The Basque Country, straddling northern Spain and southwestern France, is a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be uncovered. From Bilbao’s modern marvels to San Sebastián’s historic charm, this region offers an exciting blend of cultural and natural wonders. Explore its world-class museums, stunning landscapes, and exceptional dining, and immerse yourself through one of Spain’s most captivating and lesser-known destinations.
The Basque Country’s Cultural and Natural Attractions
Mount Igeldo
At the end of La Concha Bay, Monte Igeldo marks the limit between the city and the sea. This historic spot combines past and present with its picturesque fairground and 1912 funicular railway. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Gipuzkoan coastline, and the Cantabrian Sea. The fairground’s old-fashioned attractions, like the wooden rollercoaster, offer a nostalgic experience for all ages.
Igeldo Cliffs
La Concha Beach
La Concha Beach is San Sebastián’s most iconic image, often featured in magazines and newspapers as the best beach in Europe and Spain. La Concha offers an incomparable setting in front of Santa Clara Island. Thousands of people enjoy its famous seaside promenade, strolling along the beach or dipping in its hypnotic waters. La Concha has a rich history; it became fashionable in 1845 when Queen Isabel II’s doctors recommended sea bathing for her skin problems. Her visits brought high-society aristocrats to the beach, earning it the nickname “Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea” and a reputation as one of the World’s most beautiful city beaches.
La Concha Beach
Peine del Viento (The Comb of the Wind)
Located at the end of Ondarreta Beach, Peine del Viento is one of the most celebrated sculptures by Basque artist Eduardo Chillida. Installed in 1977 by architect Luis Peña Ganchegui, this monument features terraces of pink granite and three iron shapes anchored into the rocks. It’s a magical spot to enjoy sea views, especially on stormy days when waves crash dramatically against the cliffs. The sculpture’s unique sound system, which allows waves to gush up in high columns, adds to the spectacle, particularly during heavy swells.
Part of Peine del Viento
San Sebastián Old Town
San Sebastián’s Old Town, situated at the foothills of Mount Urgull, is the city’s most visited area. Rebuilt after a fire in 1813, its lively streets are filled with shops, restaurants, and bars offering pintxos (miniature culinary masterpieces). Notable sites include the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, the Church of San Vicente, the San Telmo Museum, and Plaza de la Constitución, a historic square with colorful facades that once served as a bullring.
Basilica of Santa María del Coro
Buen Pastor Cathedral
Buen Pastor Cathedral, the largest religious building in San Sebastián, features a 75-meter-high Neo-Gothic tower visible from almost anywhere in the city. Designed by architect Manuel Echave and opened in 1897, the cathedral is built from Igeldo sandstone and adorned with stained glass windows, gargoyles, and pinnacles.
Buen Pastor Cathedral
Miramar Palace
Built as a summer residence for Queen María Cristina, Miramar Palace offers fantastic views of La Concha Bay. Completed in English style with Neo-Gothic elements, the palace and its 34,136 square meters of gardens are now open to the public. The palace hosts summer courses and concerts, adding to its historical charm.
Miramar Palace
Exploring Mount Hernio
Near San Sebastian and in the heart of the Basque Country, Spain, Mount Hernio (Ernio in Basque) is a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Located in the province of Gipuzkoa, near the historic town of Tolosa, this mountain offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The mountain is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Its lower slopes are covered with beech and oak forests, home to various bird species and small mammals. As you ascend, open meadows with wildflowers offer a visual treat.
Charlie and Cindy at Mt Hernio
Discovering Loyola
The Basque Country, rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, is home to many historical landmarks, none more impressive than the Sanctuary of Loyola. This grand religious monument is located in Azpeitia in Gipuzkoa and is essential in Basque and global history. Built between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, it centers around the Casa Torre, the birthplace of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit Order.
The Sanctuary of Loyola is an architectural marvel designed in the Baroque style with elements of grandeur and intricate detailing. The complex includes the Basilica of Loyola, a majestic church with a stunning dome, and the Casa Torre, a medieval tower house preserved and integrated into the sanctuary. This historical site attracts pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and architecture admirers worldwide.
