Attractions and Places To See around Costera - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Costera include a variety of historical sites, religious buildings, and natural viewpoints, primarily located in the Cantabria region of Spain. This area features well-preserved medieval towns, significant architectural landmarks, and coastal trails offering views of the sea and mountains. The landscape combines cultural heritage with natural beauty, providing diverse exploration opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Costera
- The most popular attractions is Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, a historical site known for its cultural richness and well-preserved village center. It features centuries-old architecture, including the Colegiata de Santillana del Mar, and has an absolute driving ban in the old town.
- Another must-see spot is Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, a man-made monument that was first lit in 1839. It currently houses exhibitions about lighthouses and offers views of the coastline.
- Visitors also love Historic center of Comillas, a historical site rich in late historicism and early modernism architecture. The town is known for landmarks such as the Palacio de Sobrellano and the Pontifical University of Comillas.
- Costera is known for historical sites, religious buildings, and scenic trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient towns to coastal viewpoints.
- The attractions around Costera are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 435 highlights, more than 300 photos, and over 250 upvotes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre
Highlight • Historical Site
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Historic center of Comillas
Highlight • Historical Site
The municipality was the first settlement in Spain with electrically powered street lighting.
Comillas is rich in architecture of late historicism and early modernism, mainly due to the patronage of Claudio López Bru.
Some of the most outstanding examples:
Palacio de Sobrellano (built 1878-1890 by Joan Martorell for the Márques de Comillas)
Panteón de Sobranello (chapel right next to the Palacio de Sobranello, also built by Martorell in 1881, the furnishings come from young Antoni Gaudí)
Building of the Pontifical University of Comillas (Spanish: Universidad Pontificia Comillas), started in 1883 by Martorell, completed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner; The university was founded by Claudio López Bru in Comillas, the main campus is now in Madrid.
Source: Wikipedia
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Descent to Faro del Caballo (700 Steps)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Please, it is very difficult to go up and down, so you have to do it with a bit of thought and go with minimal physical preparation (it is not only going down, but then you have to go up and it takes effort), water (there is nowhere to refill anything and if tighten the heat will be very necessary) and suitable footwear. And if you go with small children (I wouldn't recommend it) who know how to walk and then take charge of helping them up, it's very sad to hear the children cry halfway up because they can't take it anymore.
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Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana (Colegiata de Santa Juliana)
Highlight • Religious Site
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Church of Saint Christopher
Highlight • Religious Site
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San Vicente de la Barquera
Highlight • Settlement
In Roman times, San Vicente was already an important port. In the Middle Ages, notable buildings such as the church of Santa María de los Ángeles were built and today the remains of the wall and the castle remain. However, the most appreciated monument is the stone bridge of La Maza, with its 28 eyes, built by order of the Catholic kings in the 16th century. From this bridge you can appreciate one of the most characteristic views of San Vicente, the contrast of the snow-capped peaks of Europe and the mouth of the estuary to the Cantabrian Sea.
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San Pedro Church of Oreña
Highlight • Religious Site
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Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (Santander)
Highlight • Religious Site
The history of the cathedral dates back to the times when Santander was granted the status of jurisdiction in 1187, under the tutelage of the abbot of its church, this meant a great economic boost for the town with which the cathedral could be built and the castle, which was later called Puebla Vieja, as well as walls that defended the busy port and its inhabitants.
The current building of the Cathedral of Santander is made up of 2 overlapping Gothic-style churches. The lower one was built in the first third of the s. XIII is the parish of Christ and the upper one was built during that century and has had to be rebuilt and enlarged, in 1941 Santander suffered a fire that affected this part of the Cathedral.
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Devil's Eye
Highlight • Natural Monument
Getting here has its challenging part, but you will enjoy a spectacular and picturesque route with impressive views.
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Cabo Mayor Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
Nearby there is a restaurant that is very popular among Santander residents for midday meals.
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Popular around Costera
Road to Lisbon – bikepacking the Alps, Pyrenees and Picos de Europa
Camino del Norte (in reverse) – Discovering northern Spain's stunning coastline
Legendary climbs - Ports of La Vuelta a España
Green, Blue and Gold - Coastal Path through Asturias (GR 204)
Vía Verde del Pas - Along the Riverbank through Cantabria
Cycle between land and sea in northern Spain – Pedales de Cantabria
Paths and waves – surf trip by bike in Cantabria
Water everywhere — Amazing routes near Santander
An epic getaway – Santander-Mediterráneo Nature Trail
A pilgrim adventure – Spain’s Lebaniego Challenge
Other adventures around Costera
Tips from the Community
Unfortunately, the Romanesque Collegiate Church is closed on April 26th - Monday - there are also no opening hours.🤔
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Be sure to visit Faro de Cabo Mayor, it is very beautiful to look at and you can take a lovely walk from here.
