Beyond the Tourist Trail: Northern Spain’s Secret Cultural capitals
From Basque Legends to Rioja Vineyards and Cantabrian Stone Streets
The big cities often overshadow Northern Spain — think San Sebastián, Bilbao, or even Santiago de Compostela. But tucked between its rugged coastlines, misty mountains, and lush vineyards lie small towns bursting with cultural heritage, history, and unforgettable food.
If you’re a traveller seeking soulful stories over selfies, these northern gems — Hondarribia, Haro, and Santillana del Mar — deserve a spot on your itinerary.
1. Hondarribia (Basque Country): A Living Postcard of Basque Culture
Perched on the border with France, Hondarribia is a vibrant Basque town that blends medieval charm with bold traditions. Walking through its old quarter is like flipping through a storybook — cobbled alleys, colourful timbered houses with flower-laden balconies, and a centuries-old castle-turned-hotel.
Cultural Highlights:
The Alarde Festival, a theatrical re-enactment of victory over French troops, showcases Basque pride in full traditional attire.
The Basque language (Euskara) remains alive and widely spoken here, adding a unique local rhythm to the experience.
Culinary Delights:
Known for Basque pintxos (bite-sized bar snacks) — think grilled anchovies, Idiazabal cheese, or stuffed peppers on fresh baguette.
Try a culinary crawl in the Marina district, where bars compete with dazzling pintxo presentations.
2. Haro (La Rioja): The Wine Capital with a Festival Spirit
In the heart of Spain’s La Rioja wine region, Haro is a small city with a giant reputation among wine aficionados. It’s home to some of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious wineries, many offering immersive tours and tastings.
Cultural Highlights:
The Haro Wine Festival (Batalla del Vino) in June is pure spirited chaos — locals and tourists douse each other in red wine while celebrating centuries of winemaking heritage.
Traditional Riojan music and dance often accompany these events, offering an authentic slice of rural Spanish life.
Culinary Delights:
Haro is all about slow-roasted lamb, Rioja-style potatoes, and the pairing of local reds with hearty, rustic dishes.
Visit historic wine cellars like López de Heredia or Muga, where wine is still aged in massive oak barrels crafted by in-house coopers.
3. Santillana del Mar (Cantabria): A Town Preserved in Stone and Time
Described as “the town of three lies” (it’s neither holy — santa, flat — llana, nor by the sea — mar), Santillana del Mar is a perfectly preserved medieval town in Cantabria. Strolling through its stone-paved streets feels like a journey back in time.
Cultural Highlights:
Home to the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, one of the most important Romanesque buildings in northern Spain.
Nearby, the Altamira Caves, often called the “Sistine Chapel of prehistoric art,” offer a peek into Palaeolithic life (via museum replicas now, as the original is protected).
Culinary Delights:
Try quesada pasiega (a traditional cheese-based dessert) and sobao, a buttery cake unique to Cantabria.
Seafood lovers should indulge in anchovies from Santoña, often served lightly pickled or marinated.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June) and early Autumn (September–October) offer ideal weather and fewer tourists.
Festivals like the Wine Battle in Haro (June 29) or Basque summer celebrations in Hondarribia offer unique cultural immersion.
How to Get There and Around
Hondarribia: Fly into San Sebastián or Bilbao, then drive or take a bus.
Haro: Easily accessible by train or car from Logroño or Bilbao.
Santillana del Mar: Best reached by car from Santander (about 30 minutes).
Final Word: Small Towns, Big Soul
Northern Spain’s small cities are where traditions are preserved, cuisine is cherished, and history lives in every stone and sip. Whether it’s the quiet dignity of Hondarribia, the boisterous wine-loving energy of Haro, or the medieval time capsule of Santillana del Mar, these towns are perfect for travellers who crave meaningful cultural experiences.