From Santander: Gastronomic Tour

If you’re considering a day out exploring Cantabria’s culinary treasures, this Gastronomic Tour from Santander might just be what you’re after. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve spent time researching and talking to travelers who’ve experienced it, and it sounds like a solid way to get a taste of local traditions without feeling rushed.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines food, learning, and scenery into one relaxed day — perfect for those who want a genuine experience rather than just ticking off landmarks. The chance to visit a traditional anchovy factory and learn about how Santoña’s famous fish is prepared is a definite highlight. Plus, the inclusion of wine tasting in picturesque vineyards adds a lovely laid-back vibe.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of driving and stops, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full and active day. Also, lunch isn’t included, so if you’re picky or particular about eating, you might want to plan accordingly.

This tour feels like a good fit if you’re eager to indulge in authentic Cantabrian flavors, enjoy scenic mountain views, and hear stories from knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suited for curious food lovers and those wanting a leisurely exploration with a small intimate group.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experiences: Visit Santoña’s anchovy factory and learn how local delicacies are made.
• Scenic Vistas: Enjoy breathtaking views from the Mirador de la Braguia and explore the Pasiego Valleys.
• Wine & Food Tasting: Sample white wines at a vineyard and enjoy Sobao pastries at the largest factory.
• Relaxed Pace: The tour lasts about 9.5 hours, with plenty of time to savor each stop.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, making the experience more intimate and personalized.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How the Day is Structured

This tour kicks off bright and early at 9:15 AM with hotel pick-up in Santander, which is handy if you prefer not to worry about logistics. The transportation is in a private minivan, meaning you won’t be stuck with a huge crowd — just a small group of up to 8. Having a guide who speaks multiple languages (English, Spanish, Italian) keeps things flowing smoothly and helps you understand the stories behind each stop.

Throughout the day, you’ll visit key sites: a Santoña anchovy factory, a vineyard at Bodegas Vidular, and the Sobaos Joselín factory. The visit to the anchovy factory is a highlight, offering a behind-the-scenes peek at how these beloved fish are prepared — a real treat for seafood lovers. Visitors often mention that guides are very knowledgeable, which adds a lot of value and makes the experience more engaging.

Santoña: The Seafood Capital

Santoña’s charm lies in its fishing port, where the air smells of salt and the sound of seagulls mingles with the bustle of local fishermen. Walking through this quaint village, you’ll get a sense of its history and importance as a seafood hub. The visit to the anchovy factory is both informative and sensory — you’ll see how these tiny fish are processed and cured, then taste some fresh samples.

Travelers often comment on the authenticity of this experience, with one noting, “I loved learning about the anchovy industry and sampling fresh fish straight from the factory.” It’s a straightforward process, but the guides do a good job explaining the traditional methods used, which makes the tasting even more meaningful.

Scenic Drives and Mountain Views

After Santoña, the journey takes you into the Pasiego Valleys, an area known for its stunning mountain landscapes. We loved the way the tour includes stops at viewpoints like Mirador de la Braguia, offering sweeping views over lush valleys and rugged peaks. The scenery alone is worth the trip, and it gives you a breather before heading into the next food-focused stop.

While the drive is about an hour, the scenery makes every minute enjoyable. Be sure to have your camera ready — the vistas are truly striking and give a real sense of the region’s natural beauty.

Wine Tasting at Bodegas Vidular

Next, you’ll stroll through vineyards of Bodegas Vidular, where the guide explains how they produce their signature white wine. This part of the tour is more laid-back, with a walk through the vines that’s both relaxing and educational. You’ll taste the wines paired with some local snacks, which many say is a perfect way to unwind and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each sip.

Reviews often mention how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are during the wine tasting, making it a genuine peek into Cantabria’s wine culture. If you’re into wine, this stop is a definite highlight, showcasing the region’s approachable yet quality wines.

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Lunch in the Pasiego Valleys (Not Included)

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, it’s suggested to bring some cash or prepare for a meal in one of the local restaurants. The area boasts simple, hearty cuisine, often featuring local meats and traditional dishes. Many travelers find that grabbing a casual meal here enhances the experience, letting you soak in the local ambiance.

Sobaos Pastry Factory and Sweet Tasting

No Cantabria trip would be complete without tasting sobaos, a soft, buttery pastry, and quesada, a similar regional specialty. The visit to Sobaos Joselín is both educational and delicious — you’ll learn about how these treats are made and have the chance to sample fresh products right from the factory.

Guests often rave about the friendly staff and the variety of flavors, making it a sweet ending to the day. One reviewer commented, “The sobaos were divine, and I appreciated learning about their tradition.” It’s an authentic touch that caps off the tour nicely.

Final Stop and Return to Santander

After the sweet treats, the group heads back to Santander, arriving at the original meeting point in the late afternoon or early evening. The small group setting and guided insights make for a relaxed journey, with plenty of time to ask questions or simply enjoy the ride.

If you’re someone who enjoys discovering local food traditions, appreciates scenic drives, and likes small, intimate group experiences, this tour is a good choice. It’s ideal if you want to see a mix of picturesque landscapes and authentic culinary spots. It’s also suited to travelers happy to spend a full day on the move, with some walking involved, but nothing overly strenuous.

This isn’t a tour for anyone looking for a fast-paced, busy sightseeing day — instead, it’s about savoring each stop and soaking up the local atmosphere. If you’re traveling with kids, consider their comfort with long drives and walking, but overall, the relaxed pace and engaging guide make it accessible for most.

This Gastronomic Tour from Santander offers a well-rounded taste of Cantabria — blending food, scenery, and cultural insights into a single day. The inclusion of a traditional anchovy factory, scenic mountain viewpoints, and a wine tasting in a local vineyard creates a balanced experience that feels genuine and inviting.

The price of $136 per person reflects a thoughtfully curated experience, especially considering the small group size, private transport, and all the tastings included. While lunch isn’t part of the package, the stops give you enough flexibility to enjoy a local meal without feeling rushed.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic way to explore Cantabria’s flavors and landscapes, this tour hits a lot of the right notes. It’s particularly good for curious travelers who value local stories and fresh tastes over tourist traps.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop and take in the scenery.

What time does the tour start?
It departs from Santander at around 9:15 AM, but you’ll receive detailed pickup info from the organizer the day before.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops at local restaurants where you can purchase a meal.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, making it a small-group experience with more personal attention.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the factory, vineyard, and viewpoints.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and Italian, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

Is the transportation private?
Yes, you’ll travel in a private minivan, which makes the experience more relaxed and exclusive.

Are the tastings included?
Yes, all tastings at the anchovy factory, vineyard, and sobaos factory are included.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s great for food lovers, scenery enthusiasts, and those wanting a laid-back, authentic day out. It’s flexible enough for most travelers, but check with your group’s comfort with long drives and walking.

Taking a chance on this tour could give you a real taste of Cantabria’s flavors and landscapes — a memorable, tasty day that’s as relaxed as it is enriching.

You can check availability for your dates here: