Biscay- The seaside and contemporary coast

To the west of Gipuzkoa, Biscay is a territory whose capital is Bilbao. Its 150 km of coastline are attractive and its coastal towns and villages are dynamic. It is the most populated territory in the entire Basque Country. Here you can find respect for traditions and the modernity of a young territory, always changing. Medieval villages, mountains with breathtaking views, heritage of great interest, it is a perfect destination for those who love diversity, the bustle of big cities and the calm of rural towns...

Map of Biscay

The coast and cliffs of Biscay

Ondarroa, Lekeitio and the coast

We begin the visit of Biscay, with a place that sets the tone: Ondarroa is a large fishing port. It is a pleasant place to spend a day, away from the tourist flow.

You can eat in good restaurants that will be proud to serve you specialties from the port. It is now accessed by a pretty modern bridge. On the steep slopes, you will find the old town . Cross the old bridge to discover a beautiful viewpoint over the Bay of Biscay. Stop at the Likona tower and the Gothic church of Santa Maria. Maybe this will make you want to go and dip your feet in it? Go to Saturraran beach. Here, as in the western tip of Gipuzkoa where the neighboring town of Deba is located, you will find Flyschs, these folds of sandstone and schist. Observe in particular the Rocher des Moines.

The fishing port of Ondarroa

Catch of the day

The Rock of the Monks

Lekeitio is a pleasant little coastal and fishing town, which stands out for its small bay and its Isla de Garraitz (or San Nicolas its second name). You can access it at low tide and thus enjoy a beautiful view of the town and its colorful Basque houses that are scattered on the hillside of the Otoio mountain.

For swimming, there are two nice little beaches in Leketitio: Karraspio and Isuntza. History tells us that a certain rivalry was created (which still persists on occasion...) with the neighboring town of Ondarroa. For the tourist, nothing more will result from this than chauvinistic jokes here and there.

Take a stroll to see the 15th century town hall, the beautiful Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady and its gilded altarpiece, the Baroque palaces and the two towers including that of Zahar which is the oldest in the city.

During a walk along a 2km coastal path located in Lekeito, take a tour of the Santa Catalina Lighthouse, where there is a navigation interpretation center.

Coastal town of Lekeitio

Isla de Garraitz or San Nicolas and the port of Lekeitio

Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

Fancy mountains and forests? Head to Kortezubi further south in the mountains. It is a place rich in caves and chasms and the landscape heritage is remarkable. You are also in the heart of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.

The Santimamiñe cave is open to the public and there is also an interpretation centre and a virtual tour of this mecca of cave painting in the Basque Country. Don't be disappointed and go see the captivating Painted Forest of about 5 ha, the Oma Forest, where the artist Agustín Ibarrola has made Land Art with painting on the trees.

Have you seen any animals in the forest? To see them up close, visit the Basondo refuge where injured, confiscated or endangered animals are welcomed and well treated. A large natural park that will please children and a pleasant occupation for half a day.

Heading towards Guernica, you arrive at Urdaibai Bird Center, which has information on migratory birds and the birdlife of the area. A place to discover even for amateur visitors!

Urdaibai Bird Center Museum with an exhibition of photographs of migratory birds

Guernica, a symbol

We arrive at Gernika-Lumo (Guernica), a city that art lovers and most schoolchildren know from the brushstrokes of Picasso. It is one of the historical and spiritual capitals of the Basque Country. It was two-thirds destroyed by bombing in April 1937. Fires spread and then ravaged the city and its inhabitants. Considered one of the first massacres of civilians by air forces at that time, this raid shocked people's minds. Many artists seized on it to symbolize their rejection of war.

When passing through the city, go and see the Tree of Gernika near Casa de Juntas (House of Assemblies), the symbol of the political importance of the city. It was under its leaves (another tree at the time) that the autonomy of the Basque people in the Middle Ages was decided.

Visit the Peace Museum (Museo de la Paz), which is moving and full of reflections.

Also explore the Museo Euskal Herria Museoa which offers an ethnographic scenography of the Basque people and culture.

Painting by Picasso "Guernica" Gernikara

The Tree of Gernika, the symbol of the political importance of the city

The Peace Museum (Museo de la Paz)

Elantxobe, Mundaka, Bermeo, Bakiobeach and surfing

Elantxobe is a village that will make you understand the true meaning of the word " steep ". The houses are clinging to the slope of Cape Ogoño, and it is so steep that there is an access from the bottom of the town and another from the top. It is very pleasant to walk around, but you really need good shoes.

It is a small fishing port. Have fun going to see the bus stop where a turntable rotates the coaches which, without this ingenious system, would not be able to turn around!

