Basque Country Cycling Tour

The excursion starts in Bilbao, which is the biggest city in the Basque region and blends contemporary elements with rich cultural history. You will be transported from Bilbao airport or train station to your hotel, where you can discover the remarkable Guggenheim Museum or stroll through the quaint lanes of the Old Town, which boasts several excellent pintxos bars.

You will depart from Bilbao on peaceful roads, ascending from the valley and into the stunning countryside of the Biscay area. The path travels over undulating terrain through a combination of forests and open green pastures before reaching the historic town of Gernika, famous thanks to Pablo Picasso’s painting, which portrayed the atrocities of the Spanish Civil War. Gernika was once the historic capital of the Basque region and a center of resistance against Franco, the fascist dictator, during the war. Here, you can also explore some Roman ruins and relish the delicious tapas bars that line the pedestrianized streets of the old town.

Today’s route departs from Gernika and enters the Urdaibai Natural Park, which is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park is renowned for its expansive, uncrowded beaches and stunning coastline, and is a preferred destination for bird watchers. Continuing on, the route follows a rolling path along the tranquil coastal road, passing through quaint villages before arriving at the fishing town of Lekeitio where you’ll spend the night.

As you travel along the coastline, you will pass through the charming towns of Ondarroa and Deba on an undulating route. Next, you will ascend the Azurki mountain, where you can explore the Caves of Ekain, which are home to some of Spain’s best-preserved cave paintings. Your destination for the evening is the stunning village of Getaria, situated on a picturesque small peninsula. Here, you will stay in a delightful boutique hotel located in the heart of the old town and have the chance to sample the local txakoli wine, produced on the surrounding hillsides.

Getaria has been inhabited since Roman times and is the birthplace of Juan Sebastian Elcano, the first person to complete a circumnavigation of the world that began with Ferdinand Magellan. Additionally, fashion designer Cristobal Balenciaga hails from Getaria, and there is a large museum dedicated to his works in the town.

Today, you have the option of taking a day off to rest, as you will be staying an extra night in the lovely village of Getaria. During this time, you can relax on the beach, explore the narrow streets of the old town, visit the Balenciaga fashion museum, or participate in a wine tasting at one of the many local vineyards.

However, if you prefer to continue cycling, there is an excellent circular route available. This route begins by venturing inland through the charming vineyards that encircle the slopes of Getaria. You will then enter the Pagoeta Natural Park, an idyllic rural region characterized by verdant green countryside. The journey concludes with a return to Getaria through the town of Zarautz, which boasts one of Northern Spain’s largest and most spectacular beaches and is a great location for lunch.

Today’s route departs from Getaria and follows the traditional Camino de Santiago path, culminating at a breathtaking vantage point overlooking San Sebastian. The scenery en route is spectacular, with vibrant green fields, golden beaches, and the blue sea blending together to create an idyllic ambiance. For lunch, you can stop at a traditional sidrería, a Basque cultural institution that serves as both a restaurant and a meeting place. After arriving at San Sebastian, you are free to discover the charms and allure of this gorgeous city at your leisure.

You will depart from San Sebastian and the Basque country with wonderful memories. We hope this trip will remain a positive experience and a great journey through the north of Spain.