The Cantabrian Mountains extend about 180 miles (300 kilometers), are geologically similar to the Pyrenees, though classifed as a separate formation.  The Cantabrian Mountains include many tall peaks, the highest being Torre de Cerredo (8,787 feet or 2,678 meters), and thus form a stonger and taller barrier than the Pyrenees.  The region is economically important for its coal and iron.