Looking for a seaside town with history, beaches and great food? In this guide to the best things to do in San Vicente de la Barquera, we take you from its stunning beaches to historical monuments, exploring the most charming corners of one of the most beautiful seaside towns in Cantabria.
Let yourself be carried away by the magic of its medieval stories as you wander through its streets, or feel as though you have found paradise when you step onto its idyllic beaches. Furthermore, we reveal a unique spot where you can make that wish for the new year, hoping it comes true.
This tour of San Vicente de la Barquera immerses you in the beauty of a town that is an emblem of northern Spain. Nestled in the Oyambre Natural Park and caressed by the waters of one of the most important Cantabrian estuaries, the Ría de San Vicente.
t is a historic town that harmonizes a medieval legacy with a bustling fishing port, wrapped in a landscape where dreamlike beaches, crystal-clear coves, green meadows, and salt marshes define the soul of Cantabria.
Although it is feasible to explore its gems in a single day, we encourage you to extend your stay to be bewitched by its beauty at sunset, its vibrant nightlife, and the natural and cultural wonders you will find just a step away.
San Vicente de la Barquera is pure magic, a charming meeting point between the sea, the mountains, and history, making it a mandatory stop in Cantabria that promises to brighten your trip at any time of the year!
Imagine yourself enjoying the warm summer sun on its beaches or immersing yourself in the rich culture and venturing along mountain trails in winter.
With the breathtaking Picos de Europa decorating the horizon and surrounded by other wonderful destinations in the region, we invite you with all our heart to discover the treasures of this Cantabrian jewel.
Come and let yourself be captivated by San Vicente de la Barquera; unforgettable experiences await you!
Also read: 10 essential tips for traveling to Cantabria
Before your trip to San Vicente de la Barquera
Before you go, don’t forget to get travel insurance with IATI (5% discount for Glutendtrotters readers) and, if you are arriving from outside Spain, activate a Holafly eSIM (also with a 5% discount for you) so you have data from the first minute. And to move freely between San Vicente, Comillas and the Oyambre beaches, you can rent a car.
1. A Crossroads
Have you ever wondered about the most iconic pilgrimage routes that pass through San Vicente de la Barquera? Well, it turns out that this picturesque town is a crossroads for two of the most significant Christian routes in the world, which we find fascinating.
On one hand, we have the Camino de Santiago, following its Northern route, and on the other, the Camino Lebaniego, which begins precisely in San Vicente and heads toward the iconic monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana.
San Vicente’s strategic position as a meeting point for pilgrims is reflected in the presence of a cozy hostel located in the historic Puebla Vieja, along with various signs guiding travelers. This crossroads, where the Camino Lebaniego and the Camino de Santiago converge, gives San Vicente a unique atmosphere, steeped in stories and encounters.
Glutendtrotters Tip
We recommend this guided tour of San Vicente de la Barquera to discover all its beauty and history with an expert guide.
2. Fishing Port
San Vicente de la Barquera is a charming town whose soul and life are intimately linked to the sea, with fishing being its main economic source since ancient times. We highly recommend taking a walk through the Fishing Port, located just after the picturesque Puebla Vieja. Here, among active fishing boats and recreational vessels, you can feel the genuine pulse of maritime tradition.
Let yourself be carried away by adventure and cross the Barquera Bridge! As you do, you will find scenes worthy of a postcard: the imposing Brazo Mayor and the majestic Castle of the King will surprise you, offering a dreamlike landscape. It is a magical journey where, instead of dragons, you will discover the unique charm of the port and the lively atmosphere of the fish market.
Note: It is important not to confuse this with the famous La Maza Bridge. The Barquera Bridge, with its 9 arches, is a more modest construction that connects the old town to the maritime port.
For social media lovers in search of that perfect “Instagrammable post,” the Promenade has a very special surprise in store: the iconic giant letters. This trend, which has taken several Cantabrian towns by storm, is worn with special pride by San Vicente. Do not miss the opportunity to capture this moment with the estuary and the bridge as a backdrop, creating an unforgettable memory of the magic that surrounds this place.
