Castro Urdiales Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and what to eat in Castro Urdiales with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Castro Urdiales

Nestled in the heart of Green Spain, Castro Urdiales is a stunning seaside town that boasts a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural scenery, and a delicious food scene. Located in the province of Cantabria, this charming town offers visitors a plethora of activities to indulge in, from exploring cultural landmarks to hiking, biking, and soaking up the beautiful coastal views. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Castro Urdiales has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Castro Urdiales

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Castro Urdiales has a rich history, and the town is home to several attractions that showcase its cultural heritage. These include:

  • The Church of Santa Maria: This Gothic church dates back to the 13th century and is the oldest building in Castro Urdiales. Its stunning architecture and intricate details make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

  • The Castle of Castro Urdiales: Located at the top of the town, this 13th-century castle offers visitors panoramic views of the town and the Cantabrian Sea. The castle is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and visitors can explore the different rooms and exhibitions.

  • The Flaviobriga Roman Ovens: These ancient Roman ovens have been well-preserved over the centuries and provide visitors with a glimpse into the town’s ancient past.

Natural Attractions of Castro Urdiales: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Castro Urdiales is nestled on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding nature. Some of the outdoor attractions in Castro Urdiales include:

  • The Brazomar Beach: This stunning beach extends over a kilometer, with crystal clear waters and golden sand. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the sea.

  • The Castro Urdiales Lighthouse: Located at the east end of the town, this lighthouse offers spectacular views of the coastline and the Cantabrian Sea. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which winds its way around the cliffs and offers stunning panoramic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Castro Urdiales

Castro Urdiales has several scenic hiking and biking routes that cater to different levels of fitness and experience. These include:

  • The Coastal Route: This 10-kilometer route is perfect for those who want to soak up the coastal scenery. The trail meanders along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the cliffs.

  • The Castro Urdiales to Laredo Route: This challenging 20-kilometer trail takes hikers and bikers through rugged terrain and beautiful natural scenery.

Best Things to Do in Castro Urdiales: Activities and Tours

Aside from the cultural landmarks and natural attractions, Castro Urdiales also boasts a variety of exciting activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. Some of these include:

  • Surfing Lessons: With its stunning coastline, Castro Urdiales is a surfer’s paradise. Visitors can take surfing lessons with experienced instructors and catch some of the best waves in Europe.

  • Wine Tasting: Cantabria is known for its excellent wine, and visitors can take a tour of the local vineyards and sample some of the region’s best wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Castro Urdiales

Day 1: Explore the historic town center and visit the Church of Santa Maria and the Castle of Castro Urdiales.

Day 2: Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and soak up the stunning coastal views.

Day 3: Discover the ancient Roman ovens and explore the Flaviobriga archaeological site.

Day 4: Take a surfing lesson at Brazomar Beach or go kayaking along the coast.

Day 5: Visit the local vineyards and indulge in some wine tasting.

Day 6: Take a long hike along the scenic trails of Castro Urdiales.

Day 7: Relax on the beach or take a boat tour around the Bay of Biscay.

Food and Drink Scene of Castro Urdiales

Must-Try Dishes

Castro Urdiales is known for its delicious seafood and regional specialties. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Marmita de bonito: A traditional Cantabrian fish stew made with bonito, potatoes, onions, and peppers.

  • Rabas: Squid rings that are coated in flour and fried until crispy and golden.

Local Beverages

Cantabria boasts several excellent wines, and visitors should sample the region’s specialties. Some of the must-try local drinks include:

  • Orujo: A strong liquor made from the residue of grapes after they’ve been pressed for wine.

  • Sidra: A traditional Asturian cider that’s made from fermented apple juice.

Where to Stay in Castro Urdiales: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Castro Urdiales has several excellent accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • Parador de Castro Urdiales: This luxurious hotel is housed in a medieval castle and offers stunning views of the sea and the town.

  • Hostal Catamaran: Located in the heart of the town, this charming guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Castro Urdiales: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the top souvenirs and local products to buy in Castro Urdiales include:

  • Cantabrian Anchovies: These are considered some of the best in the world, and visitors can buy them in jars or tins to bring back home.

  • Pottery: Castro Urdiales is known for its beautiful pottery, which is made using techniques that date back centuries.

Local Culture and Customs of Castro Urdiales

Castro Urdiales is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors should make an effort to learn about the local customs and traditions. Some of these include:

  • Castilian Spanish: While many people in the town speak English, the official language is Castilian Spanish.

  • Siesta: Many shops and businesses close during siesta time, which is typically from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Best Time to Visit Castro Urdiales

The best time to visit Castro Urdiales is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is beautiful year-round and offers different attractions during different seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Castro Urdiales

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Tip appropriately in restaurants and cafes.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter on the beach or the hiking trails.

  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Castro Urdiales

Castro Urdiales is generally a safe town, and visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety. These include:

  • Always lock your hotel room or apartment.

  • Avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night.

Health in Castro Urdiales

Cantabria has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can expect quality medical care should the need arise. Visitors should always have travel insurance that covers emergency medical care.

Getting to Castro Urdiales: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Castro Urdiales

The nearest airport to Castro Urdiales is Bilbao Airport, which is located approximately 40 kilometers away. There are several international flights to Bilbao, and visitors can take a taxi or a bus to Castro Urdiales.

Bus Stations Near Castro Urdiales

There are several bus stations located near Castro Urdiales, including the Castro Urdiales Bus Station and the Santander Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Castro Urdiales, and the town is located just off the A8 motorway.

How to Get Around in Castro Urdiales

Castro Urdiales is a relatively small town, and visitors can explore most of it on foot. However, there are also several public transportation options, including buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Castro Urdiales: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Castro Urdiales include:

  • Bilbao: The stunning Basque city of Bilbao is located just 30 minutes away and offers visitors a wealth of cultural attractions, including the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.

  • Santander: The capital of Cantabria is located just an hour away from Castro Urdiales and offers visitors a mix of cultural landmarks and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Castro Urdiales is a gem of a town, offering a mix of cultural attractions, natural scenery, and delicious food and drink. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s history, hike along scenic trails, or relax by the beach, Castro Urdiales has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover this charming seaside town in the heart of Green Spain.

Port of Castro Urdiales. In the background the church of Santa María de la Asunción, the lighthouse of the Castle of Santa Ana and the medieval bridge. Port of Castro Urdiales. In the background the church of Santa María de la Asunción, the lighthouse of the Castle of Santa Ana and the medieval bridge. Santa María de la Asuncion Church, apse Santa María de la Asuncion Church, apse