El Club · Potes

The Thermal Pools of La Hermida are a place of natural hot springs located in the gorge of La Hermida, in the surroundings of the Deva river, in the municipality of Potes, Cantabria. They are located next to the road and under the access bridge to the spa, in a point well known for its free use and the contrast between the hot water and the landscape of the gorge. The main interest of the place is geological and scenic: thermal water springs spontaneously gush out here, with temperatures quoted at around 55-60 °C, which are channeled into small pools next to the riverbed. The references consulted describe a set of small pools, delimited with stones, where bathing is visually mixed with the Deva River and the walls of the gorge, one of the most recognizable features of this section of the region. The visit is interesting for the outdoor bathing experience in a mountain environment and for its value as a resource closely linked to the thermal landscape of La Hermida. In addition, the area is associated with the gorge of the same name and a protected environment of community interest, which reinforces its environmental and territorial relevance. It is a place especially appreciated by hikers and travelers who travel through the Picos de Europa area, although access is easy but uncomfortable at some points, as it is on the side of the bridge and close to the road.

The Torre del Infantado is a medieval castle or defensive tower located in Potes, in the region of Liébana, Cantabria. It is located in the town center of the village, with coordinates near 43.15416, -4.62350, and is one of the most representative monuments of the historical civil architecture of the town. Its construction dates back to the 14th century, although some sources relate it to the Linajes de la Lama and, later, to Don Tello, Lord of Liébana. Later it passed to the house of Mendoza, linked to the Marquis of Santillana and the Duchy of Infantado, from which it takes its present name. In the 16th century an Italianate reform associated with the Dukes of Infantado is documented. Architecturally it is a square fortification, with several bodies, roof and defenses in the corners. It is built mainly in ashlar, with ashlar reinforcements in corners and openings. It retains a very marked image due to its crenellated appearance and the tower-manor house that made it a symbol of noble power in Liébana. It is currently of Cultural Interest and houses municipal offices and exhibition spaces. After its restoration, it was opened to the public with an exhibition dedicated to Beato de Liébana, reinforcing its role as a heritage and tourist resource of the first magnitude in Potes.