Visiting the beautiful villages in Cantabria region, in the north of Spain, tourists should not miss out on the medieval town of Potes whose traditional buildings, wooden balconies, steep streets and surrounding mountains make the Potes town an interesting tourist attraction place. Although Potes only has a population of about 1,500 the town can offer all kind of facilities, activities and above all its gastronomy and nature.
Moreover, the famous handmade orujo (liquor distilled from grapes remains) has been made in the Liébana Valley for several centuries. In fact, Potes organizes an annual orujo festival in November attracting hundreds of visitors every year.
Visiting Potes Town (Cantabria, Spain)
The picturesque Potes town is situated amidst spectacular mountain sceney, in the heart of the Liébana Valley, at the foot of the Picos de Europa ( Europe Peaks Mountains ), in the confluence of the Deva River, which borders the north side of the town, and the Quiviesa River that runs through the town before flowing into the Deva River. By the way, tourists should go for a walk along the river banks and pass under its mediaval bridges before leaving the town.
Taking a leisurely stroll through the streets and bridges of the historic neighborhood of Potes visitors will find the medieval Infantado Tower dated in 14th century that is really the most remarkable building in Potes. Fortunately,the six stories of the Infantado Tower was restored carefully before showing an exhibition about the Cantabrian writer Beato de Liébana ( born in the 8th century). Besides, if people go up the tower, they can see a breathtaking view of the town, surroundigs and Picos de Europa. The Orejon de la Lama Tower dates from 15th century,the San Vicente Martin Church, and the Capitan Palace Square are also worth a visit.
The Potes Square, is a meeting point where a traditional street market is held on Mondays and great variety of farm produce and local products are sold, bought or changed among farmers and local people. This popular and historic street market has been held since 14th century. By the way, those who enjoy the atmosphere of a real historic and rural market will appreciate their charm.
Visitors should not leave Potes without trying its traditional dishes, cheeses, liquors. Potes is 105 km. from Santander city.
Other interesting places to visit near Potes Town
– Located in the beautiful natural Liébana Valley, Santo Toribio de Liébana Monastery was founded in the 6th century although the current church dates from the 13th century, Moreover, Jerusalén, Roma, Santigo de Compostela and Santo Toribio are saint places of pilgrimage. On the other hand, it is said that Beato de Liébana lived and wrote his literary work in the 8th century in this place. Santo Toribio Monastery is 3 km. from Potes. It takes about 30 minutes on foot to arrive at this monastery from Potes.
– People interested in nature can really enjoy the Parque Nacional Picos de Europa (Picos de Europa National Park), which has peaks of more than 2,500 meters in height, taking the cable car of Fuente Dé that is 23 km. from Potes. Therefore, if people take the cable car it will go up about 750 meters in 4 minutes before arriving at upper station ( 1,823 meters of altitude) from where visitors will be able to see the majestic Liébana Valley and walk and rest in the Picos de Europa. You can have heard plenty of people talk about the spectacular Picos de Europa, but until you can see it yourself, it is impossible to imagine, You will be absolutely spellbound.
Read here more places to visit in Cantabria Region, as Santillana del Mar or Altamira Cave Museum.