3. Puebla Vieja (Old Town)
After walking through the heart of the town, be sure to visit the Pilgrim’s Gate. It is the ideal starting point to delve into the historic center of San Vicente de la Barquera, inviting you to discover its secrets and beauties with every step you take. Prepare for a memorable experience in this corner full of history, culture, and maritime charm.
San Vicente de la Barquera is a charm divided into two wonderful sections! First, the Puebla Vieja, where the historical and tourist heart of the town beats, full of treasures and views that will take your breath away. Then, there is the lively lower area, home to the bustling fishing port, the luminous Plaza Mayor del Fuero, and the busy Avenida de Antonio Garelly with a delicious selection of restaurants that promise to delight your palate.
4. Castle of the King
This majestic medieval castle is a must-visit in San Vicente de la Barquera, and for good reason. Recognized as a Site of Cultural Interest, it has guarded the town since the 12th century, standing as one of the most significant defensive monuments in our region.
But the Castle of the King is much more than a historical monument; it is a vibrant cultural center, thanks to meticulous restoration that invites us to explore its rooms filled with stories and secrets. Here, among cannons, maps, and ancient documents, you will discover the importance of this castle commissioned by Alfonso VIII.
Located at a strategic point in the town, it offers spectacular views of the Brazo Mayor of the San Vicente Estuary, capturing the true essence of its mission. Its pentagonal tower, of singular elegance, provides you with a unique perspective of the coastal landscape, making you part of a historical moment.
Therefore, the Castle of the King not only stands out for its impressive architecture and incomparable views but also for its role as a cultural epicenter. It is a true gem that promises to make your visit to San Vicente de la Barquera an unforgettable experience. So don’t miss the opportunity to walk along its walls and let yourself be carried away by the history that pulsates in every corner of this iconic monument.
5. Palace of the Family del Corro
As you enter the heart of the Puebla Vieja, following the path of the Calle Alta, you will encounter a cobblestone path that will guide you through the most iconic monuments of San Vicente de la Barquera. This walk immerses you in the history and charm of the town.
Within the same historic neighborhood, and facing the Tower of the Provost, stands the Renaissance palace of the Inquisitor Corro, which today serves as the City Hall. It was in the 16th century when Antonio del Corro, a renowned inquisitor, decided to erect this palace. His vision was to create a hospital that would provide refuge and care to the needy sickand the pilgrims of the Camino de Santiago arriving in the town.
What is most striking about this building is its façade, a spectacular example of the Plateresque style. It features two heraldic shields belonging to the founder’s family, immersing visitors in the depth of its historical and artistic legacy.
6. Tower of the Provost
Just in front of the Palace, in the heart of the Puebla Vieja, stands an imposing 13th-century tower. This building is not only a key component of the historical-artistic heritage of the town, but it also played a vital role in its defense, being connected to the well-known Gate of La Barrera or Santander.
Throughout the centuries, the tower has had various uses, from serving as the main tax collection point during the Middle Ages to functioning as a prison. Currently, it has been transformed into an essential cultural space for San Vicente de la Barquera, housing temporary exhibitions that enrich its cultural offering and attract both residents and visitors.
7. Fortified Medieval Town
In the past, San Vicente de la Barquera was completely surrounded by walls, with the castle and other fortifications serving as its primary means of defense.
Today, remnants of these ancient walls can still be seen in various areas of the Puebla Vieja. Additionally, several of the original gates that gave access to the fortified city remain standing, including the Pilgrim’s Gate, the La Barrera Gate(also known as the Santander Gate), and the Sea Gate, the latter of which was recently restored.
The most prominent place to see the remnants of the walls is in the upper area of the Puebla Vieja, near the Church Viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy an impressive view while contemplating the city’s historical legacy.
8. Church of Santa María de los Ángeles
This temple, which was most likely built on the foundations of an earlier church and expanded over the centuries from the 13th to the 16th, represents a magnificent example of regional Gothic architecture.
With the arrival of the 16th century, an expansion phase began that included the addition of side chapels, among other improvements. Its three-nave structure reflects the economic boom the town experienced during that era. In 1931, the temple was officially recognized as a Site of Cultural Interest.
Visiting this temple is embarking on a journey that goes beyond admiring its main entrance; it is an invitation to explore its entire perimeter, where its magnificent Gothic style, two Romanesque-influenced doors, and an interior that simply fascinates are revealed.
