Alar del Rey — Travelrags

Atlas ObscuraJun 26, 2026

The Santander to Alar del Rey Railway Line in Alar del Rey, Spain

Whilst heritage railways are fairly frequent entries in Atlas Obscura rail lines that are still operating commercially are much rarer but not unknown . This, Iberian standard gauge, line is actually the the northern section, through the Cantabrian Mountains, in Spain, of a line which actually runs south as far as Palencia , which is northwest of Madrid. It is remarkable for its spectacular scen…

9 sights in this story

Santander rail stationSightStarting point of the northern section of the railway line.
Rampe de BárcenaSightOne of the most remarkable feats of railway engineering.
Viaducto de Celada MarlantesSightAt time of building, the largest viaduct in Spain.
MontablizSightPasses close to the highest road viaduct in Spain.
Cañjón dela HoadadaSightNatural grandeur with massive cliffs.
Convento de Santa MariaSightMagnificent church attached, near Mave station.
Canal de CastillaSightOriginates in Alar del Rey, now a tourist attraction.
Las LorasSight
Las TuercesSight

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