In Colindres, the landscape of the Río Asón meets traces of a long history of construction and trade. The estuary and salt marsh offer a natural focal point, while shipyards, bridges and historic buildings tell other chapters in the town’s story. As you plan your trip, you can explore these different sides through specific trails and cultural landmarks.
Salt Marsh and Nature Trail along the Río Asón
The estuary of the Río Asón and the salt marsh formed within the municipality of Colindres are part of the Marismas de Santoña, Victoria y Joyel Nature Park. The salt marshes of Colindres are also designated as a ZEPA (Special Protection Area for Birds). Colindres is part of the European RAMSAR network for wetlands.
The nature trail along the estuary is 2.3 kilometres long, has a low difficulty level and takes about 60 minutes. It can be completed on foot or by bike; a cycle path runs along the entire promenade. Before your visit, check local trail conditions and whether any works or diversions are in place.
There is a birdwatching point on the promenade about 400 metres from its start. From there, you can observe the wildlife and plant life of the salt marsh with binoculars. Before your visit, it is advisable to check the condition of the viewing point.
Shipyards, Bridge and Architectural History
The Royal Shipyards of Falgote were founded in 1618 to build ships for the Armada del Mar Océano and galleons for the Carrera de Indias. Only limited archaeological remains of the shipyards survive. The Puente Giratoria tells a different story of engineering: it connects Colindres and Treto, opened in 1905 and was considered an engineering milestone of its time because of its complex rotating mechanism.
The Iglesia San Juan Bautista stands on the ruins of a medieval monastery dedicated to San Jorge and San Juan, dating from the 10th or 11th century. Thirteen walnut choir stalls from the former monastery are now in the choir. An inscription on the Casa de los Capitanes gives the year 1728 and names Don Bartolomé and Don Felipe de Palacio as its builders. The Palacio del Infantado, also known as the Condestable, was built in the 16th century by extending a medieval tower and is a Renaissance palace.
The towers and houses also display a variety of forms: The Casa-torre de Los Agüero originally dates from the 15th century and began as a square medieval tower; it bears two coats of arms. The prominent coat of arms on the main façade belonged to the Agüero family. The Casa-torre de Santaolaja, also known as the Torre de Santolaja, is distinguished by its unusual circular floor plan. The Casa Cahupín-Villota dates back at least to the first half of the 17th century and is considered a Casona montañesa in the Clásico Montañés style. The Casa de los Capitanes is a residential building in the Montañes Baroque style.
The Modernist Route offers another way to explore the area: it starts at Alameda-Gurugú, ends at the Puente Giratoria and is 1.6 kilometres long. Its difficulty level is low. This makes it shorter than the 2.3-kilometre nature trail along the estuary; both routes are rated as low difficulty.
Routes and Practical Information
Colindres is one of the municipalities on the Ruta del Emperador Carlos V, the route taken by the emperor himself. The town is also connected to the Way of St. James: the Iglesia San Juan Bautista lies on the original pilgrimage route. The Albergue de Colindres is located in a former teachers’ house owned by the municipality, on the Way of St. James. If you plan to stay there overnight, check the latest operating and availability information in advance.
There is an important seasonal consideration for the Camino del Norte: when the ferry between Laredo and Santoña does not operate in winter, the signposted walking alternative passes through Colindres, Escalante and Gama. Check the ferry timetable before planning your trip. The Colindres tourist information office is on the ground floor of the Casa de Serafina; check the current opening hours before visiting.
A Historic Tradition of Wine and Citrus
Colindres had a significant historic chacolí wine tradition, which was widespread until the 19th century. Vineyards and vine-covered arbors shaped the historic landscape for a long time. Citrus fruits, especially oranges and sour lemons, were also traditionally among the most important agricultural products. For centuries, they supported significant export trade with France, England, Ireland and the Netherlands. Winegrowing and the citrus trade thus offer two distinct ways to explore the town’s agricultural history.
One culinary event is the traditional Día del Cocido, held every year in Parque del Riego and attracting hundreds of residents and visitors. If you would like to time your trip to coincide with it, check the event dates for the year.
Discover more destinations: Peñarrubia, Abionzo, Revelillas, Reocín, Gornazo, Orejo, Pesaguero, San Miguel de Meruelo.
For the broader travel overview: Cantabria.