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Located in the historic center of Santander is the cathedral, arguably the city's most famous building. It was rebuilt after the two-day fire in 1941 on the salvaged 12th-century crypt. This Gothic building is the city's landmark. It is considerably simpler than many other cathedrals in Spain, but this very fact makes it a very attractive place to visit. Among other things, the remains of Saints Emeterius and Celedonis can be seen in Santander Cathedral. They represent a sanctuary of the patron saints. The church is open to visitors daily. https://www.rundreisen.de/de/rundreisen/rundreisen-angebote/spanien-rundreisen/santander-kathedrale-von-santander.html
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This imposing lighthouse, built in 1839, marks the northernmost point of Santander, towering 30 metres above the rugged cliffs. A short climb takes you to one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the Cantabrian coast. Here, ocean, wind and rocks collide in spectacular fashion. Perfect for a panoramic break.
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The lower church dates from the beginning of the 13th century and I really liked it. The upper church is from the 14th century and the cloister from the 15th century, but both have been heavily modified.
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One of the most beautiful medieval villages in Spain and loved by many tourists. The entire town is one museum.
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The drinking trough is central and has a roof above it 😀
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Costera?
The Costera region in Cantabria, Spain, is rich in history. You can visit the Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the Colegiata de Santillana del Mar. Another notable site is the Historic center of Comillas, featuring late historicism and early modernism architecture, including the Palacio de Sobrellano. The town of San Vicente de la Barquera also offers historical charm with its castle and bridge.
Are there any significant religious buildings to visit?
Yes, Costera features several important religious sites. The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana in Santillana del Mar is a prominent example. You can also visit the San Pedro Church of Oreña, which offers spectacular views of the Picos de Europa and is located next to the Camino de Santiago. In Santander, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is another significant religious landmark.
Where can I find natural viewpoints or scenic spots in Costera?
For breathtaking views, head to the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, which not only offers panoramic coastal views but also houses exhibitions about lighthouses. The Devil's Eye is a natural monument and viewpoint, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Additionally, the San Pedro Church of Oreña provides excellent vistas of the Picos de Europa.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Costera?
Many attractions in Costera are suitable for families. The Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre and the Historic center of Comillas are great for exploring charming streets and historical architecture. The town of San Vicente de la Barquera, with its beach and historical sites, is also a good option for families. The Cabo Mayor Lighthouse offers an interesting visit for all ages.
What outdoor activities are available near Costera's attractions?
The Costera region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and hiking. For challenging MTB trails, explore options like 'Alto la Mina – circular desde Castro Urdiales' or 'Parque Natural de las Dunas de Liencres y playa de La Arnía'. Gravel biking enthusiasts can try routes such as 'Alto de LA-1 (395 m) – Oriñón Bay loop from Castro-Urdiales'. For hiking, consider waterfall hikes like 'Lamiña Waterfalls - circular from Barcenillas'. You can find more details and routes in the MTB Trails around Costera, Gravel biking around Costera, and Waterfall hikes around Costera guides.
Are there challenging trails or natural attractions for experienced adventurers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Descent to Faro del Caballo (700 Steps) is a demanding but rewarding experience. It involves descending and ascending 700 steps to reach a beautiful spot with fantastic views and the possibility of a swim. This trail requires good physical preparation, suitable footwear, and plenty of water. The Devil's Eye, a natural monument and cave, also presents a challenging visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Costera?
Visitors frequently praise the historical legacy and natural beauty of the region. The well-preserved village centers, such as Santillana del Mar, are highly appreciated for their cultural richness. The spectacular views from places like Faro del Caballo and San Pedro Church of Oreña are also a major draw. The unique architecture in towns like Comillas is often highlighted as a must-see.
Can I find beaches or coastal areas near these attractions?
Absolutely. The Costera region is known for its coastal beauty. The town of San Vicente de la Barquera offers a lovely beach experience. The Cabo Mayor Lighthouse provides stunning views of the coastline, and the descent to Faro del Caballo can lead to opportunities for swimming on the cliffs of Mount Buciero.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in Costera's historic towns?
The historic towns in Costera showcase a blend of architectural styles reflecting their rich past. In Santillana del Mar, you'll find centuries-old architecture, including the Romanesque Colegiata. Comillas is particularly noted for its architecture of late historicism and early modernism, with prominent examples like the Palacio de Sobrellano and buildings by Joan Martorell and Lluís Domènech i Montaner, including early works by Antoni Gaudí.
Are there any specific hiking trails for different difficulty levels?
Yes, the region offers hiking trails for various skill levels. For moderate waterfall hikes, consider 'Lamiña Waterfalls - circular from Barcenillas' or 'Parque Natural de los Collados del Asón – circular by the Camino del Val del Asón'. An easier option is 'Churrón de Borleña via the La Llana stream path'. For a more challenging experience, the Descent to Faro del Caballo (700 Steps) is a difficult trail with significant elevation changes. You can explore more options in the Waterfall hikes around Costera guide.
Is there an absolute driving ban in any of the historic centers?
Yes, in the Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, there is an absolute driving ban in the entire old town. Visitors should plan to park outside and explore the village center on foot to fully appreciate its well-preserved historical charm.
Most popular routes around Costera
Most popular attractions around Costera
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