This picture-perfect and well-preserved medieval town sits in the heart of the historic Liebana region, a lush valley at the foot of the Picos de Europa. As you can imagine from that description, the scenery in Potes is hard to beat.
Potes is definitely one of the most picturesque villages in Northern Spain, almost as if it’s been plucked straight out of a medieval movie set.
Potes makes a fantastic base for exploring the stunning Liébana region. This rural, postcard-perfect area is filled with tiny villages that have big character, perfect for a road trip. For the more adventurous, its prime location makes it an ideal starting point for breathtaking hiking trails in the Picos de Europa.
And, of course, we can’t forget the food. This region is known for its traditional livestock farming, so meat and cheese enthusiasts are in for a treat. If you’re not just hungry but also up for a bold experience, we dare you to try the local orujo. The mountain farmers swear by it to help with digestion, but we’ll let you decide for yourself!
Must-See Spots in Potes
Potes sits at the crossroads of two rivers, crisscrossed by several medieval bridges that seem like they were made just for the perfect photo. Its streets are lined with medieval buildings, palaces, and stately homes that carry centuries of history. If you take a closer look at the facades, you’ll spot coats of arms, horse-tethering rings, and sturdy wooden doors with door knockers in all sorts of shapes, as if time had stood still here.
The whole town is a real gem, so there are several things to see in Potes despite its small size:
Torre del Infantado
This impressive 14th-century medieval tower, remarkably well-preserved, is the most important historical building in Potes. Over the centuries, it has been home to dukes and marquises who fought bloody battles for control of these valleys. For a time, it served as a fortress for guerrilla fighters resisting Napoleon’s invasion, and even as a prison.
Today, it serves as both the town hall and an exhibition space dedicated to Beato de Liébana. This 8th-century monk, who you may not have heard of, created 12 of the most valuable illustrated codices of the European Middle Ages.
Entry costs €4 and includes access to the terrace where beautiful panoramic views of Potes and the surrounding mountains await. Opening times vary from low to peak season, so it’s best to check the official website.
Medieval Bridges of Potes
Potes is a town of picturesque towers and bridges that are in great condition. Its location at the junction of three valleys and two rivers made it necessary to build several bridges to move people, animals, and carriages around. It’s easy to imagine the hustle and bustle when farmers and shepherds would come down to sell their products at the market.
The medieval San Cayetano Bridge and the Puente de la Cárcel are the oldest and most picturesque, connecting the two parts of the old town. The Puente Nuevo, the more modern bridge, is the only one that cars can cross.
Barrio del Sol
The Barrio del Sol (Sun’s Quarter) is Potes’ oldest neighborhood and still keeps its medieval charm. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll spot arches, alleyways, and grand houses with coats of arms, like the Casona de la Canal, which now houses the cultural center with regular exhibitions.
This is the area where the families who ruled the roost at the time lived and did business. However, they didn’t build opulent palaces, but rather defensive tower-houses. Can you guess why? Potes was a hotspot for constant struggles between powerful noble families fighting for control of the area. Let’s just say the Middle Ages weren’t the best time for having an unfenced garden and inviting neighbors over for a BBQ.
The 15th-century Torre de Orejón de la Lama is a perfect example, blending Gothic palace and fortified tower-house styles. On its main facade, you’ll find the coats of arms of the Bedoya and Celis families, united through marriage. The house, also known as Torre de Bedoya, now hosts an exhibition on witchcraft, occultism, and medieval torture.
Iglesia de San Vicente
This beautiful church was built in the 19th century to accommodate the growing population of Potes and the surrounding valleys.
The original church (the one next door) couldn’t fit all the parishioners, and it was in poor condition. Inside, you’ll find some stunning Baroque altarpieces that were relocated from an old convent that no longer exists. Best part? It’s free to enter.
Barrio de la Solana
In addition to the Sun’s Quarter, Potes also has the Barrio de la Solana, or Sunny Quarter. It seems the locals once had a competition to see who could claim the best spot in town for sunbathing.
