Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Coast of Green Spain Cantabria Bike Tour
This cycling journey takes you through one of Spain’s most captivating regions, Cantabria, where lush green hills meet the rugged coastline of the Bay of Biscay. Beginning in the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, often described as “the town of three lies” because it is neither saintly, flat, nor by the sea, you will be immersed straightaway in cobbled streets, Romanesque architecture, and timeless charm. From here, the route winds eastward, blending history, culture, and coastal beauty at every turn.
As you pedal through the Cantabrian countryside, you will discover traditional stone villages, verdant valleys, and striking seaside vistas. Along the way, the prehistoric heritage of the region comes alive through caves, museums, and archaeological treasures, offering a fascinating glimpse into Europe’s earliest civilizations. The ride itself is designed to be both scenic and rewarding, with a balance of gentle stretches and invigorating climbs.
Approaching the coast, the landscapes shift dramatically—rolling pastures give way to sweeping ocean views, sandy beaches, and fishing harbours where time seems to move at its own rhythm. The itinerary culminates in Somo, a vibrant coastal town renowned for its vast golden beach, lively surf culture, and laid-back charm. Here, the energy of the Atlantic Ocean contrasts beautifully with the tranquility of rural Cantabria, providing a fitting end to your adventure.
This tour is more than just a bike ride; it’s an immersive exploration of Cantabria’s essence—its history, traditions, landscapes, and coastal spirit—all experienced at the perfect pace, on two wheels.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Santillana del Mar
Somo
easy to moderate
40 km / 25 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Bilbao Airport (BIO)
Bilbao Airport (BIO)
Highlights

Medieval Charm of Santillana del Mar
Stroll cobbled streets and admire Romanesque treasures in one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, a living museum of medieval heritage.

Cantabrian Landscapes & Villages
Cycle through rolling green valleys, traditional stone hamlets, and rugged coastline, where nature and culture blend seamlessly.

Golden Beaches of Somo
End your ride at Somo’s sweeping sandy beach, a lively hub for surfing, relaxation, and Atlantic views.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Santillana del Mar | Casa del Organista | |||
| DAY 2 | San Vicente de la Barquera | Hotel Faro de San Vicente | B | 36 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | San Vicente de la Barquera | Hotel Faro de San Vicente | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Llanes | Hotel Don Paco | B | 47 km / 29 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Llanes | Hotel Don Paco | B | 38 km / 23 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Somo | Hotel Torres de Somo (4-Star) | B | 43 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Somo | Hotel Torres de Somo (4-Star) | B | 33 km / 20 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Santillana del Mar
Arrive at Bilbao and avail of a group transfer to Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most beautiful medieval villages. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours. Wander the cobbled streets, explore the Altamira Caves museum, or enjoy a gentle ride to the coast.

Day 2: San Vicente de la Barquera
Your journey begins with a ride through rolling meadows, green valleys, and stretches of unspoiled coastline. The village of Novales greets you with fragrant lemon groves and traditional rural architecture. Soon after, Comillas enchants with its golden beach, lively tapas bars, and Gaudí’s whimsical masterpiece, El Capricho. Don’t miss the grand Palace of the Marqués de Comillas, a reminder of the area’s rich history.
From here, cycle through the Oyambre Natural Park, with its sweeping dunes and pristine beaches, before reaching the charming fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera. The backdrop of the Picos de Europa mountains rising dramatically behind the coast makes for unforgettable views.
Longer route: 62km
Short Route Elevation: 645m
Long Route Elevation: 1028m


