Asturias is one of the destinations most associated with summer camps in Spain. Its geography, climate and cuisine explain why so many families look for a camp in the Cantabrian north. This article looks at the reasons why Asturias works so well as a camp environment — and, at the end, the equivalent alternatives that Natuaventura offers in Cantabria.
Why the Cantabrian North Is a Great Camp Destination
The whole of northern Spain — Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country — shares a distinctive appeal compared with other summer destinations: spectacular scenery, sea and mountains very close together, a cool climate and outstanding local cuisine. This makes the area a privileged setting for outdoor summer camps during July and August.
Spectacular Landscapes
Natural beaches, mountains, valleys, rivers and the Picos de Europa close by. Views that few places in the country offer in such a short distance.
Nature Activities
Hiking, gorge descents, white-water rafting, canoeing, surfing, mountain trails — the range of possible activities is vast and varied.
Local Cuisine
Home-cooked food, seasonal produce and typical northern dishes. Eating well is part of the memory of a summer camp.
Mild Climate
Cool summers, far from the extreme heat of central and southern Spain. Outdoor activities can be done without enduring the most intense heat of the day.
What to Look for in a Northern Camp
Beach and mountain combination: the camp should make the most of the closeness between coast and mountains. That is what sets the north apart from other destinations.
Programme adapted to the climate: the north has cool summers but also occasional rainy days. The programme should have an indoor backup plan.
Water activities with an accredited school: if surfing, canoeing or sailing are on offer, confirm that they are run by an accredited school.
Suitable accommodation: with large covered areas for rest or indoor activities.
Qualified activity leader team: a reasonable ratio (ideally 1 for every 8 participants) and leaders with the official leisure and recreation qualification.
Natuaventura Alternatives in the Cantabrian North
Natuaventura does not have camps in Asturias, but it does in Cantabria, the neighbouring region, with a landscape, climate and cuisine profile that is practically equivalent:
Santander Surf
- Albergue Montecorona, Santander.
- Fortnight format (ages 7–17, 938/898 €) and 10-day format (ages 13–17, 698/678/678 €).
- Official surf course, beach activities and multi-adventure.
- Cantabrian coast with beach and green surroundings.
Villar Multi-Adventure
- Albergue Las Indianas, Villar de Campoo (inland Cantabria).
- Cantabrian mountains + a day at Somo beach.
- Multi-adventure: climbing, archery, trails, surfing at Somo, group games.
- More than 20 consecutive years running this camp.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camps in the North
Does Natuaventura have camps in Asturias?
No. Our northern camps are in Cantabria — Santander Surf and Villar — with a landscape, climate and Cantabrian coast profile that is equivalent.
Is the northern climate comfortable for a summer camp?
Yes. Summers are cool and allow outdoor activities without the extreme heat of the inland peninsula. There may be rainy days: that is why the programme always has an indoor backup plan.
What water activities are available?
In Cantabria, at our camps: surfing with an official school (4 days in Santander Surf 10 Days, 5 days in Santander Surf Fortnight), bathing at beaches and natural pools, and trails with river stretches.
From what age can children attend?
Santander Surf Fortnight accepts ages 7 to 17. Santander Surf 10 Days is for ages 13–17. Villar accepts from age 7. All groups are divided by age.
What is the beach-mountain combination like in Cantabria?
It is one of the region’s strongest points. In Santander, pure coast. In Villar, Cantabrian mountains with a beach day at Somo and a beach olympics with the Santander group.
Camps in the North: Alternatives in Cantabria
If the north appeals to you, our camps in Cantabria — Santander Surf and Villar — offer the same Cantabrian scenery, cool climate and beach-mountain combination.
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