The historic Barrio de la Solana hasn’t changed a bit in centuries. It’s a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with traditional stone and wood houses. You’ll quickly notice that this wasn’t the area for dukes, clergy, or nobles; this was where the common folk lived. There are fewer coats of arms here, but plenty of flowers hanging from the wooden balconies.
The look of this neighborhood hasn’t changed a bit since its origins. Back in the day, people weren’t worried about having a driveway or a killer view. They just wanted their homes close together to keep the warmth in and the cold winds out. That’s why the streets are so narrow—just wide enough for people and horses to squeeze through.
*A little piece of advice: venturing through this neighborhood in high heels is probably the worst idea you’ll ever have.
Mirador de los Picos de Europa
Not many people venture to this small viewpoint located at the southern tip of the town, but it offers an awesome view of Potes with the Picos de Europa mountains right behind it. It’s on Calle Enrique Herrero, and there’s an informative panel that explains the mountains you’ll see in front of you.
Centro de Estudios Lebaniegos
Right next to the church is another building of the same style, which is the original 15th-century church. The government of Cantabria bought and restored it to house the Centro de Estudios Lebaniegos and the Pilgrim’s Office.
It’s definitely worth stepping inside to admire its gorgeous vaulted ceilings. It’s also home to the Tourist Information Center.
River Walk in Potes
One of the best things to do in Potes is to stroll along the river path that connects Quiviesa and Deva, the two rivers that flow through the town. This wheelchair- and stroller-friendly path is easy to navigate and accessible for everyone. It is also lit up at night, so you can also enjoy it as the sun goes down.
The path runs along the right bank of the rivers, starting at San Cayetano Bridge (Puente Viejo on maps). It’s a pleasant walk through the town, passing under the bridges and offering a different perspective of Potes.
This easy walk is perfect for snapping photos or strolling with kids, who can spot trout, blackbirds, ducks, and geese along the way.
Otters also live here, though they’re a bit shy and harder to spot. Along the walk, there are signs explaining the local flora, fauna, and historical activities in the area.
If you’re visiting Potes in summer, there are natural pools where the two rivers meet, perfect for cooling off. The water comes straight from the Picos de Europa, so don’t expect Caribbean temperatures.
The lovely path ends at a picnic area with tables and benches, perfect for a little break. From there, you can climb up the road to Calle San Roque. If you’re not feeling that adventurous, there are stairs and ramps that allow you to exit before reaching the end.
Things to Do Around Potes
Potes is the perfect base to explore the charming villages of the Liébana region and the eastern massif of the Picos de Europa. Here are some of the top things to visit from Potes:
Visit Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana
One of the most iconic spots in the area, the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana dates back to the 6th century and is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. It houses the Lignum Crucis, the largest preserved fragment of Christ’s cross. This monastery is also a key point on the Camino Lebaniego, a pilgrimage route connected to the Camino de Santiago.
Just a 15-minute walk from the monastery’s car park, you’ll reach the Santa Catalina Hermitage. The views are fantastic, and there are information boards about other nearby hermitages, all within walking distance.
Visiting Hours
Church and Cloister: Daily from 10:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 18:00
Lignum Crucis Chapel: Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 12:00 and 16:00 to 17:00
Access is free and open to all.
Enjoy views from Ermita de San Miguel
The Ermita de San Miguel, dating back to the 13th century, is located at the edge of La Loma hill, offering panoramic views of the Deva Valley and the village of Potes. Although only the apse with a rectangular plan and pointed triumphal arch remains, it’s a great spot to take pictures or enjoy the sunsets.
It’s also worth hiking a bit further up to the Santa Catalina hermitage (about a 10-minute walk from the Monastery), which sits at a higher altitude and has a tower you can climb (free access). However, the views are better from San Miguel.
Picos de Europa Visitor Center in Sotama
A great spot to learn about the park’s wildlife, flora, and geology before heading out on your hiking adventures. It features interactive exhibits and guided tours, and some of the staff speak English.