Day 3: San Vicente de la Barquera
Today is yours to dive deeper into San Vicente and its surroundings. The village itself is full of character, with narrow streets, historic churches, and some of the best seafood restaurants in the region.
If you are eager for more cycling, choose from several loop rides into the surrounding countryside. One option takes you to Carmona, a picturesque mountain village that feels untouched by time. For a different adventure, take the train to the Asturian fishing port of Llanes and cycle back along scenic roads. Alternatively, a peaceful ride through the rolling hills behind San Vicente reveals tranquil farmland and hidden valleys.
If you prefer to slow down, the golden sands of San Vicente’s beaches invite you for a lazy afternoon of sun and sea. Whether on two wheels or simply strolling, this day balances discovery with relaxation. Today we have rides of various distances.
Distance: 38km, Elevation: 719m

Distance: 49km, Elevation: 1020m


Day 4: Llanes
Your ride today hugs the rugged coastline, beginning with the headland of Pechón, whose cliffs and hidden coves showcase the raw beauty of the Cantabrian coast. Crossing the River Deva at Unquera, you officially enter Asturias. The town of Colombres offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, with elegant mansions built by wealthy emigrants who returned from the Americas. From here, the route carries you between sea and mountains, with the Sierra de Cuera foothills of the Picos de Europa looming dramatically inland.
A long, gentle descent winds through aromatic eucalyptus forests, leading you back to the coast and its serene beaches. Your destination is Llanes, a bustling fishing village filled with colorful harborside houses, lively squares, and a distinctly Asturian charm. The 47 km ride is a rewarding blend of mountain drama and seaside tranquility.
Elevation: 698m


Day 5: Llanes
Llanes makes the perfect base for adventure, with so many options at your doorstep. If you stay on the bike, you can follow routes that link together some of northern Spain’s finest beaches, including Gulpiyuri—a rare landlocked beach connected underground to the sea. Inland rides take you into verdant hills and quiet valleys where traditional Asturian hamlets dot the landscape. For a change of pace, trade your bike for a canoe and paddle the scenic Deva or Sella Rivers, or lace up your hiking boots for the dramatic Cares Gorge, one of Spain’s most famous walking routes.
You could also catch the train to Ribadesella, explore the prehistoric paintings of Tito Bustillo Cave, and cycle back along the coast. In the evening, immerse yourself in Llanes’ festive atmosphere, savor fresh seafood, and soak in the lively buzz of this beloved Asturian town.
Distance: 41km, Elevation: 415m

Distance: 35km, Elevation: 467m


Day 6: Somo
This morning begins with a transfer into the Cantabrian Mountains, where your ride starts at 822 meters above sea level. From here, you set off on one of the most scenic descents of the tour, gliding down through the limestone valley carved by the River Miera. The landscape shifts from rugged cliffs and forested slopes to gentler farmland as you approach the coast. Along the way, the charming mountain village of San Roque de Riomiera offers a perfect rest stop, while the spa village of Liérganes invites you to stroll its cobbled lanes and admire its beautifully preserved old quarter.
Your journey ends in Somo, a seaside town known for its wide golden beach and relaxed atmosphere, just across the bay from Santander. This day combines mountain grandeur with coastal charm, creating a truly memorable ride.
Shorter Distance: 43km, Elevation: 375m Longer Distance: 93km, Elevation: 1561m


Day 7: Somo
Your final full day is a chance to savour Cantabria at its best. Somo itself boasts an expansive golden beach, perfect for a morning stroll or a refreshing swim. From here, hop on a short boat ride across the bay to Santander, a lively city that blends elegance and energy. Explore the belle époque charm of El Sardinero, wander through stylish shopping streets in one of its grand squares. Back on the bike, you can cycle quiet lanes to discover the beaches of Loredo, Langre, or Galizano, each with its own unique beauty.
Ride inland to Ajo, where seafood lovers rave about the famous paella, or head to Pedreña for freshly grilled sardines with sea views. It’s also the hometown of golf legend Severiano Ballesteros. Whether you choose beach time, cycling, or city life, the day offers something for every mood.
In today's tour, we have rides of various distances.
Distance: 17km, Elevation: 162m

