Cantabria by motorcycle: 3 spectacular routes between the sea and the Picos de Europa
Fancy some curves, impeccable asphalt, and breathtaking scenery? Cantabria offers everything from the wild cliffs of the Costa Quebrada to the vastness of the Hermida Gorge. Discover the best motorcycle routes in "La Tierruca" (the little land), where to enjoy a hearty stew to refuel, and key tips for making the most of your trip.
If there's a community that seems designed by and for bikers, it's Cantabria. In just a couple of hours, you can go from riding with the salty smell of the Cantabrian Sea to cornering through mountains at over 2,000 meters altitude. The asphalt usually has very good grip, the landscapes are postcard-worthy, and the gastronomy... well, the gastronomy will resurrect anyone after 300 kilometers.
If you're planning a getaway to the north, at Motocorner we've prepared three essential routes for you to make the most of Cantabria. Let's get started!
1. The jewel of the coast: From Costa Quebrada to San Vicente de la Barquera
If you like rough seas, cliffs, and headwinds, this route will blow your mind.
- The route: We start from Santander and head towards Costa Quebrada. This stretch of about 20 kilometers is a true geological spectacle. The road will take you past wild beaches like La Arnía, Covachos, or Somocuevas.
- Charming stops: Continue along the coast to the west until Santillana del Mar (the famous town of the three lies: it's neither holy, nor flat, nor by the sea) with its medieval cobbled streets. From there, head to Comillas to see Gaudí's famous El Capricho and finish the day in San Vicente de la Barquera, making a triumphant entrance on your motorcycle over the imposing Puente de la Maza.
- The reward: Some "rabas" (fried squid rings) or a good "sorropotún" (local tuna stew) overlooking the estuary with the Picos de Europa in the background.
2. The vertical challenge: Hermida Gorge and Picos de Europa (N-621)
Pay attention to this route because it's the "sanctuary" of curves in the north. It's ideal for those looking for more technical riding and breathtaking landscapes. If you love winding roads, don't miss other spectacular routes in Spain.
- The main course: We head into the N-621 to cross the Hermida Gorge. We're talking about the longest gorge in Spain: 21 kilometers of twisty, winding curves hemmed in by vertical rock walls over 600 meters high, carved by the Deva River. The bike demands finesse and looking far ahead.
- The destination: As you exit the gorges, you'll arrive in Potes, one of the most beautiful towns in Spain and the capital of the Liébana region. If you have time, take a detour to go up to the Fuente Dé cable car; the views of the glacial cirque will leave you speechless.
- A friend's tip: If you stop to eat in Potes, the cocido lebaniego (a hearty stew with chickpeas and its "filling") is a must. However, take it easy before getting back on the bike.
3. The green paradise: Los Valles Pasiegos
If you prefer to escape tourist traffic and ride through green meadows, cows, and stone huts, Los Valles Pasiegos are your place. Also, if you're looking for biker clubs for your adventures, you might find riding companions.
- The route: Start in Liérganes (famous for the legend of the Fish Man) and ride up mountain roads towards San Roque de Riomiera and Vega de Pas. Here, the asphalt twists through mountains with serious inclines, like the climb to Alto del Caracol.
- The icing on the cake: You can link up by descending towards the Saja-Besaya Natural Park until you reach Bárcena Mayor, one of the oldest villages in Spain, surrounded by lush forests.
- Breakfast of champions: On this route, there's no excuse: you have to stop for coffee with authentic local sobaos and quesadas pasiegas (traditional pastries).
⚠️ "Street" tips for riding in Cantabria
- The weather is bipolar: In Cantabria, it can dawn sunny and by mid-morning, fog can roll in or a "sirimiri" (drizzle) can fall. Always pack warm clothing and a rain suit. For your safety, always check your mandatory motorcycle gear.
- Watch out for the "grip": In Los Valles Pasiegos and secondary mountain roads, it's very common to find dampness in shaded areas and even some gravel. Ride clean lines and avoid abrupt acceleration.
Is your bike ready for the north?
Before heading to the Cantabrian coast, make sure you and your machine are prepared: prepare your bike for the ITV.
- Get your bike tuned up by a professional? Find a workshop near you in our directory of Shops and Workshops.
- Don't ride alone (if you don't want to): Cantabria is much cooler when you share the "rabas" at a stop. Go to our Biker Clubs section and join a group.
- Share your adventure: If you conquer a great route through Asón or discover a hidden cove, share it! Upload your routes to the Routes section so other fellow riders can enjoy them.
Go, be cautious, and enjoy "la Tierruca"! ✌️