Sanctuary of Loyola – Cindy Dykman
Mount Izarraitz: A Scenic Basque Adventure
For those seeking to experience the essence of the Basque Country, a journey to Mount Izarraitz offers a perfect blend of breathtaking mountain views, charming villages, and delightful local cuisine. Located in the province of Gipuzkoa, Mount Izarraitz provides an unforgettable adventure through narrow mountain roads, picturesque landscapes, and encounters with the region’s pastoral life.
The foothills of Mount Izarraitz offer stunning panoramic views. Here, you can marvel at the rugged beauty of the Basque mountains and gaze out over the distant coastline. The vantage points along the foothills provide perfect spots for photography and quiet reflection, allowing you to soak in the natural splendor.
A View from Mount Izarraitz – CIndy Dykman
Zumaia: Where Mountains Meet the Atlantic
In the Basque Country, where the green mountains abruptly meet the Atlantic Ocean, lies the charming town of Zumaia. This stunning coastal destination offers incredible views, a touch of geological wonder, and a refreshing short walk, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and casual explorers.
As you walk, the landscape transforms, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the vibrant greenery of the Basque hills on one side and the expansive blue of the Atlantic on the other.
The views from Zumaia’s cliffs are nothing short of spectacular. Every element contributes to the dramatic scenery, from the rugged coastline and jagged rock formations to the waves crashing against the cliffs. It’s a perfect place to pause, take photos, and marvel at nature’s raw beauty.
Cindy and Charlie at Zumaia
Getaria: The Epitome of a Basque Fishing Village
Nestled along the rugged Basque coastline, the charming fishing village of Getaria is a testament to the region’s rich maritime heritage. This picturesque village is renowned for its historical significance and well-preserved medieval center, which offers a glimpse into the past.
Walking through Getaria’s cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. The village’s medieval center is one of the most treasured in the Basque Country, reflecting the passing of centuries. The narrow alleys, stone houses, and historic buildings have been meticulously preserved, offering a quaint and authentic atmosphere. Key landmarks include the Church of San Salvador, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and various traditional Basque houses that line the streets.
Port of Getaria
Museum Culture in Basque Country
San Telmo Museum
In San Sebastián, the San Telmo Museum, housed in a former sixteenth-century Dominican convent, showcases Basque art and culture. It’s an excellent starting point to understand the region’s unique heritage.
San Telmo Museum
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
With its iconic titanium curves designed by Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a landmark that transformed Bilbao from an industrial port into a cultural hub. Inside and outside (don’t miss the giant spider sculpture, Maman, by Louise Bourgeois), the museum is a treasure trove of contemporary art.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Exploring the Basque Country’s Gastronomy
La Ribera Market
Head to La Ribera Market, Europe’s largest indoor food hall, to taste local life. Here, you’ll find an extensive selection of Basque meats, cheeses, and wines, making it a perfect spot to experience the region’s culinary delights.
La Ribera Market
Pintxos Bars
For a more casual dining experience, explore the pintxos bars. In Bilbao, Calle Ledesma is the place to be. Pintxos counters stay open late, serving delicious bite-sized snacks. In San Sebastián, La Cuchara de San Telmo offers mini plates of suckling pig, scallops, and beef cheeks, while Zeruko serves modern pintxos like a deconstructed potato omelet.
Your Home in Basque Country
The Artist Grand Hotel of Art
Art and architecture lovers should consider the Gran Hotel Domine, which is directly opposite the Guggenheim. The sleek, modern rooms and contemporary Basque cuisine at Beltz Restaurant make it an ideal choice. Request a room with a view of the museum for an unforgettable experience.
Grand Hotel Domine – Virtuoso
Hotel Maria Cristina, San Sebastián
In San Sebastián, the Hotel Maria Cristina offers luxurious, classically appointed rooms and is conveniently located near the Old Quarter and beaches. Don’t miss a cooking class at the on-site culinary school, Mimo San Sebastián, to enhance your culinary skills.
Hotel Maria Cristina – Virtuoso
The Basque Region offers a unique blend of cultural, culinary, and natural attractions that promise an enriching and memorable travel experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who enjoys scenic walks, Bilbao and San Sebastián have something unique to offer. Let Inspired Travel Designs craft you an unforgettable Basque Country experience through Virtuoso. Let’s Chat!
Produced by Inspired Travel Designs with Virtuoso, Donostia San Sebastián Turismoa and Euskadi Basque Country Official