Colossal mountains and dizzying chasms
Along the lonely, winding, and narrow road that runs through the scenic Cantabrian Cordillera, there is a magnificent landscape of colossal mountains, dizzying chasms, and ghostly mist that so often envelopes these high places. This is the entrance to the idyllic Pas Valley.
Fed by the Pas, Miera, and Pisueña Rivers, this Cantabrian region is a wonderful natural gift born of the rough green mountains. It's a small world of endless meadows and solitary huts inhabited only by shepherds, cattle herders, and nomadic villages that have managed to hold on to their ancestral roots and customs.
The cattle herders walk along the narrow paths guiding their herds, brandishing only a "palancu" (a long walking pole used on the rough terrain) and a traditional, colorful bandana on their heads. However, there's nothing more emblematic of these people that their endearing habit of carrying small animals, objects, and even children in large bread sacks on their backs.
The village of San Roque de Riomiera is at the foot of the hills near the Miera, a young river whose crystal clear babble fills the air. Next is the town of Selaya, a stately village filled with the sweet scent of fresh local pastries.
Passing through La Braguia (and its spectacular views of the Pas River Valley), you get to Vega de Pas, a dream villa that revolves around its old plaza and the river.
San Pedro de Romeral is the last village you come to. It's located on a hill facing the mountains, far away from the rest of the world. There's nothing here except mountains, valleys, and sun.
The views from San Pedro are wonderful…high pastures divided by stone fences and dotted with shepherds' huts. In the background, the imposing peaks of Alisas Coto, Castro Valnera, and Coteru La Brena loom. How could you ever leave this place?
The only consolation is knowing that the road to Las Estacas lies ahead (another beautiful port at the edge of Burgos province) and with it the magical splendor of its emerald landscape.