In Cantabria, where familiar routes have long been explored inside and out, there is a place that transforms all ideas about northern Spain in winter. Here, amidst rugged cliffs and ancient forests, snow does more than just decorate the landscape—it completely changes the atmosphere. During this time, the park becomes a refuge for those seeking not bustling resorts, but a rare chance to be alone with nature, where every step on the crunchy crust feels like a journey into the planet’s past.
Los Collados del Asón Park is not just a protected area, but a true open-air museum. Covering more than 4,500 hectares, every meter preserves traces of glaciers that once shaped this land. In winter, when tourist crowds disappear, another side of the park emerges: a silence broken only by the wind and the sound of water, and the sensation that time has stopped here.
Glacial Legacy
The park’s main feature is its glacial past. The majestic Hondojón cirque and the Cailagua waterfall are two unforgettable landmarks. The first is a giant natural amphitheater where you can literally see how ice and water have carved the rocks for centuries. The second is a waterfall that plunges from a height and gives birth to the Asón River, one of the most picturesque in the region. These spots are accessible even to those who don’t consider themselves seasoned hikers: the routes here are designed so that everyone can feel like an explorer.
A whole world lies hidden underground: a network of caves and karst voids has made this area a mecca for speleologists from across Europe. But the surface also has its share of surprises—from open meadows to dense beech and oak forests, where you might spot rare birds or even see griffon vultures and Egyptian vultures soaring above the cliffs. In winter, these sights become even more striking: snow accentuates the terrain, and the clear air makes every landscape appear almost unreal.
Trails and routes
The park offers dozens of routes of varying difficulty, but the circular trail to the base of the waterfall is especially popular. The walk takes about three hours, but the impressions last a long time. Along the way, you’ll encounter not only natural wonders but also signs of wildlife: roe deer, foxes, wild boars live here, and sometimes you might even spot a wolf. For those who prefer a leisurely stroll, there are shorter trails that lead to viewpoints and secluded spots where you can be alone with nature.
Elevations in the park range from 240 to 1,581 meters, creating a remarkable variety of landscapes. On a single route, you can walk from moist valleys to snowy peaks, where the air stays cool even on sunny days. Streams babble along the paths, and old stone houses remind visitors that shepherds and woodcutters once lived and worked here.
Winter comfort and infrastructure
Despite its seclusion, the park is well equipped to welcome visitors. The Interpretation Center helps you explore the area’s complex geology and history, while a network of roads connects the park to the nearest villages—La Gandara, Asón, and San Martín. The main entrance follows the winding CA-265 road, where every turn reveals new vistas: from snow-capped peaks to ancient stone mansions that preserve the spirit of rural Cantabria.
In winter, visitors here include not only adventurers but also those weary of city life. It’s a place to disconnect from everything, enjoying leisurely walks, photographing snowy forests, and listening to the wind rustling through the treetops. For many, it’s a true revelation: few expect to find such a harsh yet welcoming corner of Spain.
Living history
Los Collados del Asón Park is not just a natural site but a part of Cantabria’s cultural heritage. Livestock traditions are still alive here, and locals carefully preserve memories of the past. In old villages, you can try dishes cooked from recipes passed down through generations and hear stories of how this land changed with each passing winter.
For those interested in geology, the park is a real treasure. Here you can see rare landforms: karst sinkholes, deep gorges, and underground rivers. Every part of the landscape tells a story of thousands of years of battle between water, ice, and stone. Even seasoned travelers admit that such a blend of wilderness and accessibility is hard to find elsewhere.
Los Collados del Asón is a unique natural park located in the southeast of Cantabria. Its territory covers more than 4,500 hectares, combining glacial valleys, karst formations, and dense forests. The park is known not only for its scenery but also for its rich wildlife: rare species of birds and mammals live here, and traditional villages with unique architecture have been preserved. Thanks to its well-developed network of trails and infrastructure, Los Collados del Asón has become one of the main destinations for winter tourism in northern Spain, attracting both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking peace and solitude.
