País Vasco, a region Located along the northern coast of Spain,is renowned for its distinct cultural heritage,scenic landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine.
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: A striking architectural masterpiece, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao houses an impressive collection of contemporary art and stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s transformation.
- San Sebastián’s Beaches: Discover the splendid coastline of San Sebastián, featuring golden sandy beaches such as La Concha and Zurriola. Embrace the atmosphere, indulge in water sports, or simply soak up the sun.
- Casco Viejo, Bilbao: Stroll through the streets of Bilbao’s Old Town, Casco Viejo, where historic architecture mingles with thriving boutiques, traditional bars known as “pintxos,” and lively markets offering an immersive cultural experience.
- Vitoria-Gasteiz: Explore the green capital city of the Basque Country. Admire its medieval architecture, visit the Santa Maria Cathedral, and take a peaceful walk along the enchanting parks, notably Parque de la Florida.
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve: Immerse yourself in nature at this UNESCO-listed reserve. With its diverse ecosystems, landscapes, and abundant birdlife, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Gaztelugatxe: Experience the magic of Gaztelugatxe, a islet crowned by a centuries-old hermitage. Cross the stone bridge to reach the top, taking in the panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
- Getaria: Visit the coastal town of Getaria, famous for its seafood and as the birthplace of fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga. Wander through winding streets, visit the Balenciaga Museum, and enjoy a seafood meal by the harbour.
- Alhóndiga Bilbao: Explore the multifunctional cultural centre housed in a former wine warehouse. Admire its architecture, catch a film screening, or relax on its rooftop hosting a swimming pool and panoramic views.
- Hondarribia: Step back in time as you wander through the streets of Hondarribia’s fortified old town. Enjoy views of the Basque coast, savor fresh seafood, and delve into the town’s history.
- Txakoli Wineries: Embark on a wine tasting journey in the rolling vineyards of País Vasco. Sample the refreshing and distinctive local white wine, Txakoli, while discovering the winemaking traditions of the region.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Treasures:
- Oñati: A hidden gem, this town is famous for its baroque architectural gems, notably the University of Oñati. Embark on a guided tour to learn about the town’s history and explore its streets.
- Lekeitio: Discover a fishing village with a charm. Here, you can wander along its historic port, admire its Gothic church, and witness the tradition of the “Levantine” rowing competition.
- Balmaseda: Visit one of the oldest towns in País Vasco, hosting medieval architecture and history. Explore the Gothic Bridge, enjoy a riverside walk, and visit the Ethnographic and Historical Museum.
- Santimamiñe Caves: Embark on an underground adventure in the Santimamiñe Cave Complex. Admire prehistoric rock art, learn about the region’s ancient inhabitants, and delve into its archaeological significance.
- The Flysch Route: Embark on a scenic coastal hike along the Flysch Route, which stretches from Zumaia to Deba. Admire the dramatic geological formations and fossils dating back millions of years.
- Azurmendi Restaurant: Experience a culinary delight at Azurmendi, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Larrabetzu. Enjoy a gastronomic feast that merges cutting-edge techniques with local ingredients and sustainability.
- Ainhoa: Venture into the village of Ainhoa, known for its well-preserved Basque architecture. Take a leisurely walk through the cobbled streets and soak up the tranquility of this countryside retreat.
- Zumaia: Wander through the narrow streets of Zumaia, a coastal gem offering views of the Bay of Biscay. Explore the town’s Gothic church, take a dip in the swimmable pools.
