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Litoral Trail

Hard

4.8

(19)

88

hikers

Litoral Trail

04:04

15.0km

140m

Hiking

Hike 9.3 miles (15.0 km) along Santander's north coast to Cabo Mayor, enjoying beaches, cliffs, and the iconic lighthouse.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment that may be dangerous

A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.

After 6.99 km for 902 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

3.08 km

La Vaguada de Las Llamas Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Large, modern designed & central park with many ducks and a kind of mini biotope. Nice to look at, but not a real place to relax.

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2

5.17 km

Pergola at Mataleñas Park

Highlight • Structure

A very quiet park to stroll at any time of year, but also to take the children to play. In summer you can see families eating quietly on the grass, or people sunbathing.

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3

5.59 km

Los Molinucos Beach

Highlight • Beach

Small but precious. Worth.

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4

6.07 km

Cabo Menor

Highlight • Viewpoint

Place to relax and disconnect, letting yourself be carried away by the beauty of the place, the smell of saltpeter and the noise of the waves.

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5

6.74 km

Mataleñas Beach

Highlight • Beach

Beautiful cove between cliffs and which is accessed by means of stairs.

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6

7.23 km

El Burro

Highlight • Viewpoint

Small coastal prominence, between Cabo Mayor and Mataleñas.

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7

7.57 km

Cabo Mayor Cliffs

Highlight • Natural

An ideal place to rest and disconnect enjoying the surroundings. Also, even if you go every day, each time is different.

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8

7.96 km

Cabo Mayor Lighthouse

Highlight • Monument

The lighthouse was lit for the first time on August 15, 1839. Currently, it houses different exhibitions about lighthouses that can be visited.

Nearby there is a restaurant that is very popular among Santander residents for midday meals.

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9

8.77 km

Devil's Bridge

Highlight • Natural Monument

Impressive stone bridge near the coast. My doubt is that now it is broken (and obviously forbidden to pass), but I would swear that years ago it was whole and you could cross it.

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10

9.49 km

The Englishman's Pantheon

Highlight • Monument

A small mausoleum on the edge of the cliff, which was ordered to be built in memory of a childhood friend who died in this place.
Inside there is a …

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11

11.5 km

El Bocal Beach

Highlight • Beach

A small, beautiful and quiet cove.

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12

12.5 km

Rosamunda Beach

Highlight • Beach

Small beach next to La Maruca, very quiet and surrounded by pebbles.

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13

13.1 km

At the end of the town walk is this curious Interpretation Center. It is worth accessing by a ramp to its upper part. Awesome visits.

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14

13.4 km

La Maruca Coastal Route

Highlight • Trail

Fantastic area where you can walk and enjoy the views at any time of the year, breathe the smell of the sea, eat in one of its restaurants and even …

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15

14.1 km

Corbanera Castle

Highlight • Castle

The Corbanera castle, or La Maruca fort, is a military fortification built in 1874. It is closed, but if you walk around it you will realize that some residents took …

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B

15.0 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.13 km

4.63 km

2.11 km

1.97 km

915 m

242 m

Surfaces

5.62 km

5.43 km

2.20 km

915 m

366 m

262 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Tuesday 26 May

24°C

16°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the Santander – city tour circular along the north coast to Cabo Mayor trail?

While some sections of the coastal walk are easy, the full 15 km circular route, including the journey to Cabo Mayor, is considered difficult due to its length. It features gentle climbs and descents, particularly beyond the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse. It's recommended to wear comfortable and suitable walking shoes.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this coastal hike?

The trail offers a varied terrain, transitioning between urban areas and natural coastal settings. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including dirt paths, paved sections, and paths along beaches. Expect gentle climbs and descents throughout the route.

What are the main points of interest along the Santander – city tour circular along the north coast to Cabo Mayor?

This route showcases many highlights. You'll pass by beautiful beaches like Los Molinucos Beach and Mataleñas Beach, enjoy views from Cabo Menor and El Burro, and see the dramatic Cabo Mayor Cliffs. A central feature is the iconic Cabo Mayor Lighthouse. Other notable spots include La Vaguada de Las Llamas Park, Pergola at Mataleñas Park, the Devil's Bridge, and The Englishman's Pantheon.

Are there any specific viewpoints offering panoramic vistas?

Yes, the trail offers several stunning viewpoints. Beyond the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, you'll find expansive vistas of El Sardinero, the Bay of Biscay, and on clear days, even the Pasiega mountain and snow-capped peaks of Picos de Europa in the distance. Mirador de García Lago and Mirador de Cabo Mayor are particularly noteworthy.

Is the trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, given that it passes through urban areas, parks, and beaches, it's advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in more crowded sections or near wildlife.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, but can be warmer, making the coastal breeze particularly welcome. Always check the local weather forecast before you go.

Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for this hike?

No, you do not need a permit, and there are no entrance fees to hike the Santander – city tour circular along the north coast to Cabo Mayor trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

Where can I park for the Cabo Mayor section of the trail?

Parking is available near the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse. You can also find parking options in various parts of Santander, especially near the start of the coastal promenade sections, and use public transport to reach different points along the circular route.

Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route incorporates significant sections of the Senda del Litoral, which makes up 64% of the trail. It also follows parts of the Senda de Mataleñas and the Paseo Vital Alsar, offering a blend of established coastal walkways.

Are there any facilities like cafes or restaurants near the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse?

Yes, there are facilities available. Near the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, you'll find a cafe where you can take a break and enjoy refreshments. The lighthouse also houses the Centro de Arte Faro de Cabo Mayor, a museum.

Is the trail suitable for families with children?

While the full 15 km route is considered difficult due to its length, many sections, particularly within La Vaguada de Las Llamas Park and around Mataleñas Park, are easy and accessible, making them suitable for families with children. You can choose to do shorter segments of the circular route.

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Trail Reviews

Wolfgang Pauly
September 6, 2022, Vorbei an der Stierkampfarena zur Küste, weiter zum Leuchtturm und zum Abschluss zum Sardinero

On the last day in Santander we go again along the coast to the lighthouse. Hello! There's real music in Biscay today!😎

Translated by Google
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