It is located just 4 km (2.5 miles) from Potes but feels like the middle of nowhere, so be sure to check opening times on the National Park’s official website.
Explore Liebana Region
Potes sits at the crossroads of four valleys that form the Liébana region, stretching from La Hermida Gorge to the Fuente Dé Cable Car and down to the border with Castilla y León.
This region of unspoiled rural beauty is packed with viewpoints, hiking trails, churches, hermitages, and charming villages—endless opportunities for exploration. In this guide to Liébana, you’ll find everything you need to navigate the area and make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay in Potes
Keep in mind that Potes is extremely popular and a major tourist destination. Local accommodation options can struggle to keep up with high demand, even outside weekends and summer, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
You’ll find options for all budgets in Potes, ranging from surprisingly comfy campsites to very comfortable hotels and B&Bs with excellent service. However, don’t expect double sinks, infinity pools, or Moët Chandon in the minibar. You’re in an authentic, rural area—just embrace the full experience and enjoy life.
There are plenty of accommodation options in the area, but inside the town, most places are apartments or houses that require booking in full. However, there are also great options in the beautiful surroundings:
Villa Elena
This unpretentious one-star hotel with excellent service will transport you straight to another era. If the beautiful house, the decoration details, and the surroundings don’t win you over, the amazing breakfast served in the garden certainly will.
Casa Cayo
Located in the heart of Potes, by the river and close to restaurants, this charming hotel has the best value in town: They offer excellent service, beautifully decorated rooms, and a full breakfast with mountain views in their riverside terrace.
Although Potes is a great place to stay, I’d seriously consider looking into these other accommodations around Liebana for an even more authentic experience.
Best Restaurants in Potes and What You Should Try
As is always the case in Northern Spain, food takes center stage. Thanks to the area’s rich cattle-farming tradition, you can expect top-tier beef, but they’re also known for their game dishes (think wild boar and roe deer) and fresh river fish like trout and local salmon. And don’t miss out on the fantastic local dairy products, like cheeses, butter, and desserts.
Now, the star here is cocido lebaniego. This hearty, delicious stew made with chickpeas, meat, and cabbage is all you need to fuel up for a hike up the Picos de Europa. The good thing is, you can save the cable car ticket after that.
Asador Llorente
A charming spot with wooden walls and floors, known for serving the most popular T-bone steak in town. They also make a delicious cheesecake with an incredible texture that melts in your mouth.
Any bun?
A place to try the exquisite local beef in the form of one of the best burgers you’ll ever have. Less traditional, but just as delicious.
La Soldrería
Probably the best cocido lebaniego in town. And as for dessert, let’s just say this: artisan sheep’s cheese ice cream with fig jam, honey, and walnuts. All local and all amazing.
If you don’t mind driving for a few minutes, I recommend checking out some other highly recommended restaurants in the Liébana area.
Shopping for Local Goods in Potes and Around
Potes Monday’s Market
Since the King of Castile gave the green light for two weekly fairs in 1417, Potes has been hosting its local market every Monday and on special holidays.
Here, you can find truly traditional products (not the touristy stuff) brought in from all around the region. Think fresh legumes, fruit, cured meats, honey, and locally-made cheeses. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s the potent Lebaniego orujo. It will make the perfect gift for that friend who thinks they’re invincible when it comes to drinking. Let’s see how that goes.
Traditional Cheese Makers Around Potes
Quesería Anadara is one of those spots where you can really feel the passion behind what they do. They’ll let you sample a variety of cheeses and guide you with genuine enthusiasm to help you find the perfect one for your taste.
All you Need to Visit Potes in one Map
I know this is a lot to take in! So here’s a map of Potes I’ve put together to help you plan your visit a bit easier. By clicking on the top-left corner, a panel with explanations about each location will appear. Hope that helps!
As you can tell, there’s plenty to see and do in Potes, even though it’s a small town. If you’ve got any questions or need more tips, just drop a comment below!