Inside its walls, there is an impressive sculpture of the crucified Christ and a Baroque altarpiece, but it is the Renaissance tomb of Antonio del Corro, a famous inquisitor, that truly captures one’s attention. This is found in one of the minor chapels and is praised as the most sublime funerary piece in the region, and even in Spain. The statue of the Inquisitor, lying on his tomb and absorbed in reading a book, radiates unwavering peace.
Beyond its undeniable heritage value, the temple’s location is in itself a wonder. Situated at the top of a rocky promontory, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and even the majestic Picos de Europa. This site, next to a wide esplanade where the sections of the wall are best preserved, further enhances the beauty and historical significance of this place.
9. Hospital of the Conception
For centuries, San Vicente de la Barquera has been a key stage on the coastal pilgrimage route toward Santiago de Compostela. A testament to its importance is the Old Hospital of the Conception, which in the 16th century provided shelter to numerous pilgrims. These travelers, on their journey westward, entered the city through the Pilgrim’s Gate, thus marking their passage through this iconic place.
Currently, only the main façade of the Hospital of the Conception remains, as the rest of the building lies in ruins. This destination, which was once a vital point on the coastal route of the Camino de Santiago, housed several hospitals and shelters dedicated to pilgrims.
Travelers not only found a place to rest and recover but also inscribed themselves in the long history of devotion and faith that characterizes the Camino de Santiago.
Have you thought about the wish you are going to make? It’s your moment!
10. La Maza Bridge
Surrounded by a mystical aura, the La Maza Bridge is known as the Bridge of Wishes. According to a charming local legend, those who cross it without breathing will see their wishes come true, giving the bridge a special place in the hearts of those who visit it and highlighting it as one of the most captivating monuments in Cantabria.
Built in the 15th century on the foundations of an earlier wooden structure, this impressive example of medieval engineering, at its peak with 32 arches, was considered one of the longest bridges in the kingdom. Currently, the La Maza Bridge and its 28 semicircular arches are not only iconic of the old Kingdom of Castile but also a distinctive symbol of the town.
Walking across the La Maza Bridge is highly recommended for those visiting San Vicente de la Barquera, as it provides direct access to its beautiful beaches and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views. At the other end of the bridge, La Maza beach awaits you, distinguished by being the only beach in the municipality open to dogs.
Reconstructed during the era of Charles III, the bridge spans half a kilometer, crossing the San Vicente estuary to the entrance of the town. Today, it remains a silent witness to the wishes and dreams of those who cross it, inviting everyone to be part of its rich history.
11. Convent of San Luis
Although its golden age is now history, this place maintains its charm and magic, making it a must-visit in San Vicente de la Barquera. Located near the La Maza Bridge, this small historical treasure displays its Gothic architecture, wrapped in a blanket of greenery that makes it even more special. With that unmistakable Franciscan air, it invites us on an imaginary journey to past times.
Curious to discover it? You have the chance! Visit the Tourist Office and request a guided tour, available from April to October, except in August. It is the perfect occasion to explore its mysteries.
Established in the 15th century by visionary Franciscans and remodeled in the next, this convent still gifts us views of its past grandeur. Its firm walls, majestic apses, ambitious vaults, and Gothic arches are a portal to another time, complemented by dreamlike vegetation and trees that capture the sight and the soul.
This site has not only welcomed distinguished figures like Charles I, who stayed here in 1517 on his way to his coronation, but it was also recognized as a Site of Cultural Interest in 1992, a well-deserved honor for a place so full of history and beauty.
12. Sanctuary of the Barquera
According to an ancient legend, some sailors witnessed the mysterious arrival of a ship without oars or crew, carrying only the Virgin of the Barquera on board.
This temple, situated in a charming corner at the entrance to the port, commemorates the miraculous appearance of the Virgin, an event that motivated the construction of a sanctuary in her honor in the 15th century. Inside, homage is paid to the image of the Virgin, an object of profound veneration.
The La Folía festival, which commemorates this event, is widely recognized in the region for its great popularity. Originating from the “flowery Tuesday,” this festivity remembers the time when the Virgin was placed in a boat devoid of crew and sails, miraculously guiding the sailors by marking the wind direction.
