Otañes is shaped by archaeological discoveries and historic buildings, as well as by its mining history and paths through the landscape. The season also matters for some nature observations. If you are considering Otañes as a place to stay, you can first weigh up your priorities: would you mainly like to explore historic buildings and finds, or also include walks and seasonal wildlife watching?
Archaeological traces
The periods represented are different: the Roman milestone associated with Otañes dates from 61 AD; the Pátera de Otañes was found near Pico del Castillo in 1900. It is made of silver, with gold inlays in the reliefs and decorations, and is classified as a Bien de Interés Cultural. A replica of a Roman milestone from Otañes is on display in Plaza Nicasio de la Sota. Check the current display arrangements for the replica before your trip.
Buildings from different centuries
The Church of Santa María de Llovera is Gothic in style and has been remodeled and extended several times. It has a main altar and two side altars dating from the late 17th century. The present Torre de Otañes was built in 1445 by Lope García de Otañes y Salazar. Its defensive structure was later altered when the upper section was covered with a hipped roof. The tower is protected under the general provisions of the Decree of 22 April 1949 and Law 16/1985 on Spanish Historical Heritage. At the church, the focus is on its Gothic style and later alterations; at the tower, it is on its defensive architecture and modified upper section.
Mining history and landscape
Setares lies northeast of Otañes. The former mining village was abandoned in the 20th century after mining ended. Its history adds the area's former mining character to its architectural and archaeological history. Monte Ventoso offers a different connection to the landscape: it is 731 metres high and provides sweeping views over Castro-Urdiales.
The main access to the Barranco de Callejamala is via Barrio de Llovera, near the former Castro-Alen mine. Check local access conditions before your visit. In spring, a hawk can be spotted on a summit along the route through the ravine. The same summit is home to the Egyptian vulture, also known as the Neophron vulture, from the first days of March to the last days of September. Sightings of either species are not guaranteed.
Paths and getting there
The Vía Verde de Castro-Traslaviña is accessible from Otañes; you should also check current access conditions for this route. A route description published in 2021 goes from Plaza de Otañes to the Church of Santa María de Llovera and describes the route for pedestrians and cyclists. Check current trail conditions in advance if you plan to take this route.
For bus travel, CastroBus line 2 connects Otañes with Castro-Urdiales town centre and other districts. Check the timetable before travelling. The walking route to the church, access to the Vía Verde and the bus connection are different planning options; choose the one that best suits your stay.
Discover more destinations: La Busta, Los Corrales De Buelna, La Maza, Vernejo, Val De San Vicente, Herada, Gibaja, Argoños
For the regional travel overview: Cantabria.