Not far away, there is Ibarrangelu, hidden behind Cape Ogoño and protected. Its main attraction are the two superb beaches of Laida and Laga. In the heart of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, Ibanrrangelu perfectly sums up its attractions: wetlands, a rich landscape heritage that combines with the architectural heritage. In the center, go see the pediment and the church whose wooden frame is superb.

Elantxobe

The cliffs of Elantxobe

Mundaka, this is where you should take your surfboard. There is a world famous left wave, beautiful and perfect, which can reach 5m in height. It is famous and for this reason, the surfer population is cosmopolitan in this place! Be careful, however, it is recommended for experienced surfers…

Mundaka is not just a wave, it is also a cute village that smells of iodine. You can see beautiful palaces and buildings like the hermitage of Santa Catalina with its beautiful view.

There is also a shopping place not to be missed: Mundaka BC, which sells Basque clothing brands.

Surfing in Mundaka

We continue to the west, Bermeo is an interesting town-village that will please lovers of long strolls by the sea. In the region of Busturialdea, it is also a large fishing port of Cantabria.

Start with a tour of the city, which like many in Biscay is quite steep. The multi-coloured houses are interspersed with pretty palaces and charming houses.

Go through the Tower of Ercilla, the only survivor of the 30 towers that surrounded the city in medieval times. Do not miss the cloister of the church of Santa Maria with its recent architecture and that of Santa Eufemia which, on the contrary, is the oldest. As you walk through the city, you will see remains of walls.

As you head towards the port, you will see a park where summer festivities take place. It connects to the port. On the latter, there are some boats that you can visit, such as the "Aita Guria" whaling interpretation center in a 17th century whaling ship. Picturesque…

It is at the water's edge that Bermeo offers its most beautiful walk, the rock island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. It is a very beautiful place with many stairs that will remind Game of Thrones fans of Dragonstone... Some scenes were filmed there!

There is a whole string of small islands to discover : Akatz Island, Izaro Island...

And for a peaceful swim in calm water, Aritzatxu Beach, a sort of delightfully blue little cove... If you have time, take a boat trip to admire the coast and approach the islands.

Berméo and its port

Continue along the coast towards Bakio to admire the view from its cliffs. At sunrise, it is a treat (towards the Askada belvedere, or from Birjilanda). In town, a route proposed by the town hall offers you a visit to the heritage, palaces, and beautiful residences.

Don't miss the very interesting Txakolingunea museum to learn all about this fruity and very sweet wine. You can take guided tours of the museum, by appointment and even a tasting, hmm...! If you have time, go to the San Pelayo hermitage which is a peaceful place surrounded by mountains.

The Txakoli vineyards

Gorliz, Sopela, Getxo, Mungia, just before Bilbao

Gorliz is a popular tourist spot. There are many holiday accommodations. This is normal, the bay is beautiful and lends itself to a multitude of water activities in season and all year round for those who are less sensitive to the cold. There is a large beach of more than 800m that will please lovers of sunbathing and beach games. You can cycle and walk along the promenade where you will come across the Gorliz Hospital, a large building with a modern design. There are buses and even a metro to go to Bilbao, which is why many city dwellers come to walk there on weekends.

Towards Bilbao, just 25 km from the city, there is Plentzia beach and its pretty little medieval town and its Ria (bay), as well as the beaches of Barrika.

The great beach of Gorliz

Gorliz Hospital

Sopela is a town that has bet on its natural space to develop leisure and sports activities. The beautiful and large beach is bordered by steep cliffs that frame the panorama. If you want to try surfing, mountain biking or why not play golf or paragliding and visit the region rich in attractive locations (not far from Bilbao), this is the perfect place.

In Sopela there are also beaches reserved for nudism such as Arrietara-Atxabiribil or Meñakoz if you want to be quieter in the small coves. The sea is rough in Sopela, the cliffs make the place sometimes difficult to access, so you can swim there, but be careful.

Paragliding by the sea

Getxo is north of Bilbao. We go there for its beaches and its port. It is a tourist spot. Go see the pretty metal suspension bridge of Biscay (Puente Bizkaia). It is a transporter bridge like you rarely see! You can take it or climb to the top to walk there (expensive, but the view is breathtaking). It is a large municipality with 5 urban areas, which offer many attractions.

Take the cliff road (the coast is 10 km long, but the walk is short) and stop at the Moulin d'Aixerrota and the Fort de La Galea, a military construction that dates back to the 18th century. The Phare de La Galea was used to monitor whales.

In the Algorta district, go see the fishing port and the palaces by the sea. It is a friendly place to go out in the evening, to eat pintxos. Go up to the Mirador d'Usategi for a beautiful view. Sea excursions are organized in Getxo and those who want to practice water sports will find clubs near the coast. To occupy the children if it rains, there is a small aquarium with beautiful reef fish for an affordable price.

