A tour of the Basque coast is something that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. Visiting some charming seaside towns and contemplating breathtaking natural landscapes is the objective of the proposed road trip along the Basque coast.
A route of just 120 kilometres (75 miles) between Hondarribia and Bilbao where you can stop at incredible viewpoints, stroll through the historic city centres and enjoy authentic natural spectacles.
How to take a road trip along the Basque Coast
The best way to travel this route is to rent a car in Bilbao to enjoy the freedom of being able to move from one place to another whenever you like and staying in each place as long as you want. Let's check out the spots you can't miss!
Hondarribia, the starting point
Setting off from Hondarribia means setting off from one of the most beautiful towns in the Basque Country. Here, the most interesting plan is to walk through its historic centre, full of cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. From Calle Mayor to the Plaza de Armas, passing through the Marina neighbourhood, this is a tour in which you can also enjoy its incredible gastronomy, where you will notice the influence of French cuisine, as it borders France.
San Sebastian, elegance by the sea
The next stop on the route is San Sebastian, along the coast. Arriving at La Concha beach is one of those moments that make the whole trip worthwhile. Once there, visits to the Miramar Palace, the Peine del Viento, the Buen Pastor Cathedral and the City Hall building, among other places, are a must. In general, strolling through the stately streets of San Sebastian is a delight. And, of course, you have to combine it with some good pintxos.
Zarautz, surfing tradition
Just 20 minutes separate San Sebastian from Zarautz, where the very long beach is one of the most famous sandy areas in northern Spain. Here the atmosphere is relaxed and jovial, with dozens of surfers coming in and out of the water throughout the year. Zarautz is, par excellence, one of the cradles of surfing in the Basque Country.
Zumaia and the Flysch cliffs
A stop in Zumaia is a must on this route along the Basque coast to marvel at the Flysch cliffs, vertical rock formations that are steepening the coastline and form one of the most spectacular landscapes along the Basque coastline. The viewpoint next to the hermitage of San Telmo offers unforgettable panoramic views, especially at sunset, when the light highlights the layers of rock.
Gernika, memory and identity
The route then enters Vizcaya to reach Gernika, a symbol of Basque history and identity. Some of the most interesting places to visit in this municipality are the Peace Museum, the Casa de las Juntas and the Tree of Gernika, as well as the Euskal Herria Museum.
The Urdaibai Reserve, nature in its purest form
Around Gernika is the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a mosaic of marshes, beaches and forests that constitutes one of the most valuable natural areas in the region. A leisurely detour is recommended, stopping at the viewpoints and observing the birds that find refuge in this estuary. And, if you have time, a visit to the Oma Forest, with its characteristic decorated trees, is also a highlight.
Elantxobe, the vertical village
In the heart of the Urdaibai reserve you find Elantxobe, one of the most special villages along the Basque coast for its verticality. The houses peer imposingly over the hillside above the harbour, creating an impressive sight.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a Basque icon
Few places have gained as much fame in recent years as San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, largely thanks to the series Game of Thrones. It is an islet which houses the hermitage of Gaztelugatxe, which is accessed via a staircase with more than 200 steps. Visitors started pouring in after it became the setting for Dragonstone in the hit HBO series.
Bilbao, the finishing touch
The route ends in Bilbao, a city that has managed to reinvent itself without losing its original character. The Guggenheim Museum is one of its most iconic sites, although you can't miss a stroll through the Seven Streets of the old town, the La Ribera market or the Cathedral of Santiago, as well as trying the best pintxos.
As you can see, a road trip along the Basque coast means going into the heart of nature, where the sea and the land come together to offer incredible views. At OK Mobility, we provide you with the car that best suits your family so you can enjoy an unforgettable trip together, where time seems to stand still. Rent your car with OK Mobility at Bilbao Airport.
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