Distance: 41km, Elevation: 667m

Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred via a group transfer from Somo to either Santander or Bilbao for your onward journey. Take with you lasting memories of Cantabria’s coast, mountains, and villages.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $490
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $120
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Airport pickup
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport pickup to start your journey. Available only on the tour start date.
Airport drop
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport drop to finish your journey. Available only on the tour end date.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
E-bikes are available on many of our tours, but they are not guaranteed and remain subject to availability. Our local partners maintain a limited fleet, and certain frame sizes— especially for guests below 160 cm orabove 180 cm—may be limited.
We always do our best to secure your preferred bike type, but in some destinations availability is restricted. If your exact size is not available, we will inform you in advance and offer the best possible alternative.
To improve your chances of securing an e-bike, we recommend booking early and providing accurate height details.

Trek FX (Female) or similar
Included in your trip price

Trek FX (Male) or similar
Included in your trip price

Cube Attain GTC or similar
Available at a surcharge

Trek e-bike or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Santillana del Mar. It is served by Bilbao Airport. Santander also has an airport, albeit it is a smaller one. We can arrange a group pick up from either Bilbao or Santander to the starting point.
From Bilbao, transfer time to Santillana del Mar is around 90 minutes.
By train, both Santander and Bilbao are linked to inland Spain via the Inter-City RENFE network, offering reliable and affordable rail connections. If you are arriving by train, it is often more practical to disembark at Torrelavega, one stop before Santander, as it is closer to Santillana del Mar.
By bus, Santander enjoys excellent long-distance bus connections to most major Spanish cities, operated by ALSA bus network. Buses run regularly from Madrid or Bilbao.
Departure
Your tour ends in Somo. It is served by Bilbao Airport. We can provide a group transfer from Somo to the Bilbao Airport.
If you wish to depart on your own, you can take a taxi or car transfer which taking around 1.5 hours. Another option is to combine ferry and bus travel. First, take the Los Reginas ferry from Somo across the bay to Santander. From the Santander bus station, frequent ALSA buses connect directly to Bilbao Airport in about 1 hour 45 minutes, dropping you off at the terminal.
Another airport nearby is Santander Airport (SDR). You can take a ferry from Somo to Santander, which lands you near the city center. From there, local buses or taxis connect to the airport in 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, a direct taxi from Somo to the airport takes around 25–30 minutes. Santander Airport offers flights to major Spanish hubs like Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla, as well as international destinations across Europe.
Somo itself does not have a train station. To catch a train, you will need to travel to Santander Railway Station, the region’s main hub, located in the city center. You can get there by ferry followed by a short walk, or by taxi. From Santander, trains operated by RENFE connect to Bilbao, Madrid, and other Spanish cities. If heading further afield, Madrid’s Chamartín station is the main gateway for long-distance travel.
For bus travel, the closest option is Santander Bus Station, located next to the train station. Take a ferry plus a short walk, or by taxi from Somo. From Santander, long-distance buses operated by ALSA run to major cities across Spain, including Madrid, Bilbao, Burgos, and beyond. Regional buses also connect to nearby Cantabrian towns
Weather
Cycling the Cantabrian coast between late March and early November offers generally mild and pleasant conditions, ideal for outdoor adventures. Spring brings fresh greenery, blooming wildflowers, and daytime temperatures of 15–20°C, though light rain showers are common. A light jacket and layers are recommended.
Summer is warm but rarely extreme, with averages around 22–27°C. The coastal breeze keeps rides comfortable, and the long sunny days are perfect for exploring beaches and villages. It’s the most popular season, so expect lively towns and bustling plazas.
Autumn remains warm and inviting, with temperatures hovering between 18–23°C in September and cooling gradually into November. The sea stays pleasant for swimming until early autumn, and the countryside glows with harvest colors.
Rain is possible at any time of year in northern Spain, but it is usually light and brief. Overall, the cycling season here offers a balance of comfortable temperatures, refreshing Atlantic air, and beautiful scenery year-round.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Best
October
Good
November
Mixed
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
