The best traffic-free bike rides in Santander

There are over 300 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Santander and the surrounding region. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good selection of easy and moderate options.

Yes, Santander offers several easy and flat no-traffic routes perfect for beginners and families. The Vías Verdes (Greenways), such as the Vía Verde del Pas, are excellent choices as they follow former railway lines, ensuring gentle gradients and a car-free environment. An example is the El Faro de Suances y la Playa de Los Locos to the Estatua de Francisco de Asís – round trip via the Vía Verde del Besaya, which is rated easy.

The Vía Verde del Pas is a popular choice, offering a 34 km route through natural landscapes, tunnels, and rest areas. Another excellent option is the Vía Verde del Besaya, a 20 km route connecting Los Corrales de Buelna with Suances. These greenways are ideal for enjoying the region's beauty without vehicle traffic.

Absolutely. Many no-traffic routes in Santander are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Caves of Puente Viesgo and Vía Verde del Pas - round trip offers a moderate circular experience. Another great option is the Coastal Trail: Somo and Villaverde de Pontones Loop.

Santander's no-traffic routes offer diverse scenery. You can explore stunning coastal views, lush green valleys, and charming towns. Highlights include the iconic Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, the dramatic Devil's Eye, and the beautiful Canallave Beach. Many routes also pass through natural parks like the Dunes of Liencres, offering unique landscapes.

Santander enjoys a mild climate, making it suitable for cycling for much of the year. Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) are particularly pleasant, offering comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. Summer can also be great, especially for coastal routes, but can be busier.

Many of the Vías Verdes and natural park trails are generally dog-friendly, especially if your dog is on a leash. However, it's always recommended to check specific local regulations for each route or park, as rules can vary. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them.

The terrain on Santander's no-traffic routes varies. Greenways like the Vía Verde del Pas typically offer smooth, well-maintained surfaces, often paved or compacted gravel, with gentle gradients. Coastal trails might include a mix of paved paths and some unpaved sections, while routes venturing slightly inland can introduce more varied surfaces and some moderate climbs, even on traffic-free sections.

Yes, many routes, especially the Vías Verdes and those passing through towns, have amenities nearby. You'll often find cafes, restaurants, and small shops in the villages along the way. For accommodation, towns like Santillana del Mar, Suances, and Puente Viesgo offer various options, from hotels to guesthouses, many of which are bike-friendly.

The komoot community rates touring cycling in Santander highly, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning coastal scenery, the tranquility of the Vías Verdes, and the opportunity to discover charming Cantabrian villages and natural parks away from traffic. The diverse routes catering to all abilities are also a common highlight.

Public transport options for bikes can vary. Regional trains (Cercanías) in Cantabria often allow bikes, especially outside of peak hours, which can be useful for reaching starting points of Vías Verdes. Bus services might have restrictions or require bikes to be bagged. It's best to check with the specific public transport provider beforehand for their current bike policies.