Monte Candina, the coast and traces of pilgrimage history give Liendo many different facets. Those who want to explore the landscape will find an challenging mountain hike as well as coastal destinations and insights into the forest and local history. When planning your trip, it is worth keeping the conditions for each activity in mind: the demands of a mountain hike differ considerably from a visit to the sea or a walk through the arboretum.
Coastal Scenery and Trails on Monte Candina
The Monte Candina massif reaches its summit above the coast at the 472-metre-high rocky peak of Solpico. Its rock faces are home to the only maritime colony of griffon vultures in northern Spain. Around Peña Solpico, marine shells are also visible as fossils: some lie loose, while others are embedded in the rock. The Diapiro de Liendo is among the geological sites listed nationally.
On the north side of Monte Candina are the Ojos del Demonio: two arches carved into the rock with views over the Cantabrian Sea. A circular hike to the Ojos del Diablo on Monte Candina starts in Sonabia, is 7.3 kilometres long and crosses karst terrain. The ascent is steep and follows rocky ground; hiking boots and good physical fitness are required for this route. Check trail conditions before setting out. This hike is best suited to your plans if you can meet these specific physical demands.
Playa de San Julián offers a different coastal experience and is suitable for surfing. A footpath leads down to the coast from Barrio Villanueva; you can leave your vehicle in an open area or car park. The options are therefore clearly different: for the circular hike, the distance, steep ascent and rocky ground are key, while at the beach, access via the footpath and surfing are the main attractions.
Arboretum and Forest Knowledge
The Arboreto de Liendo combines a self-guided walk with an introduction to trees and forests. In the gardens, each continent is represented by a selection of typical trees from different parts of the world. The interpretive walk introduces notable tree species, their origins, characteristics, traditional uses and distinctive features. This lets you shape your visit around your interests: the arboretum focuses on the diversity of trees, while the Centro de Interpretación del Bosque presents a range of forest-related topics in an exhibition with information panels.
The Centro de Interpretación del Bosque is located in the Ermita de San Roque. The 16th-century building was once a pilgrims’ hospital and now houses the forest interpretation centre. Guided visits to the arboretum and centre are available for individuals, families, schools and other groups. As booking arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them in advance. The main entrance to the arboretum is beside the N-634, after you leave Liendo heading towards Bilbao.
Churches, the Pilgrimage Route and Local Festivals
Liendo’s buildings also tell stories of different historical periods. The Ermita de San Andrés in Barrio Villaviad dates from the 16th century and was restored in 1990. It is associated with the Way of St James; a corbel sculpture at the portal points to this connection. The Ermita de San Julián, by contrast, is a late Romanesque complex dating from the late 12th or early 13th century, now in ruins. The parish church in Barrio Hazas was completed in the 18th century.
The Camino de Santiago de la Costa passes through Liendo via Iseca Nueva and Sopeña, continuing to the parish church in Barrio Hazas. Those interested in pilgrimage history can use this route, together with the buildings mentioned, as a guide to the historical side of the town. In Iseca Vieja, the stately Casona de Albo is considered an example of Liendo’s artistic heritage.
Festivals take place in the local districts throughout the year, especially often in August. The programme includes religious celebrations in honour of patron saints or the local Virgin, as well as secular festivities. Specific events may vary; if a festival is a deciding factor for your trip, check the dates and programme in advance.
Getting to Liendo
There are two described routes via the A-8: from Laredo, take exit 169 and follow the N-634; from Castro Urdiales, exit 162 also leads onto the N-634. Road conditions and signage may change, so it is a good idea to check your route before setting off. The local contrasts provide a useful thread for planning: a coastal visit and surfing, a mountain hike, the arboretum or pilgrimage history each offer a different focus for your stay.
Discover more destinations: Bareyo, Arnuero, La Revilla, Arenas De Iguña, Santa María De Cayón, Rada, Las Rozas De Valdearroyo, Arredondo.
For the overview of the wider region: Cantabria.
