Castro Urdiales is a fascinating destination located on the eastern coast of Cantabria. This picturesque town, with Roman origins, stands out for its historical-artistic heritage and its beaches. It also plays a crucial role in the Camino del Norte, one of the most challenging and scenic routes of the Camino de Santiago. 

At Mundiplus, your agency specialised in Camino de Santiago trips, we present to you the must-see places, activities to do, and practical tips to ensure you make the most of your visit.

 

Castro Urdiales: an unmissable stop on the Camino del Norte

As we mentioned earlier, the Camino de Santiago from Irún passes through the town of Castro Urdiales, making it a mandatory stop for pilgrims. 

This route is known for combining stretches of rugged coastline, beaches, and mountains, offering spectacular landscapes that enhance the Camino experience. Of course, the town, in addition to its beauty, provides services for pilgrims, such as hostels, specialised shops, and restaurants.

  • If you’re considering which route to choose, you can explore other alternatives. For example, the Camino de Santiago from Ourense is a shorter and less difficult option. It is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed experience, passing through rural areas and Galician forests.

 

  • For those who want a closer connection with nature, the Camino Primitivo from Lugo stands out for its mountainous landscapes and demanding stages. It is part of the oldest route to Santiago and a perfect choice for pilgrims seeking a physical and spiritual challenge.

 

The history of Castro Urdiales: A journey through the past

Castro Urdiales was founded as “Flaviobriga” in the 1st century AD, being one of the main port locations of the Roman Empire in the Iberian Peninsula. After the fall of the Empire, the town gradually became an important fishing and trading centre, especially during the Middle Ages.

The old town preserves numerous remains from its past, such as the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, the medieval castle, and the Roman bridge, which are part of a historical ensemble declared a Cultural Heritage site.

To give you a more complete picture, here are the main monuments in Castro Urdiales.

 

What to see in Castro Urdiales

Santa Ana Lighthouse and Hermitage

In fact, the Santa Ana Hermitage is usually closed. Still, it’s worth climbing its stairs to enjoy a beautiful view of the fishing port.

After crossing the bridge (which we will discuss later), you will find the Santa Ana Castle-Lighthouse, one of the town’s most emblematic landmarks. This historic complex, located on impressive cliffs, combines a medieval castle from the 13th and 14th centuries with a lighthouse that began operating in 1853. 

The castle was part of the old defensive system of the town, which was once completely walled, although there are no remains of those walls today. Currently, the interior hosts exhibitions and free cultural events.

 

Church of Santa María de la Asunción

The Church of Santa María de la Asunción is the symbol of the town and one of the most prominent Gothic churches in Cantabria. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, it shows influences of French Gothic, with similarities to the Cathedral of Burgos.

Its interior houses polychrome sculptures, with an imposing organ from the Netherlands, which has passed through a Dutch chapel and the Évreux Cathedral. Due to its original large size, adjustments were made to adapt it to the temple. Both the church and the organ are declared Cultural Heritage sites.

Next to it are the ruins of the Church of San Pedro, the oldest building in the town, dating back to the 12th century.

 

Medieval Bridge

The Medieval Bridge is also known as the Roman Bridge. This single-arched Gothic bridge connects the promontory of the Santa Ana Castle and the Church of Santa María with the Santa Ana Hermitage. From below, you can admire how the waves of the Cantabrian Sea slip beneath its structure, offering a unique natural spectacle.

 

Ocharan Palace

Ocharan Palace is located near the sea. Built in 1901 as a mansion for Luis de Ocharan, this elegant eclectic-style palace features a castle-observatory added later.

It stands out for its porticoed façade with ten Ionic columns in double rows, its pink and white marble cladding, and its beautiful gardens. To visit, it is necessary to sign up for a guided tour through the Town Hall or the Tourist Information Office.

 

Amestoy Park

This park, located next to the Promenade and the Harbour, stands out for its gardens with a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers. Additionally, it is surrounded by elegant buildings, such as the Salvarrey building, and offers excellent views of the historic ensemble of the Old Town.

In the park, you will find the Tourist Information Office, where you can gather information to plan your visit, as well as the “Castro Urdiales” letters, perfect for a souvenir photo.

 

Promenade

This promenade, running parallel to the sea, offers spectacular views of the Cantabrian coastline from points such as the San Luis Wharf, which protects Brazomar Beach from the waves. It is a popular resting spot during the summer.

After enjoying the promenade or taking a dip in the beach (which we will describe better later), you can head up to the Cotolino Park.

 

Main Square

The Main Square is surrounded by arcades with bars and terraces ideal for having a drink. The Casa de los Chelines also stands out, an iconic building with a neo-gothic façade and a central viewpoint with gothic-inspired decorative elements.

 

The Coast of Castro Urdiales: Breathtaking Landscapes

The coast of Castro Urdiales offers a privileged natural setting, where cliffs, coves, and beaches alternate. Here are some of the main highlights:

  • El Pedregal. This rocky formation extends into the sea. It is a perfect place for hiking or simply enjoying the maritime landscape. From this point, the views of the Cantabrian Sea are especially impressive.

 

  • Ostende Beach. With more than 700 metres in length, it is the main urban beach in Castro Urdiales. It offers services such as showers, lifeguards, and leisure areas, making it an ideal spot for families and pilgrims looking to relax after a long walk.

 

The Gastronomy of Castro Urdiales: Taste and Tradition

The local gastronomy is another major attraction of Castro Urdiales. Seafood products such as anchovies, shellfish, and grilled fish are key ingredients in many dishes. Specialities such as marmitako and rabas (fried squid), typical of the region, are also highly recommended.

 

What to Do in Castro Urdiales: Activities for All Tastes

Besides visiting its monuments, here you can enjoy activities such as hiking along the coast, boat trips, or water sports. During the summer, traditional festivals and fairs are also held. A highlight is the Semana Grande, which takes place in the last week of June.

 

Practical Tips for Visiting Castro Urdiales

  • How to Get There: Castro Urdiales is located 35 km from Bilbao and 70 km from Santander. It is accessible by road via the A-8. Bus services are also available from both cities.

 

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer months are ideal for enjoying the weather and outdoor activities.

 

  • Services for Pilgrims: The town offers several hostels and rest points, as well as specific tourist information for those walking the Camino del Norte.