Two routes with contrasting landscapes pass through Ampuero, following the riverbank, winding through beech forest and climbing to a peak 548 metres high. The town also has historic buildings and festivals that reflect both its religious traditions and cultural life. You can plan your trip around whether you would prefer to spend most of your time outdoors or explore historical sites and festive events.
Hiking routes through river landscapes and forest
The Valle de Udalla route follows the riverbank, passes through meadows and hamlets, and continues to the oak grove at Tocornedo. Its landscape also includes the exceptionally well-preserved native beech forest of Rugrande. Hikers who enjoy alternating between open spaces and woodland will find both along this route.
The route through the Sierra de Breñas to Pico Fuentes offers a different experience. It starts on the road beside the centuries-old oak grove at the La Bien Aparecida sanctuary and passes through meadows and a former dense pine forest. Along the way, it passes the Pico Negro area and a beech forest, with views of Ampuero, Marrón and Limpias. The destination is Pico Fuentes, at 548 metres. The main difference between the two routes is their scenery: riverbank, hamlets and oak grove on one route; sierra, forest and a summit destination on the other. Trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out.
Sanctuary and historic buildings
The La Bien Aparecida sanctuary is in Somahoz, within the municipality of Ampuero. The present building was constructed in the Baroque style in the early 18th century. The Virgen Bien Aparecida is the patron saint of the Diocese of Santander and the Autonomous Community of Cantabria. The Autonomous Community's holiday is celebrated every year on 15 September; this is also the church feast day of the Virgen Bien Aparecida.
The Torre Mágica de Espina offers another way to explore the town's history: in 1994, it was designated a Cultural Interest Monument. Together with the entrance portal and the restored Molino de Mizcardón, also known as Molino de Santiago, it forms a historic and artistic complex. The Torre Mágica de Espina Museum is open seasonally. Visits must be booked through the Ampuero Tourist Office.
Festivals and events
The Encierros de Ampuero have been held without interruption since 1941 and have been awarded the title Fiesta de Interés TurÃstico Nacional, a Spanish designation for a festival of national tourist interest. Today, the event consists of three runs in which young people run ahead of a herd of young bulls and oxen. The Descenso Internacional del RÃo Asón has a different focus: at this event, paddlers from different places take on the river's current. Throughout the day during the Descenso, Ampuero hosts cultural activities, guided visits and exhibitions. If you would like to experience either event, check the dates before your trip.
Nature and practical information
Ampuero's natural surroundings are well suited to enjoying nature and taking part in activities such as fishing. If fishing is important to your plans, check what is available locally. The Tourist Office is a practical point of contact for enquiries and bookings for the seasonally open museum. It is located in the Casa de Cultura, C/ Melchor TorÃo s/n.
According to the municipality, neighbouring municipalities within the Marismas de Santoña, Victoria y Joyel Nature Park are just a few minutes from Ampuero. This means that, in addition to the routes and sights in town, nearby destinations are another possible focus for your visit.
Discover more destinations: Santa MarÃa De Cayón, Santa Cruz De Bezana, Argoños, Aja, Ruente, Entrambasaguas, Cabezón De La Sal, Camargo.
For the regional travel overview: Cantabria.
