays manageable. Pack extra layers since temperature differences between the coast and mountains can be significant.
- Day 5
Potes and Picos de Europa
Take the Fuente Dé cable car for stunning mountain views. The route to Santo Toribio Monastery includes some climbs but offers incredible scenery. Serious cyclists can tackle more challenging roads around Picos de Europa. Always check weather forecasts as mountain conditions can shift quickly.
- Day 6
Miera Valley to Somo (44 km)
After your morning transfer to the mountains, enjoy a mostly downhill ride through Rio Miera's limestone valley. Take time to explore Liérganes' historic quarter and sample local pastries. End your day in Somo with beautiful views of Santander Bay.
- Day 7
Somo
Relax on Somo's golden beach or take a short boat trip to Santander. Visit the El Sardinero beach area to see its Belle Époque architecture, once a favorite among Spanish royalty. Optional bike routes lead to Loredo and Langre beaches. Plan morning rides before afternoon winds pick up.
- Day 8
Departure
Leave early from Somo to reach Santander (15 minutes), Bilbao (75 minutes), or Torrelavega. Book afternoon flights to avoid morning traffic, especially from Bilbao Airport.
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