Birdwatching in Cantabria: Santoña, Victoria and Joyel Marshes

Every year thousands of birds arrive on the eastern coast of Cantabria during their migratory journeys between northern Europe and Africa. This natural phenomenon makes the Santoña, Victoria and Joyel Marshes Natural Park one of the finest places for birdwatching in northern Spain.

This protected natural space, located just a few minutes from Escalante, is also the only Ramsar-designated wetland in Cantabria — an international designation that highlights its exceptional ecological value as a resting, feeding and wintering ground for numerous species.

Thanks to this natural richness, ornithological tourism has become one of the most rewarding activities for visitors to the region. Walking through the marshes, exploring its trails or stopping at its hides reveals a living landscape that changes with every season.

A privileged setting for birdwatching in Cantabria

The Santoña Marshes form part of the Atlantic Flyway, one of Europe's most important migratory routes. Throughout much of the year it is possible to observe numerous waterbird and wader species that find shelter and food here.

Bird species that can be spotted at the Santoña Marshes

Among the birds regularly seen in the area:

• Osprey, increasingly frequent in the area.
• Eurasian Spoonbill, one of the most characteristic species of the marshes.
• Eurasian Curlew, easily recognised by its long curved bill.
• Black-necked Grebe, common in the calmer stretches of water.
• Great Cormorant, a regular presence along the coastal areas.
• Great Crested Grebe, visible in estuaries and lagoons.
• Common Redshank, very active across the marsh zones.

The presence of these and many other species makes this natural park an ideal destination for those who enjoy birdwatching in Cantabria.

When to go birdwatching at the Santoña Marshes

The natural park can be visited throughout the year, though some periods are particularly rewarding for birdwatching.
In spring and autumn the marshes receive large numbers of migratory birds that use this wetland as a stopover on their journey between Europe and Africa.
During these periods the landscape changes constantly and species diversity is especially high. Winter is also an excellent time for observing waterbirds that use the marshes as a wintering ground. In summer, while it coincides with the peak coastal tourist season, the area continues to offer good opportunities to observe resident species and enjoy the natural scenery of the marshes.

Routes and experiences to explore the marshes

To make the most of this natural space, a range of nature activities, birdwatching routes and ornithological experiences are organised from Escalante, including:

• Guided routes through the Santoña Marshes and Escalante

• Routes through the Victoria and Joyel Marshes

• Boat trips across Santoña Bay to observe birds from the water

If you would like to discover the best birdwatching spots in Cantabria, we will be happy to help you plan your visit.

Where to stay for birdwatching in Cantabria

To make the most of a birdwatching experience, the ideal is to stay close to the natural areas where these activities take place.

Hotel Rural Las Solanas de Escalante, located on the eastern coast of Cantabria, is just a few minutes from the Santoña Marshes Natural Park, in a quiet setting with easy access to trails, hides and the park's birdwatching points.

After a day exploring the marshes and discovering their species, you can rest in comfortable, welcoming accommodation and continue to enjoy the natural surroundings of the hotel.

Frequently asked questions about birdwatching in Cantabria

Where can you go birdwatching in Cantabria?
One of the most important birdwatching destinations in Cantabria is the Santoña, Victoria and Joyel Marshes Natural Park. This coastal wetland, located in the eastern part of the region, is a key site for numerous waterbird and migratory species that use the marshes as a resting, feeding and wintering ground along the Atlantic Flyway.
Thanks to this natural richness, the park has become a highly valued destination for both amateur enthusiasts and experienced birdwatchers.

What is birdwatching tourism?
Birdwatching tourism — also known as ornithological tourism — is a form of nature tourism focused on observing birds in their natural environment. It involves exploring natural spaces such as marshes, wetlands and forests to observe and identify different bird species, always respecting their habitat. In Cantabria, this type of tourism finds one of its finest settings in the Santoña Marshes.

When is the best time for birdwatching at the Santoña Marshes?
The Santoña Marshes can be visited throughout the year, but the most rewarding periods for birdwatching tend to coincide with the spring and autumn migration seasons, when many species use this wetland as a stopover on their journeys between Europe and Africa. In winter it is also possible to observe numerous waterbirds that use the area as a wintering ground.

Where to stay for birdwatching in Cantabria?
To make the most of a birdwatching trip, it is recommended to stay close to the natural areas where these activities take place. Escalante, located at the heart of the Santoña Marshes Natural Park, is an exceptionally well-placed base for exploring the area. From here it is easy to reach trails, hides and points of interest across the park. Hotel Rural Las Solanas in Escalante is an ideal base for organising this type of stay. You can also explore the full range of activities available in the area.

To help you make the most of your visit to this part of Cantabria, from Las Solanas de Escalante we work in collaboration with SEO/Birdlife Cantabria, the IberAves project, the Natural Park Interpretation Centre and experienced local bird guides — offering Guided Routes through the Santoña Marshes and the Victoria and Joyel Marshes.