Currently, the image of the Virgin is adorned with a splendid floral arrangement, and a maritime procession is held, a tradition that has been declared of National Tourist Interest.
This sanctuary is not only a testament of faith but also an ideal starting point to visit other attractions in San Vicente de la Barquera, such as the La Barra Breakwater. This stone breakwater offers spectacular views of the cliffs, the mouth of the estuary, and Merón beach, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds this historic town.
13. Punta Silla Lighthouse
This charming lighthouse, considered one of the most beautiful in Cantabria, began guiding Cantabrian ships in 1871, marking one of the first instances of coastal illumination during the reign of Isabella II. Inside, it houses a fascinating interpretation center dedicated to the Oyambre Natural Park, which can be accessed free of charge.
Additionally, this lighthouse has earned a place in the European “At Light” initiative (Atlantic Lighthouses), thanks to the efforts of the Club of Tourism Excellence Municipalities. The goal is to give it a purpose that combines public and tourist use, thus expanding its appeal and historical-cultural value.
Sorry for those who don’t have one, but here… there is a beach!
Also read: Route through the lighthouses of Cantabria
14. Beaches of the Oyambre Natural Park
In the heart of the Oyambre Natural Park, beaches are hidden that are a true natural treasure. This area, famous for its impressive diversity of landscapes, houses a collection of sandy areas and dunes that will leave you speechless. Let us take you on a tour from the beaches closest to San Vicente de la Barquera to those a little further away, all of them postcard-worthy.
La Maza and El Tostadero Beach
We begin our trip with these coastal twins, bathed by calm waters and located at the mouth of the San Vicente estuary. They are perfect for bathers and stand out for their proximity to the urban center. Additionally, La Maza has the honor of being one of the few dog-friendly beaches in Cantabria, making it the ideal starting point for our beach tour.
Merón Beach
A stone’s throw from the historic center, crossing the La Maza Bridge, we find this extensive 3.5-kilometer beach. Its crescent shape and vast space ensure a spot in the sand for everyone, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors and a paradise for surfers.
Gerra Beach
Moving a little further, we arrive at Gerra Beach. With a kilometer of virgin sand and surf that attracts surfers from all over the world, this beach offers a unique view of San Vicente de la Barquera from a maritime perspective. Its wild nature and challenging waves place it on the list of the best beaches not only in Cantabria but in Spain.
Oyambre Beach
Following the coast, we find the beach that lends its name to the park, the imposing Oyambre Beach. This extensive 2-kilometer strip of sand, flanked by dunes and beginning at the mouth of the Rabía estuary, represents one of the most vibrant ecosystems in Cantabria. Its bucolic beauty and ideal conditions for surfing make it stand out as an unmissable destination.
Fuentes Beach
Finally, to the west of San Vicente, we find the charming Fuentes Beach. Part of the Oyambre Natural Park, this beach is distinguished by its tranquility away from the crowds. The perfect place to rest after a long day of sightseeing.
From the golden sands and calm waters near the urban heart to the vast sandy areas that blend with the horizon, each beach on our route offers a unique experience, uniting natural majesty with the adventurous spirit of surfing and the tranquility of less crowded spaces.
15. Hiking and Nature
An excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of San Vicente de la Barquera and its surroundings, allowing you to live a unique experience in contact with nature, is to complete one of the following hiking routes:
Nansa River Trail
For those looking for an accessible route near San Vicente de la Barquera, ideal for enjoying with children, we recommend the Nansa River Trail. This route extends from Muñorrodero to the Trascudia Hydroelectric Power Plant. It is a linear trail of approximately 14 kilometers (round trip), which runs parallel to the Nansa River, with very little incline and is part of a stage of the Camino Lebaniego. It also ends at a cascading pool ideal for a dip.
San Vicente Cliffs Route
This route is a simple and rewarding option that takes you along the western coast of San Vicente, from the town to the spectacular Fuentes cove, and returns through the interior, crossing dense vegetation and offering views of the Picos de Europa. If you prefer a shorter route, you can adapt it to your liking.
Additionally, there is a variant of this route that starts at Berellín beach, another beautiful sandy area near Fuentes beach.
