A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Villacarriedo: A Hidden Treasure in Cantabria, Spain

Introduction

Villacarriedo, a small and charming municipality located in the heart of Cantabria, Spain, is a tourist destination known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and stunning natural beauty. Although it is less known than some of Spain's more popular tourist destinations, Villacarriedo offers a unique and authentic experience that cannot be found anywhere else.

History and Architecture

One of the highlights of Villacarriedo is its impressive architectural heritage. The municipality is famous for its mansions and palaces, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Among them, the Soñanes Palace stands out, a jewel of Cantabrian Baroque that has been declared a Cultural Interest. Another notable building is the Church of San Román, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.

Nature and Landscapes

In addition to its rich history and architecture, Villacarriedo is also famous for its stunning natural beauty. The municipality is located in the Carriedo valley, a landscape of green meadows and rolling hills that is perfect for hiking and cycling. In addition, the Pisueña River, which runs through the municipality, offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another attraction of Villacarriedo. The municipality is famous for its cheeses, especially the Cantabria cream cheese, which has Protected Designation of Origin. In addition, visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional Cantabrian dishes, such as the mountain stew and the Pasiegos sobaos.

Festivals and Events

Villacarriedo is also known for its lively festivals and events. One of the most notable is the San Andrés Fair, which is held in November and includes a traditional market, livestock competitions, and rural sports exhibitions. In addition, during the summer, the municipality hosts a series of concerts and music festivals.

Conclusion

In summary, Villacarriedo is a tourist destination that offers a unique mix of history, architecture, natural beauty, and gastronomy. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient palaces and mansions, enjoying the beauty of the Cantabrian landscape, tasting delicious cheeses and traditional dishes, or participating in lively festivals and events, Villacarriedo has something to offer all visitors.

Gastronomic Products of Villacarriedo

• Mountain Stew

  The mountain stew is a traditional dish from the Cantabria region and is very popular in Villacarriedo. This hearty and nutritious dish consists of white beans, cabbage, chorizo, blood sausage, pork ribs, and bacon. It's an ideal dish for cold winter days and is known for its rich and satisfying flavor.

• Cantabria Cream Cheese

  The Cantabria cream cheese is a highly valued dairy product in Villacarriedo. This cheese is made with cow's milk and has a creamy texture and a mild and slightly acidic flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a cheese board, and is a perfect complement to a variety of dishes.

• Sobao Pasiego

  The Sobao Pasiego are a type of fluffy and sweet sponge cake that is typical of the Cantabria region. They are made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, and have a sweet flavor and a light and fluffy texture. They are a perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea, and are a delight for sweet lovers.

Sports Activities in Villacarriedo (Cantabria)

Hiking

Villacarriedo, located in the heart of Cantabria, offers hiking routes that traverse beautiful landscapes of mountains and valleys. The trail of the Foramontanos Route is especially popular among visitors.

Mountain Biking

Thanks to its mountainous terrain, Villacarriedo is an ideal place for mountain biking. There are several routes available, suitable for both beginners and more experienced cyclists.

Golf

For those who prefer a more tranquil sport, Villacarriedo has a golf course. The Abra del Pas Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is another popular activity in Villacarriedo. There are several stables in the area that offer lessons and horseback rides, an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Cantabria.

Places near Villacarriedo

If you are in Villacarriedo and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Selaya, a charming village in Cantabria, Spain, is famous for its Pasiegos sobaos, a delicious traditional cake. It offers stunning mountainous landscapes, historical architecture, and a rich culinary culture, which attracts food and nature lovers.

Vega de Pas, a picturesque village in Cantabria, Spain, is known for its stunning mountainous landscape, traditional architecture, and delicious cuisine, featuring the famous sobaos pasiegos and quesadas, typical sweets of the region.

Santillana del Mar, in Cantabria, Spain, is a perfectly preserved medieval gem. Visitors can enjoy its rich history, impressive architecture and delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, regional meats and the famous Pasiegos sponge cakes.