Biscay Suspension Metal Bridge

Fancy a holiday just a stone's throw from Bilbao but away from the hustle and bustle? Choose Mungia, which is very well connected to the surrounding towns and has all the good points of a pleasant holiday destination. Stroll through the city centre to see the Fuente de la Concordia (Fountain of Concord), the Villela-Torrebillela tower house. Around the city, there are farms and mills, the Landetxo Goikoa farm is among the oldest in the province. Children will be happy to stop at the theme park focusing on Basque legends and culture Izenaduba Basoa (book in advance online, to avoid the queues).

vibrant bilbao

We arrive in Bilbao which is the capital of the province of Biscay and one of the largest cities in the Basque Country with 350,000 inhabitants (1 million in the metropolis). It is a place rich in colors and flavors, with an attractive cultural and nightlife!

On holiday in Bilbao, you will not be bored... It is a city founded in 1300, 300 years later, it became the capital of Biscay thanks to its rich economic activities around iron ore , shipbuilding and agriculture. The magnificent coast is undoubtedly not for nothing and the city was one of the richest in Spain at the beginning of the last century. Bilbao suffered, like many industrial cities, from a graying image with the decline of its primary activities and that is why it was renovated in the 90s. The brownfield sites and abandoned industrial complexes are being put back into service, tourism is being encouraged with the revitalization of the banks of the Nervion River. In 2004 Bilbao was rewarded for its efforts and its ambitious and well-conducted restoration policy. It should be noted that considerable efforts have been made to make it a clean city, a model which interests other urban centres which wish to provide a pleasant living environment for their inhabitants.

Bilbao

Bilbao enjoys an oceanic climate that makes it mild all year round. It is easy to get there thanks to the large international airport and to get around, a multitude of public transport exist: bus, metro, tram etc. The two main centers of the city (the new and old town) are easy to explore on foot.

Bike ride in the city

Bilbao Tram and Velib

Bilbao Museums

The reconstruction of Bilbao was orchestrated around a magnificent museum, very famous and which we recommend you visit even if you are not a fan of modern art : the Guggenheim Museum which opened in 1997. Walking around is already an artistic discovery, since life-size works (including a giant vegetated dog) decorate the forecourt. Inside the modern and refined building, sculptures, paintings from the 50s to today. A wonder! Not far from the museum, there is a very beautiful park, the Republica de Abando Park (which was occupied by industrial wasteland before the renovation of the city) you will see the Iberdrola Tower, 41 floors high. To continue the cultural visits in Bilbao, you have the choice because there are 11 museums scattered around the city :

• The Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes) is much older and displays works from the 12th century to the present day.
• The Basque Museum to learn more about the daily life of the Basques and their way of life.
• The Maritime Museum of the Ría de Bilbao, which traces the city's shipbuilding know-how.
• The museum of artistic reproductions, for those who want to travel without leaving Bilbao. An amazing collection of works from all over the world, reproduced with care and all gathered in one place!
• The Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art, with permanent and temporary exhibitions and guided tours of the city for those interested in religious heritage.
• Do you love football? Check out the Athletic Club's trophy and exhibition room, and you can also take tours of the city's stadium.
• It is frequented by schools, but you can request guided tours by calling the Basque Nationalism Museum, for those interested in the history of Basque nationalism.
• The Museum of Pasos de Bilbao focuses its scenography on the processions and the history of Holy Week in Bilbao, a major annual event.
• The Archaeological Museum is an unmissable event for anyone interested in the history of humanity in Biscay, a land rich in prehistoric artifacts.
• The Bullfighting Museum is dedicated to bullfighting, bullfighting traditions and cow games.
  

Guggenheim Museum

The spider in front of the Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum Tulip Dog

From the Guggenheim Museum, set off to discover the 19th century districts of the city from Ensanche. A modern architectural ensemble, the Gran Vía, is available to you, in the continuity of the museum. This is the place to see beautiful boutiques on the commercial arteries, a bourgeois district. At the beginning of this district, the neo-baroque Arriaga Theater is magnificent with the Paseo Arenal park just opposite. You are not very far from the Abando Station and its very large glass roof.

Bus Tour in the bourgeois district to visit the city

Bilbao Theatre

We continue with modern architecture. If you like it, go see Alhondiga, an old wine warehouse that designer Philippe Starck stormed to modernize it. The cultural center, Azkuna Zentroa, is located inside this large building. What you will like are the 43 unique and astonishing columns that support the 3 red brick modules that seem to float...

