Barcena Mayor and Carmona Tour from Santander Small Groups

Santander , Spain

Barcena Mayor and Carmona Tour from Santander Small Groups

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About this experience

This half-day tour will take you to discover two charming villages in Cantabria, Carmona and Bárcena Mayor. These inland villages are also Historic-Artistic Complex and are included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

We will travel from Santander, through the Nansa Valley until we reach the village of Carmona, where its mountain architecture, with cobblestone streets, stone houses and monuments such as the church of San Roque, falls in love with all visitors.

Next, we will head to Bárcena Mayor, located in a dreamy setting in the Saja-Besaya Natural Park. Bárcena is also famous for its typical rural architecture and traditional restaurants. Here we will take a walk through its most emblematic streets and have some free time to enjoy this environment.

Along the way, we will also learn about the traditions and history of these charming villages.

Available options

Barcena Mayor and Carmona Tour from Santander Small Groups

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Guide

Detailed itinerary

First we will visit the town of Carmona, which nestled in the Nansa Valley and surrounded by a stunning green landscape, will captivate you because it is a town that retains its historical essence, with cobblestone streets, stone houses, tarpaulins and gable roofs that seem to have been taken from another time. Its rich history and traditions are reflected in the mountain architecture of its iconic buildings such as the parish church of San Roque, the palace of Los Mier and other monuments.

Later we will head towards Bárcena Mayor, which is located in an almost magical setting in the Saja-Besaya Natural Park and surrounded by forests and mountains, is one of the best exponents of Cantabrian rural architecture. Its iconic bridge, palaces and stone houses, some with slate roofs, will transport you to a fairytale. Here, contact with nature is absolute, offering you a pure and serene environment that together with its unrivalled landscape seems to come out of a story. In Bárcena Mayor we will walk through its most emblematic streets and houses, and finally have some free time to enjoy its local cuisine or the tranquility and landscapes that its unique environment gives you.

Throughout the excursion, you will learn about the histories and traditions of these villages while enjoying the bucolic landscapes that this area of Cantabria gives us.

What's not included

Lunch

drink and food

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Santander

Santander is a picturesque coastal city in northern Spain, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historic architecture. Nestled along the Bay of Biscay, it offers a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

Top Attractions

Palacio de la Magdalena

This historic palace was built in the early 20th century and served as the summer residence of the Spanish royal family. It now houses a university and is open for guided tours.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €5-10

Playa del Sardinero

One of Santander's most famous beaches, known for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico

This maritime museum showcases the rich maritime history and biodiversity of the Cantabrian Sea. It features exhibits on marine life, fishing, and shipbuilding.

Museum 1-2 hours €5-8

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rabo de Toro

A rich and flavorful stew made with oxtail, vegetables, and red wine.

Dinner Contains beef

Anchoas

Salted and cured anchovies, often served on bread or as a topping for tapas.

Snack Contains fish

Quesada Pasiega

A traditional cheesecake made with local cheese, eggs, and sugar.

Dessert Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Surfing Kayaking Beach lounging Spas Yoga Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long sunny days, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

18°C to 24°C 64°F to 75°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Santander is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Santander Airport • 4 km from city center
Bilbao Airport • 100 km from Santander

By train

Santander Train Station

By bus

Santander Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is an affordable and efficient way to get around. Buses are frequent and well-connected.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

El Sardinero Centro Puertochico

Day trips

Cabo Mayor

3 km from Santander • Half day

A scenic coastal area with beautiful cliffs, lighthouses, and walking trails offering stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.

Comillas

40 km from Santander • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its historic sites, including the stunning El Capricho de Gaudí, a unique mansion designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí.

Cuevas de Altamira

30 km from Santander • Half day to full day

A world-famous prehistoric cave known for its stunning cave paintings, which are considered some of the finest examples of Upper Paleolithic art.

Festivals

Festival Internacional de Santander • July to August Semana Grande • Second week of August Christmas and New Year's Celebrations • December to January

Pro tips

Visit the beaches early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos
Try local seafood dishes, such as anchovies and hake, which are a staple of Cantabrian cuisine
Explore the city's historic sites, such as the Palacio de la Magdalena and the Catedral de Santander, to gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history
Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Comillas or the Cuevas de Altamira, to experience more of the region's natural and cultural beauty
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Festival Internacional de Santander or Semana Grande, to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture