Best attractions and places to see around Molledo, a region in Cantabria, offer a diverse landscape of high mountain plateaus, historical settlements, and natural water features. Situated amidst the Cantabrian mountains, the area provides opportunities to explore traditional villages and scenic trails. Visitors can discover a mix of natural monuments and cultural sites, reflecting the rich heritage and geography of Molledo.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Highlight • Waterfall
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Highlight • Settlement
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Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Highlight • Bridge
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After a beautiful gravel climb, you reach this plateau with stunning views (including the Picos de Europa in the distance). The path then continues for a long time at altitude, with many cows and horses. Take a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgEcgF17RDw
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Indeed, a beautiful spot with breathtaking views, both towards the Picos de Europa and other Cantabrian mountains. The (gravel) road there is also stunning; just take a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgEcgF17RDw
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And it's also the starting point for a ton of really cool routes.
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La Matanela Pass, 1,005 m. Border between Burgos and Cantabria, Meseta and Pas. From Burgos, it's known as La Magdalena. I copied the altimetry from altimetrias.net, which can be trusted.
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The San Andrés Bridge is in Somahoz (Los Corrales de Buelna) over the Besaya River, which gives access to the San Andrés neighbourhood. It is divided into a narrow lane for vehicles and a pedestrian crossing, and from it we see a railway bridge that we have to go under to enter the neighbourhood. And that railway bridge (or overpass) that we crossed is part of the historic "Ferro-carril de Isabel II" (Isabel II Railway) that began to be built in the mid-19th century with the project of joining the towns of Alar del Rey with Santander and whose section from Bárcena de Pie de Concha to the Cantabrian capital must have been finished in 1858.
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At the beginning of the San Andrés neighbourhood, in Somahoz, the views upstream from the Besaya are beautiful. This is the starting point for several routes.
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As always when I go to this town, I doubt if the best thing is the town... or the food, both extraordinary.
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Molledo offers diverse natural attractions. You can visit El Moral Plateau for expansive mountain views, discover the cascading Churrón de Borleña Waterfall, or follow the scenic Canal de las Tejeras trail along a river with small waterfalls. Additionally, the Alto de la Matanela mountain pass provides beautiful vistas of the surrounding provinces.
Yes, the region features historical settlements. A notable example is Bárcena Mayor, recognized as a Historic-Artistic Site since 1979, known for its traditional mountain-style houses and well-preserved architecture. The hermitage on El Moral Plateau also holds local historical significance.
The Molledo area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For hiking, explore trails like the Roman Road and Camino Real Loop or the Pico Jano loop. Mountain bikers can tackle routes such as the Palacio de los Hornillos – Alsa Reservoir loop. Road cyclists have options like the Alto de Brenes – Pico Jano loop. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the Hiking around Molledo, MTB Trails around Molledo, and Road Cycling Routes around Molledo guides.
Absolutely. The Churrón de Borleña Waterfall is reached via an easy path through a beautiful forest, suitable for all ages. The Canal de las Tejeras trail is also considered family-friendly, offering a fun experience along the riverbank with small waterfalls and river crossings. The historic village of Bárcena Mayor is also a pleasant place for families to explore.
From viewpoints like El Moral Plateau, you can expect expansive, breathtaking views of the Cantabrian mountains, including towards the Picos de Europa. The Alto de la Matanela mountain pass also offers beautiful panoramic views of both Cantabria and Burgos provinces.
Visitors particularly enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility. They appreciate the stunning landscapes and the opportunity to connect with nature, whether it's the amazing forest tracks leading to El Moral Plateau or the picturesque path to Churrón de Borleña Waterfall. The historical charm and culinary offerings of villages like Bárcena Mayor are also highly praised.
The Canal de las Tejeras trail follows a river with multiple crossings and small waterfalls, offering a dynamic experience with water. The Churrón de Borleña Waterfall forms a beautiful natural pool at its base, which is a popular spot for a refreshing dip during warmer months.
While Molledo offers beauty year-round, the spring and autumn months are generally ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The weather is typically milder, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer is also popular, especially for enjoying water features like the Churrón de Borleña Waterfall.
Yes, the historic village of Bárcena Mayor is known for having excellent and affordable restaurants, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal after exploring. Other smaller villages in the region may also offer local establishments.
For those seeking more challenging hikes, routes like the Pico Jano loop from Bárcena are rated as difficult. These trails often involve significant elevation changes and longer distances, providing a rewarding experience for experienced hikers. You can find more details in the Hiking around Molledo guide.
Yes, there are several circular hiking routes available. Examples include the Roman Road and Camino Real Loop, the Hayedo de Montabliz – Mediaconcha Abandoned Village loop, and the Church of San Martín loop from Pujayo. These routes offer varied scenery and return to their starting points. More options are detailed in the Hiking around Molledo guide.


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