Do you want your children to feel like Mary Lennox or Colin Craven in ‘The Secret Garden’? Do not hesitate—bring them to the Villapresente Maze. This network of cypress trees in Cantabria is a truly magical place to enjoy with children.
Although it is not the only maze in our country, it is one of the largest of its kind in Spain. Since 2017, this 5,625 m² Victorian maze has offered a unique experience for families to enjoy. From Easter until the Pilar festival, you can experience a very fun day with your loved ones.
🚗 Villapresente is in a rural part of Reocín, so the easiest way to get around is by car: compare options at Discover Cars.
🛡️ We never travel without IATI travel insurance (5% off for Glutendtrotters readers), essential for any trip.
📶 And if you’re coming from outside Spain, a Holafly eSIM (also 5% off for you) keeps you connected from the first minute to check schedules and maps.
History
The Villapresente Maze, located in the municipality of Reocín, was created by Emilio Pérez, a pine merchant who wanted to provide work for his daughter. Inspired by the English labyrinths of the 18th and 19th centuries, some compare it to the one that appears in ‘Alice in Wonderland’. With more than 5 kilometers of pathways approximately 1 m wide and 2.5 m high, this maze is an impressive work.
Neighbors, family, and friends joined Emilio in creating this gift for his daughter, helping him with the 4,000 trees that make it up. But, in reality, this gift has become a present for all families who wish to enjoy it.
Come and experience this adventure in Cantabria and test your sense of direction!
How to get to the Villapresente Maze
If you choose to come to Cantabria in your own vehicle, not only will you have the opportunity to enjoy a road trip through our beautiful region, but you will also find simple directions to get to the Villapresente Maze. After passing the Cerrazo sign and the Bar Cuesta (which is currently closed), next to a bowling alley, simply turn right. In a couple of minutes, you will arrive at your destination.
The site has a large parking lot with more than 100 spaces for cars, 3 specific spaces for motorhomes, and an area designated for buses, so you won’t have any trouble parking.
In case you need to use public transport, the best option is, without a doubt, the train. The RENFE Cercanías line that connects Santander with Cabezón de la Sal will take you to the Santa Isabel station, in Quijas. From there, you only have a short walk of about 15 minutes to the maze.
Although there is a bus line, the Torrelavega-Cóbreces one, its frequency and schedules are quite limited, so it is not the option we recommend.
Opening hours, price and 2026 season
According to the official Villapresente Maze information, the 2026 season runs from March 28 to October 12. In July and August it opens every day from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm; the rest of the season it closes on Mondays and Tuesdays, with the same hours (10:30 am to 7:30 pm in the final weeks, between September 7 and October 12). Admission costs €5 for visitors over 13, €4 for children aged 7 to 12, and is free for children under 6, and it includes access to the lookout tower. Since capacity is limited, especially on weekends and public holidays, it’s worth booking ahead through the official website.
How long does it take to reach the end?
The experience is designed to be completed in approximately an hour to an hour and a half. However, if you have a good sense of direction, you could get through it in as little as 30 minutes. This adventure is a perfect opportunity to test your navigation skills and knowledge.
Are you afraid of getting stuck?
There is no reason to be worried.
Upon entering, you will see the map of the maze and receive a mobile phone number you can call for help at any time.
Additionally, the route is equipped with emergency exits in case you feel overwhelmed. And don’t forget that the staff, always friendly and attentive, is at your disposal to provide assistance or even give you a hint to help you successfully complete your adventure.
Is it possible to enter with a baby stroller?
Absolutely, although you should keep in mind that double strollers may encounter difficulties due to the limited width of the paths. However, it is important to mention that the maze is not suitable for access with electric wheelchairs.
Do you have a furry family member?
Great! They can also help you on your journey. Just remember to keep them on a leash and, if the breed requires it, wear a muzzle. Also, don’t forget to bring bags to pick up after them.
Is the Maze open even on rainy days?
As you know, in Cantabria, rain is more frequent than in other parts of Spain, but this should not discourage you from experiencing the adventure. Simply prepare with comfortable footwear and a raincoat. Remember that umbrellas are not allowed. Once equipped, you can enjoy the maze any day of the week.
How about a picnic to end your maze adventure?
They have a charming wooded area intended for picnics for all visitors.
Keep in mind that this area is not covered and barbecues or similar activities are not allowed. Remember that it is part of a private facility and has its own rules. Everyone’s cooperation is essential so that we can continue to enjoy this service.
What to see near the Villapresente Maze
Camarao Park
The Saja River, which flows through the village, offers ideal areas for swimming.
You will find a charming recreational area equipped with a dam, picnic tables, a sports court, and parking.
This leisure spot becomes the perfect complement to a unique family adventure, offering a refreshing break if your visit coincides with summer.
Santillana del Mar
Declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1886, it is a truly fascinating tourist destination. Popularly known as the ‘town of the three lies’—because it is neither flat, nor holy, nor does it have a sea—the truth is that the charm of its sloping streets is unparalleled. So, don’t forget to put on comfortable shoes to enjoy the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, the Don Borja Tower, or the Velarde Palace, among many other things.
Although the famous Altamira Cave, located near the town, often gets all the attention, Santillana del Mar is much more than that. Its impressive beauty and rich history will captivate you from the very first moment.
Since the original cave can’t be visited in order to preserve its paintings, if you want to get a close look at that prehistoric art we recommend a guided tour of the Neocueva and the Altamira Museum, the life-size replica that recreates what’s often called the “Sistine Chapel of Paleolithic art”.
Comillas
Comillas, recognized for housing the Best Monument in the World, is a place that leaves no one indifferent. This village, one of the most beautiful in Cantabria, is a living catalog of architectural wonders and a reflection of social and cultural evolution.
