Santander: Picos, Santo Toribio Monastery and Potes Day Tour

If you’re visiting Santander and craving a full-day escape into Spain’s captivating mountain scenery, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Picos de Europa and the charming town of Potes. It promises a mix of history, breathtaking vistas, and authentic local flavour — all within a 9-hour window. From crossing the Hermida Gorge to visiting a monastery housing a relic of the Cross of Jesus, there’s plenty packed into this trip.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the seamless combination of natural beauty and cultural highlights, especially the opportunity to stand at 1,823 meters after a quick cable car ride. But, as with any guided day trip, the drive can be lengthy and the pace busy. This tour suits travelers who enjoy sightseeing, want a taste of the mountains without a car, and appreciate having expert guides to enrich the experience.

Key Points

• Stunning vistas from the Fuente Dé cable car and mountain viewpoints.
• Expert guides like Pepe, Maria, and Jairo provide insightful commentary.
• Balanced itinerary with cultural visits, free time, and optional activities.
• Good value at $102, considering transportation, guided commentary, and entry fees.
• Authentic experience in a small group setting, often with personalized attention.
• Flexible options like horseback riding and cable car rides enhance the adventure.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day journey begins with a comfortable pickup in Santander, usually in a small, air-conditioned minivan, allowing for a more intimate atmosphere. The driver and guides are praised repeatedly in reviews for their friendliness, safety, and wealth of knowledge—highlighting the importance of good drivers and engaging guides for a smooth day.

Crossing the Hermida Gorge

The trip kicks off as you leave the coast behind and head into the mountains, with the Hermida Gorge serving as a stunning first stop. This impressive natural feature is one of Spain’s longest gorges, and it immediately sets the tone for the day. The views here are dramatic, with tall cliffs and rushing rivers, perfect for photos and just soaking in the wildness of the landscape.

Santo Toribio Monastery: A Spiritual Highlight

Next, you stop at the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, a site revered in Christian tradition. This monastery isn’t just a place of worship; it’s home to the Lignum Crucis, believed to be the largest preserved relic of the Cross of Jesus. Visitors report that this stop feels special, with some reviewers mentioning how they found it fascinating to see such an important relic.

One reviewer, Beverley, pointed out how much they appreciated the short but meaningful visit to the monastery, describing it as a “short stop” but one packed with significance. The monastery’s architecture and peaceful ambiance add to the sense of reverence and history.

Fuente Dé Cable Car: A Breathtaking Ascent

The highlight for many is the trip up to Picos de Europa via the Fuente Dé cable car. The station is a short drive from the monastery, offering at least 1 hour and 30 minutes of free time to explore the mountain area. You can choose to take the cable car, which whisks you up in just four minutes to a height of 1,823 meters.

The views from the top are often described as “breathtaking,” with reviewers like Alex mentioning how much they enjoyed the experience and the scenery. The cable car ride is a quick but exhilarating way to get a panoramic perspective of the rugged peaks and lush valleys, making it well worth the ticket price (around €17-20).

If you’re feeling adventurous, some tour operators also offer horseback riding in the area during the summer months, which reviewers say is a highlight. This optional activity provides a different way to experience the landscape—more relaxed than a hike but equally scenic.

Exploring Potes, the Gem of Liébana

The final major stop is Potes, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful towns. Its cobbled streets, medieval tower (Torre del Infantado), and quaint bridges make it a photographer’s dream. Reviewers like Kristen and Jennifer note that Potes is a charming place, ideal for strolling, shopping, and sampling local tapas.

You’ll have time for a quick walking tour, which guides often enrich with interesting tidbits about the town’s history and architecture. Then, there’s usually free time for lunch and shopping. Many travelers enjoy the local eateries, tasting regional dishes, and picking up souvenirs in the many small shops.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The cost of around $102 per person is generally perceived as offering good value, especially considering the guided service, transportation, and entry to the monastery. Ticket prices for the cable car are paid separately (€17-20), but the tour organizer typically handles this in advance, so you don’t have to worry about lining up.

