Gentle hills, river terraces at varying heights, sloping pastures and scattered cottages shape the landscape of Saro. The area is also home to the protected Cubos de Saro, Palacio Gómez Barreda and opportunities to explore local architecture or river scenery. When planning an outing, it is worth distinguishing the route through the three districts from the short PR-S56 in the Río Rubionzo basin: one passes houses with coats of arms, while the other runs through a river basin and a forest.
Heritage and Local History
The Cubos de Saro were carved in the 18th century and formed part of the enclosure around the grounds of the former Palacio de Saranilla. Since 3 April 2002, they have been protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest in the Monument category. Their date of origin is thus linked to a specific historical function within the former grounds.
Palacio Gómez Barreda is also located in Saro. Its design follows the conventions for manor houses with towers dating from the 18th century; the palace includes a chapel dedicated to the Virgen de Guadalupe. The Iglesia de San Tirso is in the centre of Saro de Arriba. The feast of San Tirso is celebrated in the village of Saro on 28 January. If you are planning a visit for the occasion, confirm the specific programme locally.
Routes Through the Village and Countryside
A route through Saro’s three districts offers views of numerous houses with coats of arms; it can be travelled by car or bicycle. The short PR-S56 Río Rubionzo y la Zarrizuela offers a different focus. It runs through the Río Rubionzo basin between Saro and Villacarriedo and reaches Molino de Rubionzo.
The mill retains its original machinery, the millrace and a remarkable 19th-century stone bridge. The PR-S56 also passes through the Zarrizuela forest, a well-preserved stand of native broadleaf trees including oaks and chestnuts. A paved path provides pedestrian access to Molino de Rubionzo and lies on the boundary with Villacarriedo. As access conditions may vary, check them before your visit.
Sport Fishing and Other Activities
Piscifactoría de Saro is a fishing park where visitors can try sport fishing. Fishing rods, bait and trout are provided for the fishing experience. The facility includes a sport-fishing lake, a zoo and a park for exotic birds. Activities associated with fishing also include feeding trout, young goats and parrots. Confirm visitor arrangements in advance so you can plan this activity reliably.
Getting to Saro
The CA-620, which provides access to Saro, meets the CA-142 at Vega, between Santa María de Cayón and Selaya. When travelling there, take road conditions and signage into account; both may change. The road information provides guidance for getting there without specifying a journey time or distance.
Discover more destinations: La Concha, Cabezón De Liébana, Proaño, Rasines, Arredondo, Santibáñez, Torices, La Busta
For the broader travel overview: Cantabria.
