An easy, 1 km route in Rasines passes architectural remains of 19th-century mineral processing; it also includes a viewpoint overlooking the mountains around the valley. Cueva del Valle offers a different focus: springs, archaeological significance and an account of the Paleolithic shape this site. The Iglesia de San Andrés and the Torre de Rasines add further, distinct examples of architectural history.

Route 1: Industrial History and Views

Route 1, “Minas y caleros en Helguera,” is classified as easy, is 1 km long and has an elevation change of 50 m. It passes various structures associated with 19th-century mineral processing, including a lime kiln. The viewpoint above the dolomite kiln offers views of the mountains around the valley. The route thus combines architectural traces of mineral processing with views of the landscape. Local trail conditions may change; check them before setting out.

Cueva del Valle: Springs and Prehistory

Cueva del Valle in Rasines is an important archaeological site associated with significant prehistoric finds. Several information panels on the grounds provide information about animals, trees and ways of life in the Paleolithic. A life-size mammoth complements the displays. The grounds are also surrounded by numerous springs, which are the source of the Río Silencio. Natural features and prehistoric themes are among the different aspects of this site.

Getting there is straightforward: Cueva del Valle can be reached from the N-629 via the El Cerro district. Heading towards La Mies, turn left onto a path before Helguera; the access is signposted.

Church and Torre de Rasines

The Iglesia de San Andrés dates from the late 16th century. Its present structure, dating from the 17th century, features Late Gothic and Renaissance elements. One of the church’s main altarpieces was created around 1700 by Jerónimo de Angulo and Diego de Rivero. The chronology thus spans the church’s construction through to the altarpiece around 1700, while the present structure dates to the 17th century.

The Torre de Rasines is now a ruin. Its foundations and defensive moat remain.

More Routes and Local Information

Route 2, “De La Edilla a Los Ríos,” follows the course of the Ruhermosa, offering a different focus from Route 1. Another route takes in megalithic burial mounds and the Ilso de Lodos menhir. The routes described thus lead to different themes: mineral processing, the course of a river or megalithic monuments.

Another aspect of local life is Pasabolo tablón, which is currently played at the bowling alleys in La Edilla and Ojébar. A tourist information point is located at the Museo de la Cantería. If you would like to use it for planning, check its current availability in advance.

Discover more destinations: Guarnizo, Santoña, Villabanez, Pejanda, Riotuerto, Cahecho, Ruente, Noja.

For the regional travel overview: Cantabria.