The Basque Country has an infinite number of natural and urban options that attract thousands of tourists every year. However, this autonomous community is also home to other types of routes that, although perhaps not as popular, are pleasantly surprising to those who complete them. In this article we propose a road trip through the castles of the Basque Country, perfect for those interested in these fortifications.
We will check out the different fortresses that you can visit after renting a car in Bilbao. As a result, you won't have to worry about balancing your schedule with other types of transportation, but you can go from one castle to another as often as you want.
Road trip through the castles of the Basque Country
Before we start with the route, let us tell you that we have made a selection of some of the most impressive castles in the Basque Country, staying near to Bilbao. If you have more time, you can extend your visit and include some from across the border in France.
Castle of Butrón
The first castle that cannot be missed, and probably the best known, is the Castle of Butrón, in the municipality of Gatika, about 30 minutes from Bilbao. Although it is medieval in origin and dates back to the 8th century, its current appearance is the result of a profound 19th-century remodelling that gave it the appearance of a fantasy fortress, with pointed towers and combining various sizes.
Surrounded by a lush forest, Butrón looks like something out of a fairy tale. In fact, even just contemplating it from the outside and strolling around it is worth the visit. It is the perfect stop to get a taste of Basque history.
Torre Loizaga
In the valley of Las Encartaciones, less than an hour's drive from Bilbao, you will find Torre Loizaga (Loizaga Tower), a reconstructed fortress that today houses a surprising collection of classic cars. Beyond the museum, the walled complex allows you to get an idea of what the old tower houses that proliferated in the Middle Ages in this area were like.
This western part of Vizcaya is also full of B-roads that cross green landscapes and small rural towns, ideal for enjoying the environment.
Castle of Muñatones
Also in Las Encartaciones, in the municipality of Muskiz, is the Castle of Muñatones, one of the best examples of medieval military architecture in the Basque Country. Built in the 14th century by the Salazar family, it has witnessed several battles between opposing sides.
The castle retains its defensive structure, with walls, keep and inner courtyard. The visit allows you to understand the strategic importance of these constructions in a time of conflict.
La Mota Fortress
When you rent a car in Bilbao, it is easy to cross into Guipuzcoa and head towards San Sebastian. At the top of Mount Urgull stands Castillo de la Mota, a fortress that has defended the city since the 12th century and is easily seen thanks to the Sacred Heart statue that crowns it.
More than a conventional castle, it is a defensive complex that offers one of the best panoramic views of Playa de La Concha. The climb can be done on foot from the old town, and is certainly an experience that combines historical knowledge and an appreciation of the scenery.
San Telmo Castle
On the coast of Gipuzkoa, next to the spectacular Flysch cliffs, is the historic San Telmo Castle in Zumaia. This ancient fortification, linked to the area’s maritime defence, is part of a natural environment of great beauty.
By visiting it, you combine heritage and landscape in one. From here, the view of the cliff is even more spectacular, and the walk to the nearby chapel of San Telmo offers some of the most photogenic views of the entire Basque coast.
Arteaga Castle
On the way back to Vizcaya, in the heart of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, is Arteaga Castle. It dates back to the Middle Ages, although it was transformed in the 19th century into a neo-Gothic style palace by Napoleon III and Eugenia de Montijo.
Today it is a hotel that hosts events, something that is not surprising due to its majesty and privileged location between marshes and mountains.
How to make the road trip through the castles of the Basque Country
As we have discussed, renting a car in Bilbao not only allows you to organise a flexible route, but also gives you the freedom to decide where to stop, how long for and to combine leisure activities with the typical gastronomy of each area.
Exploring this route is, therefore, a different way to discover the Basque Country—less well known than its beaches or its cuisine, but just as fascinating. Rent your car at Bilbao airport with OK Mobility and get in touch with us so you don’t miss it!
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