Autumn in Cantabria: Rain, Green Hills & Cozy Charm

If you’ve heard that Cantabria is rainy, you’re not entirely wrong — but it’s not the full story either. Autumn has just arrived here, and with it comes the first real shift in the seasons. After a warm, dry summer, the skies have opened up, the air feels fresher, and the landscape is quickly turning a deeper shade of green.

So, how much rain are we talking about?

Cantabria receives around 1,100 to 1,200 mm of rainfall per year — on par with Paris or London. Most of it falls in the autumn and winter months, so right now we’re entering the wetter season. But this doesn’t mean endless grey days. Rain often comes in bursts, clearing to reveal crisp skies, golden light, and that unmistakable smell of fresh earth.

The upsides of autumn rain?

This is when Cantabria truly lives up to its “España Verde” (Green Spain) name. Rolling hills, mountain trails, and coastal cliffs are even more dramatic under shifting skies. Vineyards, apple orchards, and forests are alive with seasonal colour — think Ireland-meets-Spain, with chestnuts, cider, and local wine to match.

What the locals know

In Cantabria, the weather can change quickly. A misty morning might break into a bright afternoon, or a shower can pass in minutes. Locals embrace it — swapping beach towels for rain jackets, and heading to the mountains or cozy cafés when the weather turns.

Thinking of relocating to Northern Spain?

Don’t let the myths about rain hold you back. Many people actually move to Cantabria because of this fresher, greener climate — especially as heatwaves become more intense across southern Europe. Autumn here is proof that the seasons bring their own beauty.

As relocation agents, we help you navigate everything — from finding the right town for your lifestyle to managing the paperwork that comes with moving abroad.

Message us if you’re ready for a fresh start in one of Spain’s most beautiful (and underrated) regions.