On its beaches, where the 19th-century bourgeoisie enjoyed ‘wave baths‘, the transformation of the town took place, a history that remains alive in its lively summer festivities. Nature, with the waters of the Cantabrian Sea and the Rabia Estuary near the Picos de Europa, enhances its historical and cultural wealth.
The evolution of Comillas, from a humble village to an aristocratic and cultural enclave, is a fascinating story. Every corner tells tales of ambition, art, and beauty. With jewels of modernism like El Capricho de Gaudí and the Sobrellano Palace, Comillas is a treasure on the western coast of Cantabria, declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1985, thanks to figures like López y López and Catalan architects like Gaudí and Martorell.
Read also: What to see in Comillas: 10 must-sees
Sequoia Forest
The Sequoia Forest, with its imposing, ancient trees, awakens a deep feeling of awe and reverence in those who visit it. We cannot help our fascination with this natural sanctuary; one immediately feels wrapped in an atmosphere of tranquility and majesty.
The magnitude of these giants, some of which reach more than 100 meters in height and are thousands of years old, is a humble reminder of the antiquity and resilience of nature.
Walking among these colossal sequoias is like traveling back in time, immersing yourself in an era where nature reigned supreme. Each tree, with its thick trunk and wide canopy, tells a story of survival and adaptation over the centuries. Visitors often experience a sense of connection with the earth and a deeper understanding of their place in the world.
Their presence is a living legacy, a reminder of the importance of preserving and respecting our natural environment.
If you’d rather have the route planned for you and skip the driving, there’s a full-day guided tour combining Comillas, Gaudí’s Capricho, Santillana del Mar and the Sequoia Forest, departing from Santander or from Santillana del Mar itself.
Where to eat gluten-free in the surrounding area
Before we go, we cannot stop sharing with you our favorite recommendations for restaurants in the area, especially those that offer options for celiacs or gluten-free menus.
It is important to remember that, although some establishments are not affiliated with the Association of Celiacs of Cantabria (ACECAN) and, therefore, cannot guarantee the total absence of cross-contamination due to kitchens not being completely isolated, that does not stop us from wanting to tell you about all the wonderful places we have been discovering.
In the nearby town of Cabezón de la Sal, just a few minutes from Villapresente, Restaurante La Retama offers gluten-free options across several of its dishes — from salads and potatoes to sandwiches and the occasional dessert — as reported in 2025 by El Diario Alerta. As always, no establishment can guarantee 100% freedom from cross-contamination, so it’s worth checking with staff when you arrive.
We hope you have the opportunity to enjoy a unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience. We advise you to read our post about gluten-free restaurants in Cantabria.
Other posts about gluten-free restaurants:
Where to eat gluten-free in Santander
Other mazes in Spain
If you were fascinated by the Villapresente Maze, you’ll be interested to know that there are other equally impressive mazes to visit in Spain.
- Corn Maze (Lleida): Located within the Masía de la Esperanza estate, this maze occupies 3 hectares and has two kilometers of pathways through cornfields. This ephemeral crossroads is only open between June and October.
- Tentegorra Park (Murcia): This is the largest vegetable maze in Spain, formed by cypress trees two meters high. In addition to finding the exit, the challenge is to discover the twelve doors of the zodiac hidden inside.
- Horta Maze (Barcelona): Located in the oldest garden in the city, this maze of trimmed cypress trees is adorned with numerous sculptures and has ponds, waterfalls, fountains, and even a canal that runs through the place.
- Casa Tápena Maze (Alicante): Managed by the Provincial Council of Alicante, this space of more than 8 hectares offers a unique immersion in Alicantine history and nature. Its garden is divided into four thematic zones, representing different aspects of the flora and typical crops of the region.
Each of these mazes in Spain offers a unique and distinctive experience, whether due to their history, design, or location, making them ideal places to explore and enjoy a different adventure.
And that’s it for now! We hope you have enjoyed this trip through the charms and secrets of the Villapresente Maze and its surroundings. From the magic of its green paths to the delicious gluten-free dining options, every moment in this region promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
Ready for the next stage of your adventure? Don’t stop here! Explore the other wonderful mazes of Spain, immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Santillana del Mar and Comillas, and be captivated by the majestic Sequoia Forest.
And remember, we are always here to guide you and share with you the best secrets of every corner of our beautiful country. Do you have any questions, comments, or need more recommendations? Leave us a comment; we love reading your experiences and suggestions!
Until the next crossroads!
In case you’re interested:
Exploring what to see in Liérganes: A charming corner in the heart of Cantabria
Discover what to visit in Santander in 1 day: 10 unique places
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete the Villapresente Maze?
The experience is designed to be completed in approximately an hour to an hour and a half, though with a good sense of direction you can get through it in as little as 30 minutes.
Can you bring a stroller or wheelchair into the maze?
Yes, you can bring a stroller, although double strollers may have trouble with the narrow paths. The maze is not suitable for electric wheelchairs.
Can I bring my dog to the Villapresente Maze?
Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they’re kept on a leash (with a muzzle if required for the breed), and you should bring bags to pick up after them.
What happens if I get lost or feel overwhelmed inside the maze?
There’s nothing to worry about: on entry you’re given a map and a phone number to call for help at any time, and the route has emergency exits plus staff on hand to assist visitors.
How much does admission cost and when does the Villapresente Maze open in 2026?
For the 2026 season, the maze is open from March 28 to October 12. Admission costs €5 for visitors over 13, €4 for children aged 7 to 12, and is free for children under 6, including access to the lookout tower. Booking ahead is recommended, as capacity is limited.
