38 km | 10-13 hours | +872m / -803m
The longest stage on the Norte at 38 kilometres, crossing from Santander to the perfectly preserved medieval village of Santillana del Mar. The distance is the main challenge rather than elevation, though the stage is long enough to be exhausting.
The route leaves Santander through suburban areas before entering coastal and rural terrain. The walking passes through small Cantabrian villages and farmland with views of the Cantabrian mountains to the south. The approach to Santillana del Mar is through increasingly picturesque countryside.
Santillana del Mar is often called the 'prettiest village in Spain,' a perfectly preserved medieval ensemble of golden stone mansions, cobbled streets, and a stunning Romanesque collegiate church. The nearby Altamira Cave (with its replica museum) contains some of the world's finest prehistoric paintings. Good services and accommodation are available.
Terrain: Urban exit, coastal paths, rural roads, gentle hills, village cobblestones
The elegant capital of Cantabria, set on a beautiful bay with beaches, a Gothic cathedral, the Botin Centre for contemporary art, and excellent seafood restaurants.
Often called the 'prettiest village in Spain', a remarkably preserved medieval town with cobblestoned streets, noble mansions, and the UNESCO-listed Romanesque Collegiate Church. Near the Altamira cave paintings.
2 places to stay between Santander and Santillana del Mar
Accommodation at the start of this stage (useful for booking the night before)
No accommodation options available
Accommodation at the end of this stage
No accommodation options available
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