The island’s current shape – and even its famous Timanfaya National Park – derive from eruptions that occurred only 300 years ago.
Today, an impressive irrigation network of levadas – built in the 16th century – delivers a unique route for exploring the island, which has nearly 2,000km of trails crossing mountains, waterfalls, tunnels and endangered forests.
On their way from Florianópolis (Brazil) to the Valdés Peninsula (Argentina), Southern right whales – which can reach 16m in length and 50 tonnes in weight – reproduce in Uruguayan waters between April and November.
Some of Spain's most fetching beaches are found along the rugged and gorgeous north coast, along the Cantabrian Sea, also part of the Atlantic.
Liencres
Closest to Santander – just a 20-minute drive from downtown – this town is pleasant though not particularly picturesque or historical. What does distinguish Liencres is first of all its lovely beaches, backed by cliffs up to 73 metres (240 feet) high; they include Playa de Valdearenas (the longest), Playa de Somocuevas, and Playa de Canllave (whose strong currents attract surfers).
San Vicente de la Barquera
San Vicente’s towns medieval quarter is also a remarkable and picturesque time capsule, with landmarks including the 13th-century Castillo del Rey fortress, Preboste Tower, La Concepción Hospital, and Santa María de los Ángeles Church.
Santoña
Apart from the lovely beaches, and the Romanesque Santa María del Puerto Church, dating back to the 13th century, the other main local allure is the Marshes Nature Reserve, harbouring 130 bird species and offering an interpretation centre as well as nature trails.
Comillas
In addition to its in-town, golden-sand Playa de Comillas, including a pleasant beachfront promenade and water-sport options such as diving/snorkelling, sailing, and windsurfing, this town of around 2,200 ten minutes from San Vicente and 40 from Santander is historically and architecturally one of Cantabria’s most iconic.
Noja
Just over a half hour from Santander, this town of just over 2,500 boasts a string of comely beaches such Playa Trengandín, known for its crystalline waters, natural pools, and incredible underwater seascapes for diving/snorkelling and especially popular, full-service Playa de Ris (also near San Pedruco Island, a nature reserve you can walk to when the tide is low).