16. Where to eat gluten-free in San Vicente de la Barquera
San Vicente is a true paradise for lovers of seafood and fish. Near the port, you will find a wide variety of places to savor the exquisite gastronomy of Cantabria.
El Bodegón Restaurant
This place ranks among the top ten in San Vicente de la Barquera and stands out for its gluten-free options. Although we haven’t had the opportunity to try it yet, it promises a memorable culinary experience. It is also listed among the San Vicente restaurants with gluten-free options on the official Cantabria tourism website.
El Pescador Restaurant
Located on Avenida del Generalísimo, this bar is listed in the Celicidad gluten-free restaurant directory. According to that directory, they serve gluten-free beer and dishes that are naturally gluten-free, such as unbreaded fish and seafood. However, they have no dedicated gluten-free menu or gluten-free bread, so if you are celiac, let them know when ordering and confirm what is on offer before you go. We haven’t tried it ourselves.
Regma Ice Cream Parlor
Don’t forget to save room to enjoy their delicious ice creams, also available for celiacs. Even if you can’t eat the cone, the ice cream in a cup is totally worth it. This ice cream parlor is an emblem in Cantabria.
Rayo Verde Bar
To top off a perfect day in San Vicente and its surroundings, we suggest visiting this bar to enjoy an unforgettable sunset. In recent years, it has become a reference for excellent reasons. Located at the top of a hill, it offers privileged views of Merón Beach and San Vicente, and on clear days, it is even possible to spot the Picos de Europa on the horizon.
Also read: Where to eat gluten-free in Cantabria
Also read: Cantabria and Gastronomy: a tour of the best dishes and products
17. Exploring the Culture and Folklore of Cantabria
Each of these events not only celebrates local traditions but also invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culture and vibrant folklore of Cantabria.
La Folia: This event, which has been recognized of National Tourist Interest, takes place two Sundays after Easter, always adjusting to the tidal calendar. Its most distinctive element is the maritime procession of the Virgin of the Barquera, a spectacle in which all the boats in the port participate, creating a memorable sight.
La Barquera and El Mozucu: These celebrations take place on September 7th, 8th, and 9th and are full of popular activities. During these days, attendees can enjoy sorropotún, a typical dish of the region.
The sorropotún, a stew that combines tuna, onion, pepper, tomato, and potatoes, was traditionally prepared to feed sailors during long fishing days, thus reflecting part of the history and maritime tradition of San Vicente de la Barquera.El Carmen Festivals: Celebrated around July 16th, these festivals are characterized by their numerous dances and the traditional sardine roasts (sardinadas), an event that brings the community together around local music and gastronomy.
National Sea Song Contest: Celebrated in the first week of July, this festival is one of the most important and traditional choral gatherings in Spain, highlighting the musical richness and choral tradition of the region.
18. How to get to San Vicente de la Barquera
To explore the beautiful Cantabria at your own pace, we recommend traveling by car, which allows you to completely customize your route. The A-8 highway connects San Vicente de la Barquera with the main cities of northern Spain, offering a direct and comfortable route.
For those who prefer a scenic alternative, the national road N-634 runs parallel to the highway, providing picturesque views of the landscape. Although there is bus service in the region, having your own vehicle gives you unparalleled freedom to discover every corner in your own way.
If you choose to arrive by train, the closest station is La Acebosa, on the line that connects Santander with Oviedo.
Did you want more? Of course! Cantabria has so much to offer, and we are your perfect guides to show it all to you.
19. What to visit near San Vicente de la Barquera
Discover the Coastal and Cultural Treasures near San Vicente de la Barquera, organized from the closest to the farthest:
A step away from San Vicente
Berellín Beach: Heading toward the west, we run into this small cove with crystal-clear waters, a charming corner also known as Prellezo Beach.
Beyond the Beaches: explorations and discoveries
Pechón Peninsula: Moving westward, this peninsula offers beaches with transparent waters, spectacular viewpoints, and the opportunity to enjoy paddle surfing in a tranquil environment.
El Soplao Cave: Heading into the interior, about 20 minutes by car, this cave is a natural spectacle of stalactites and stalagmites, and a must-visit point for geology lovers. Book your guided tour.