Do you prefer to feel the historic heart of Bilbao beat? Go to the Casco Viejo, the medieval city that is concentrated around 7 streets (the Zazpi Kaleak). This is where you will find the pedestrian areas, the lively little bars where you can enjoy pintxos at any time and until late at night (especially on the large Plaza Nueva). In summer, it is a place that is stormed because the narrow streets and tall buildings are conducive to a saving shade. In this district, the typical Basque facades compete in colors, it is a festival, the Plaza Miguel Unamuno is a good example.

A cultural break? Go see the 13th century Santiago Cathedral. Then climb the grand staircase of Mallona (300 steps...) to reach the hill where the Basilica of Begoña is located, admire its imposing Renaissance portal with columns. The basilica houses the Virgin of Begoña, very important for the people of Bilbay and celebrated during festivities in August and October. This reminds us that the Way of Saint James (the northern way) crosses the city, let's even say that it was built around the way that is much older and which is still today, an important economic and tourist attraction.

The Old Town

Bilbao Cathedral

Not to be missed in Bilbao!

• To discover local products, feast your eyes and wander around the stalls, go to the Mercado de la Ribera, a large covered market (the largest in Europe) of 10,000 m2 in art deco style open 6/7 days a week.
• For a nice view of the city, take the Funicular de Artantxa to the top of Mount Artxanda. There is a nice little park to walk around.
• The metro ! More than a practical and modern means of transport (which dates from 1988), appreciate its design, starting with the entrances and their glass domes (fosteritos).
• Take a stroll on the Zubizuri Bridge, a very modern architecture with its arched path. It was originally provided with a transparent floor, but it was too slippery and had to be covered. It is a rather controversial subject in the city...
  

On the right, the Mercado de la Ribera, the largest covered market in Europe

Zubizuri Bridge

A stone's throw from Bilbao

If Bilbao acts as a magnet, there are no less charming towns nearby! Barakaldo is located on the left bank of the Nervion estuary and in the suburbs of Bilbao. It is a populated place, where there is a congress center (the Bilbao Exhibition Center) which hosts many sports activities, concerts, fairs and other events popular with the people of Bilbao. It is a pleasant city with pretty green spaces like the Botanical Garden where you can walk in all seasons and the Munoa park. Lovers of beautiful cars will be happy to visit the Mercedes-Benz museum which houses some little gems...

Just a few kilometres from these active urban centres is the Trapaga Valley, a haven of greenery that was once rich in mining activity. Today, with the cessation of these activities, the municipality has transformed the area into small fishing lakes (lagoons in the old mining quarries) and recreational areas. Stroll through the Arboleda neighbourhood where you will see wooden houses and can go hiking. To enjoy a beautiful view of the area, take the very steep Reineta funicular which will take you to the Mining Museum.

Trapaga Valley

We return along the estuary to go to Portugalete. It is located on the other side of the famous Pont de la Vizcaya, the transporter bridge that connects it to Getxo. It is a seafaring city with an old medieval quarter where you will see the Tower of Salazar, restaurants and the Museum of Industry to understand the economic boom of the Ria. To the north, is Santurtzi, a port city in front of the Serantes mountain, where you can go on nice and accessible hikes. The view is superb from the viewpoint at the top. Santurzi is a popular place for sea trips, many excursions can start there. It is also the place to taste seafood, especially sardines. Stroll through the open-air sculpture museum where many sculptures can be appreciated during a walk.

© AdobeStock_jon_chica

Zierbena, Muskiz, Sopuerta

Zierbena is about twenty minutes from Bilbao. It is a quiet and charming fishing village. There is a large beach of more than 900 m long, as well as a smaller and quieter one, ideal for children. Of course, you can eat very good fish there and it is pleasant to cycle there, taking advantage of the cycle path that goes to Portugalete. For walkers who like to climb, go to the Punta Lucero cape from where a beautiful view awaits you.

In Muskiz, we leave the estuary to reach the coast of Cantabria. It is one of the last coastal towns of Biscay. Beach, cliffs and walks on the program.

Along the coast, the Itsaslur cliff walk is a must: it follows an old railway line and offers a beautiful view of the coast. The Cobaron Cliffs are also ideal for beautiful views.

A small museum is interesting to visit: Ferreria El Pobal, a heritage complex of 16th century forges.

The beaches and cliffs and Muskiz

Sopuerta is a town south of Muskiz, which also has a mining past. Being a very old and well-preserved municipality, it has an interesting architectural wealth that is worth a visit. Observe its many towers and in particular the Casa de Juntas de Abellaneda, an old oven, which houses a museum on this region of Encartaciones. This is the place to learn more about the industrial history and the fortified tower alone is a witness to the past.