Cantabria is a land of contrasts, and its gastronomy reflects this perfectly. Some of its best-known products come from the sea, while the valleys and mountain areas are home to traditional recipes and sweet treats that form part of the region’s identity. If you want to discover Cantabria through its flavours too, these three specialities are an excellent place to start.

Cocido montañés, slow-cooked tradition

Cocido montañés is one of the great classics of Cantabrian cuisine. This hearty dish is traditionally prepared with white beans, cabbage and a variety of pork products. It is particularly associated with the inland valleys and is perfect for recharging your batteries after a day exploring Cantabria.

If you’re staying at BLUESEA Noja, make the most of one of your trips inland to find a traditional restaurant and try this representative dish of the region.

Santoña anchovies, a taste of the Cantabrian Sea

From the mountains, we head to the coast to try the famous Santoña anchovies. The town has a long-standing canning tradition, where locally caught anchovies are carefully prepared by hand to create one of Cantabria’s most renowned gastronomic products.

From BLUESEA Noja, Santoña is an excellent choice for a day trip combining gastronomy, seafaring atmosphere and the landscapes of Cantabria’s eastern coast.

Sobaos pasiegos, a sweet finish

To finish, there’s nothing better than one of the great classics of regional baking: sobaos pasiegos. Originally from the Valles Pasiegos, they are known for their soft, fluffy texture and rich buttery flavour. A simple recipe that has become a true symbol of Cantabria.

During your holiday at BLUESEA Noja, you can easily find them in shops and local establishments throughout the region and take home one of Cantabria’s most traditional flavours.

Cocido montañés, Santoña anchovies and sobaos pasiegos take us from the mountains to the sea and reveal three sides of a cuisine full of character. Because exploring Cantabria also means discovering it one bite at a time.