Discover Orio: authentic village of Guipuzcoa

Orio is located on the side of Guipuzcoa.This traditional fishing village is less than 20 km from San Sebastian and is worth a stop. Essentially known for its river port, it is tending to become a seaside village thanks to the developments made around its two beaches. In addition, it is very famous among hikers who walk on the famous road to Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle and who have made a habit of stopping off there.

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An economy once based on fishing

Located at the mouth of the Oria river, the fishing port was previously the main economy of the pretty village of Orio. Today the fishermen are still present and although the soul of the sea still prowls in the minds of the inhabitants, it is necessary to diversify the economic activities...

Passion for the sea even on the walls

During your stop , take a stroll through the historic heart. Stroll through the narrow alleys. Look up, observe the peculiarities of each house, each plot. Lose yourself and take the time to contemplate your surroundings. Let your gaze roam your surroundings and appreciate the tranquility and the sweetness of life in this place.

 

 

Stroll between the alleys made up of pretty ocher houses

Don't forget to go to the port. Depending on the schedule and the tide, you may be lucky enough to see a few boats leaving the port, or returning to the holds loaded with food and exhausted by several days of navigation.

At mealtimes, you will be surprised to smell the toast. Here, it is a local specialty. Sit at the table of an asador (restaurant offering wood-fired cooking) and savor delicious products from the sea (or not) and cooked with passion and enthusiasm.

Taste local specialties in an asador

Beaches and golden sand

Little by little, the village expands, transforms and evolves according to the developments. Both beaches have undergone improvements and are now a major attraction of the municipality.

Antilla is the most frequented, while Oribazar, remains more intimate.

Oribazar beach, quieter and quieter than Antilla

Antilla experiences a very high number of visitors as soon as the warm weather arrives, which gives Orio an air of a seaside resort. According to your desires, you can take advantage of the large beach to relax on your towel or swim, walk along the dike or towards the marina.

Stunning landscapes frame Antilla Beach

View of Orio Marina

Here, children are not left out. A playground is intended for them, with in particular a few swings. The place is very lively in the summer season, with bars and restaurants offering a variety of meals and snacks at any time of the day.

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The road to Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle

The Via Crucis

The via crucis represents part of the road leading to Santiago de Compostela. It passes through the hermitage of San Martin and ends at the church of San Nikolas de Bari. It is easy to recognize thanks to the plates which mark the crossing.

This plaque means that you are on one of the Santiago de Compostela trails

San Martin hermitage

Depending on the time you have available, you can head to the San Martin hermitage which is located not far from the historic heart. Built in the 12th century, then renovated during the 16th century, this old building was built on a hill and dominates a green environment.

 

The hermitage of San Martin bears witness to the great frequentation of the Via Crucis by pilgrims

Testimonies in the historic heart

Another great asset of Orio is the fact that the village is crossed by the Camino de Santiago. For several hundred years, this place has been an unconditional stopover for pilgrims. Today, pilgrims and hikers share this mythical route. The one that crosses the village is the coastal path, also called Camino del Norte, because there are many ways to reach Santiago.

As you walk through the narrow streets of Orio, you will come face to face with the Church of San Nikolas de Bari. Dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen and travelers, it is worth a look outside! Dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, it surprises with its atrium which, like a walkway, goes around the building. The views are interesting and varied depending on where you are.

 

The Church of San Nikolas de Bari proudly sits in the middle of the village

The region of Guipuzcoa promises you unique moments of discovery. Between history and nature, beach and architectural heritage, activities and relaxation. There is something for all tastes and all ages! And if you appreciate the typicality of fishing villages, this region will delight you. They are numerous along the Cantabrian Sea, from Hondarribia, to Deba, passing through Pasaia, Getaria and Zumaia.

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Article and photos prepared by Charline Prod'homme, La Plume Digitale

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