Also read: A mining adventure in El Soplao Cave
Also read: Explore El Chufín Cave in Cantabria
A little further, but worth every kilometer
Comillas: Toward the eastern coast, this town stands out for the Capricho de Gaudí, the Pontifical University, and the Sobrellano Palace, a compendium of art and architecture just 13 minutes by car away.
Also read: What to see in Comillas: 10 must-sees
Also read: Villapresente Maze: family fun
Cóbreces: About 8 kilometers from Comillas, this town offers impressive monuments and nature in its purest form, such as the Abbey of Santa María de Viaceli.
El Bolao Cliff: Close to Cóbreces, this place combines nature and history with its waterfall and abandoned mill, a photogenic setting full of magic.
Sequoia Forest: Near San Vicente, this forest transports you to a world of green giants without needing to cross the Atlantic.
Adventures in the heights: The Picos de Europa
Picos de Europa: If you are looking for mountain adventure, the Picos de Europa await you less than an hour away, offering everything from the Hermida Gorgeto the Fuente Dé Cable Car, with Potes as the gateway to this natural wonder.
Also read: Things to do in Potes
Discovering Living History
Santillana del Mar: Our tour concludes in this charming medieval town, a true cultural jewel just half an hour away by car. Here, the past becomes present in every corner, especially in its cobblestone streets. You cannot miss the impressive Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana and the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira, where archaeology enthusiasts will be fascinated by the so-called “Sistine Chapel” of cave art.
Also read: Things to do in Santillana del Mar
San Vicente de la Barquera is your starting point for an endless adventure, where every corner of Cantabria awaits you with stories, landscapes, and unique experiences.
Get ready to explore!
Do not put a full stop to this adventure yet! We invite you to fill your suitcase with dreams and wishes and set sail for San Vicente de la Barquera. Come discover that magical place where your dreams soar, in an environment where history intermingles with postcard-perfect natural landscapes and a rich culture that embraces you at every corner.
Are you looking for a quiet corner by the sea, to vibrate with local festivals, or to lose yourself in the whisper of history that inhabits its ancient walls?
San Vicente de la Barquera welcomes you with a smile and the promise of giving you memories that you will treasure forever.
Come on, it’s time to add San Vicente de la Barquera to your list of destinations to explore and immerse yourself in the wonder of this unique place! Get ready to live an experience that will make you rediscover Cantabria with new eyes and a heart full of joy.
We are waiting for you, Glutendtrotters!
How much time do you need to visit San Vicente de la Barquera?
You can see its highlights in a single day, but we recommend staying longer to enjoy its beauty at sunset, its lively nightlife, and the natural and cultural wonders just a short distance away.
How do you get to San Vicente de la Barquera?
We recommend travelling by car: the A-8 motorway connects San Vicente de la Barquera with the main cities of northern Spain, and the national road N-634 runs parallel to it as a more scenic alternative. If you prefer the train, the nearest station is La Acebosa, on the line between Santander and Oviedo. There is also bus service in the region.
What beaches are there in San Vicente de la Barquera?
The town sits inside the Oyambre Natural Park, where you will find La Maza and El Tostadero, Merón, Gerra, Oyambre and Fuentes beaches. A little further west is also the small cove of Berellín, also known as Prellezo Beach.
When is La Folia held in San Vicente de la Barquera?
La Folia, recognised as a Festival of National Tourist Interest, takes place two Sundays after Easter, always adjusted to the tide calendar. Its most distinctive feature is the maritime procession of the Virgin of La Barquera, in which all the boats in the port take part.
Where can you eat gluten-free in San Vicente de la Barquera?
El Bodegón Restaurant is listed with gluten-free options on the official Cantabria tourism website (we haven’t tried it ourselves yet). El Pescador bar appears in the Celicidad directory with gluten-free beer and naturally gluten-free dishes, such as unbreaded fish and seafood, although it has no dedicated gluten-free menu or gluten-free bread. If you are celiac, let them know when ordering and confirm the offer before you go, as small businesses can change.
What can you see near San Vicente de la Barquera?
Comillas is about 13 minutes away by car, with Gaudí’s Capricho, the Pontifical University and the Sobrellano Palace. Inland, about 20 minutes away, is El Soplao Cave with its stalactites and stalagmites, and to the west is the Pechón Peninsula, with clear-water beaches and viewpoints.