Horseback riding is an optional extra costing around €30 per hour, available during the summer months. This activity is popular among those wanting a more immersive experience in the mountains, and reviewers like Alex report it as a memorable highlight.

Transportation during high season is in a small minibus or minivan, which helps keep the group manageable and more personal. Many reviews mention how comfortable and clean the vehicle was, with drivers like Jairo and guides like Pepe and Maria making the journey enjoyable with their friendly, knowledgeable approach.

Timing-wise, the tour lasts about 9 hours, with departures and start times varying by booking. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and bring layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Some travelers also suggest bringing a camera, as the scenery is consistently stunning.

Authentic Highlights from Real Travelers

From the positive reviews, a couple of key themes emerge. Guides like Pepe, Maria, and Jairo are praised for their enthusiasm, safety consciousness, and storytelling skills. Kristen describes Pepe as “great,” while Silvia found Jairo “very safe and very into the stories he was telling,” making the day both educational and fun.

The scenery receives universal praise. Beverley highlights the “spectacular views” at Fuente Dé and the “amazing mountains” during the cable car ride. Many travelers mention how the landscapes feel almost cinematic—perfect for nature lovers and those seeking photo opportunities.

The authenticity of Potes also wins hearts. Reviewers mention its medieval ambiance, local tapas, and pleasant shops as real highlights of the trip. The town provides a welcome break from mountain sightseeing, giving you a chance to soak in local culture.

Some considerations and minor drawbacks

A few reviews note the long drive from Santander—about 100 km each way—so expect a full day in transit. The drive can be a bit tiring, but most feel the scenery makes up for it. One reviewer also pointed out that, due to weather or scheduling, some may miss out on certain activities like the cable car or horseback riding, which is worth considering when planning.

Another point is timing. Some travelers wish they had more time at Fuente Dé or in Potes, but given the tour’s packed schedule, it’s a good idea to prioritize what interests you most.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for those who want to combine nature, culture, and stunning views without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s great for small groups or independent travelers who enjoy guided experiences and appreciate informative commentary. The optional activities—like horseback riding—are perfect for adventure seekers, while the visit to the monastery offers a meaningful cultural stop.

It’s suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, some walking, and potentially variable mountain weather. If you’re looking for a balanced day out that mixes history, spectacular scenery, and local charm, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers wanting a comprehensive and scenic taste of Picos de Europa and Liébana, this tour offers excellent value. You’ll visit a historic monastery, enjoy one of Spain’s most breathtaking cable car rides, and stroll through the picturesque town of Potes—all with guides who enrich the experience. The small group setting and flexible options like horseback riding add a personal touch that many touring companies can’t match.

While the drive can be lengthy, the scenery and experiences along the way justify the time investment. Plus, the chance to see the iconic Hermida Gorge and stand at almost 1,824 meters makes this a memorable adventure. Ideal for those who love nature, history, and authentic small-town charm, it’s a day well spent for anyone seeking a deeper connection with Spain’s northern landscapes.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Santander?
The drive to Liébana and Picos de Europa is about 100 km each way, so expect a significant travel time — roughly 4-5 hours in total for transportation, including stops.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring most travelers can follow along and enjoy the commentary.

Can I buy the cable car tickets on the day?
No, tickets for the Fuente Dé cable car are purchased in advance, usually coordinated by the tour provider. This ensures everyone can ride together and avoids long queues.

Is there free time at Fuente Dé?
Yes, you get at least 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore. You can choose to take the cable car (recommended for the views) or enjoy the scenery around the station.

What options are available during free time in Fuente Dé?
You can take the cable car or, in summer months, opt for horseback riding—which many reviewers say is a highlight.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and layers are advisable as mountain weather can change rapidly. Don’t forget your camera and some cash or card for souvenirs or additional activities.

Is this trip suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some walking and uneven surfaces in Potes and around the cable car station may require consideration.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
The main activities, like horseback riding, are seasonal (summer months). The scenery is spectacular year-round, but consider weather conditions, especially in winter, when some activities may be limited.

In essence, this tour delivers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Picos de Europa. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to see the highlights of Cantabria without the stress of planning every detail themselves.