Transcantabrico Route: Potes

Potes is the capital of Liébana, a region located in the southwest of Cantabria, between several mountain ranges: the Peña Sagra and Peña Labra ranges and the Picos de Europa massif. Its sheltered location among the mountains gives it a warmer and drier microclimate, distinct from the rest of Cantabria. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most charming villages in Cantabria, which makes the Transcantabrico Route very special. It is the meeting point of rivers and cultures, of people and dreams.

The town of Potes boasts a rich architectural heritage, both religious, civil, and popular, as well as unique traditions, such as the Jubilee of the Santo Toribio monastery.

History

The history of this town dates back to medieval times, with the most symbolic building being the Tower of the Infantado, which was previously the House of the Marquis of Santillana. It is a 15th-century tower house, square in shape and topped with four angular towers finished with battlements. It is located in the heart of the old town. There are many tower-like buildings in the vicinity, including Orejón de la Lama, Calseco, Linares, and Osorio.

Religious Architecture

Regarding religious architecture, two churches dedicated to San Vicente stand out: the oldest from the 14th century and the newer one, which began construction in the late 19th century. There are also two small hermitages: the Virgen del Camino and the Virgen de Valmayor.

A stroll along the Transcantabrico Route: Potes, transports visitors to another era with its cobbled streets and traditional houses. Exploring the old town, especially the Solana neighborhood, and the San Cayetano and La Cárcel bridges over the Quiviesa River, is a delightful experience. Due to its rich heritage, the town was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1983.

Weekly Market

Mondays are significant for the people of Liébana, as the popular weekly market takes place where locals from all over the region gather to sell their products. Legumes, fruits, nuts, cured meats, and cheeses produced locally are on offer. Many of these products form the basis of their most characteristic dish, the cocido lebaniego (Liébana stew), which can be enjoyed with the typical orujo lebaniego (a local spirit) or traditional Té del Puerto (Port tea).

One of the best ways to visit Potes is aboard the Transcantabrico train. The journey to Potes from the coast leaves a lasting memory, passing through one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in Cantabria, the Desfiladero de la Hermida (Hermida Gorge).