Traditional villages are still very much alive in Spain, although you have to make an effort to find them. That is precisely where their beauty lies, in that they have managed to stay away from tourist overcrowding and modernization, preserving their architecture and customs slow over time. This is Carmona, a Cantabrian mini-town reminiscent of the beautiful English countryside, with its forests, flowers and cobblestones.
What to see in Carmona, Cantabria
Carmona is a mostly agricultural and livestock town located in the valley of the Quivierda River, surrounded by lush forests and green meadows, ideal for the Tudanca cow, typical of the town. Being delimited by natural borders, Carmona has remained compact, with small cobbled alleys and stone mansions with arches and balconies, which have been standing since the 17th century. Not in vain, it was declared a Historical-Artistic Site and Asset of Cultural Interest in 1985 and is part of the list of the Most Beautiful Towns in Spain.
Palacio de los Díaz Cossio y Mier
One of those wonderful buildings is the Palacio de los Díaz Cossio y Mier, with a baroque façade from the 18th century crowned with a huge coat of arms that, today, has been converted into a hotel. There is also the beautiful parish church of San Roque, from the same century and in the same style, with a beautiful altarpiece of the Virgin inside.
Parish Church of San Roque
Its old town is small and easy to navigate, despite the slopes and twists and turns. For this reason, Carmona is ideal for a relaxing getaway, where you want to walk, breathe fresh air and enjoy the calm and traditional life. Thus, you will discover corners such as the Casona de la Vera and its wooden arches, the statue of the Tudanca cow, the balconies full of flowering geraniums or the Mirador de Carmona, with views of the entire valley.
Where to eat cheap and delicious in Carmona, Cantabria
Traditional mountain cuisine stands out for its grilled meats, stews and artisan desserts that El Puente Restaurant does wonderfully. It is the only establishment in Carmona, but with its homemade recipes and local products nothing else is needed.
What to do near Carmona, Cantabria
From Carmona there is a simple hiking route, lasting about 45 minutes, that crosses a village called San Pedro and leads to the necropolis of Santillán, an archaeological site from the Early Middle Ages full of ancient tombs. Along the way you cross charming valleys and streams in autumn, when the trees turn reddish and the landscape in ocher tones accompanies the Cantabrian postcard.
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