Santander → Santillana del Mar

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.