Country side hotel in the Saja-Nansa region of Cantabria

The Saja-Nansa region is characterized by its high ecological value area. Located between the coast and the sierras of Escudo de Cabuérniga, Bárcena Mayor, Cordel, and Peña Sagra, it includes significant protected areas: the Oyambre Natural Park, the Saja-Besaya Natural Park, and the Saja National Reserve. The area is dominated by tranquility and lush nature, with a landscape shaped by the sinuous folds and rugged reliefs. It encompasses the Nansa and Cabuérniga valleys and is a region with its own unique character.

In the heart of Cantabrian region.

Large expanses of oak, beech, and birch forests provide stunning colors in spring, summer, and especially autumn. Wildlife includes deer, roe deer, wild boar, and foxes, and in more remote areas, wolves and occasionally the protected brown bear. Birdlife features vultures, capercaillies, and golden eagles, while kestrels and kites are more commonly seen.

In autumn, the “berrea” of stags, where the males call out during mating season, and the “pasá,” the return of Tudanca cattle herds from high pastures, are notable events. The extensive meadows where dairy cattle graze stretch to the very beaches, some of the most expansive, solitary, and beautiful in the Cantabrian region, such as Merón, Gerra, or Oyambre. Even in July and August, these beaches are not overcrowded, and visiting in early summer months like May and June offers a nearly solitary experience. The Oyambre Natural Park includes diverse ecosystems, from the dunes of Oyambre beach to the Monte Corona forest reserve and the La Rabia estuary, a haven for aquatic birds.

The Gastronomy of Cantabria

The Cantabrian Sea offers fine fish and delicate seafood. The fast-flowing rivers provide excellent trout and salmon. Cantabrian pastures, always green, feed cattle with exquisite meat, as well as small flocks of sheep and goats. Small family gardens and orchards produce a wide range of products, which, when cooked in the traditional Cantabrian way, result in one of the richest and most distinctive cuisines in the country.

Cantabrian recipes focus on seafood from the coast, trout and salmon from the rivers, excellent meat from livestock grazing in privileged areas like the Valles Pasiegos or the Picos de Europa, and vegetables from fertile gardens. Generally, these are hearty dishes with high caloric and protein content, originally meant to combat the harsh winters of the region.

Cantabrian pastries are also noteworthy, including exquisite sweets made with fresh, natural ingredients such as sobaos pasiegos, quesada, and rice pudding.

Hiking in Saja-Besaya, the Puentes route 

The Saja-Besaya Natural Park is known for its majestic oak forest filled with remarkable trees. One of the most impressive and beautiful routes is the Ucieda Bridges Route, featuring numerous bridges and walkways crossing the streams of this magnificent oak forest. It’s also a place to admire trees like chestnuts, beeches, and birches, making it perfect for a visit in autumn when they display spectacular colors. You’ll be amazed!