Canyoning in the River Navedo near Potes, Cantabria

Canyoning is an adventure sport that is practiced in ravines or riverbeds carved by centuries of water erosion and other natural phenomena. Although several dry canyons can be found, most of them have a water flow. This is one of the many reasons why it is an incredibly fun and very popular summer sport.

Cantabria, in the north of Spain, is the perfect region to discover this sport due to its many gorges and canyons. And without a doubt, the best place to start is the Rio Navedo Canyon, located in the Desfiladero de La Hermida, one of the longest canyons in Spain.

One of the instructors from Guías de Liébana y Picos de Europa will guide you on this 650-metre descent of the Navedo River. As you make your way through the canyon, you’ll walk, swim, and overcome a series of natural obstacles - including jumps into crystal-clear pools, fun water slides, and thrilling abseils down the rock walls.

This canyon is ideal for beginners: no previous experience is required, and all jumps can be avoided if you're not comfortable attempting them. During the descent, you’ll come across three jumps - the highest reaching up to 6 metres, depending on the river’s conditions - and three abseils, including one impressive 22-metre descent. The natural slides are all smooth and enjoyable, adding a playful touch to the route. The whole itinerary follows the river, so expect to be in the water from start to finish, though water levels may vary depending on the season. While you don’t need to know how to dive, it’s essential to feel comfortable in the water and to know how to swim. Even though the wetsuit will help you stay afloat, you’ll be navigating through sections up to 5 metres deep.

From a geographical perspective, the canyon is located right in the Desfiladero de la Hermida, a gorge that’s part of a protected natural area rich in flora and birdlife. You'll park your car directly on the parking, walk for 15 minutes to reach the starting point, do the activity, and finish the descent where you parked. After exiting the river, it’s just a 5-minute walk back to the car on mostly flat terrain. Please note that there are no shower facilities available at the end of the activity.

Let yourself be amazed by the rocky landscapes of Cantabria with this breathtaking canyoning experience in the Navedo River, near Potes!