The most beautiful coastal villages to visit in the Basque Country on the Spanish side

Are you wondering which are the most typical villages to visit in the Basque Country on the Spanish side? Do you want to take a walk on the coast of Biscay or Guipuzcoa? Come on, let's cross the border and take you on an excursion to meet the Basques of the south... We reveal our Top 10 coastal villages in the Spanish Basque Country.

Photo of the article © Guide du Pays Basque unless otherwise stated under the photos

Opening photo: Lekeitio by © David / Adobestock

No. 1: Pasai Donibane

Pasai Donibane is a very old fishing village . You will appreciate its architectural heritage, with beautiful stone buildings. You will see 17th century houses, charming gardens, a pretty church… It is very pleasant to stroll through its cobbled streets. A walk along its marina and its fishing port is a must to soak up the atmosphere of the village. You will find many fish restaurants nearby. The village is surrounded by hills and valleys, suitable for hiking.

No. 2: Getaria

Getaria is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country on the Spanish side. It occupies a small peninsula and gives the impression of being on an island in the middle of the ocean. At the end of this peninsula, you can cross the Aldamar Park to reach the Getaria Lighthouse. Its fishing port is very typical. Let yourself be told the story of a child from the village, one of the first navigators who circumnavigated the globe. Fashion has also settled in Getaria, where the famous Balanciaga brand was born. A museum is dedicated to him.

No. 3: Zumaia

Zumaia is a small village perched in the hills. There you will find two beaches. Santiago beach is a small beach, nestled in the mouth. A promenade has been laid out there and offers a beautiful panorama of the ocean and the mouth of the Urola. Itzurun beach is famous for its "Flysch", beautiful geological formations. It is on this beach that some scenes of the series "Game of Thrones" were filmed.

No. 4: Mutriku

Mutriku is a fishing village. Its fish market is renowned. It is a lively place, which deserves a visit. There is also a marina, where you can take a walk. The village is very old and still houses medieval buildings. Mutriku has a very small beach, protected from winds and currents. It is intimate and family. If you like to walk, the surroundings are unspoiled natural areas, with beautiful forests.

Photo credit © Julen | AdobeStock

No. 5: Ondarroa

Ondarroa is located on the border between Biscay and Giupuscoa. It is an important fishing port, in the mouth of the Artibai. The village has a beautiful heritage, including its Santa Maria church, the old bridge, the old town hall. Take advantage of your walking tour to stroll through its medieval streets. At the exit of the village, you can relax on its two small beaches: Arrigorri and Saturranan.

No. 6: Lekeitio

Lekeito benefits from an exceptional environment, between sea and mountains. During your visit to the village, you can admire the Basilica of the Ascuncion de Santa Maria and the Santa Catalina Lighthouse. There are beautiful walks to do around. We also advise you to go to the island of San Nicolas.

Photo Credit © David | AdobeStock

No. 7: Ea

Ea is a very small village, overlooking a creek. The coast around it is quite steep. So even if the beach, at the end of the village, is narrow and very long, it is very pleasant for families. In the surroundings, you will nevertheless find small creeks, but access is more difficult for children. The village has a lot of charm, with old buildings and an old bridge.

No. 8: Elantxobe

Elantxobe is a village suspended on the hills. Its environment is natural and forest. It is typical of the Spanish Basque Country, with its colorful houses and steep streets. At its feet, its fishing port offers you an overview of the village, surrounded by mountains. The curiosity not to be missed is its bus stop! The streets being too narrow to allow large vehicles to pass, this bus stop took the form of a roundabout for buses.

No. 9: Bermeo

Bermeo is an important fishing site in the Busturialdea region. It is placed on a hill which goes down to the sea. Many monuments are to be discovered, in particular the sculpture of Nestor Basterretxea, the Museum of the Fisherman, or the church of Santa Eufemia.

No. 10: Mundaka

Mundaka is a village that has become famous for its waves! Many surfers go there for the famous left wave, one of the longest in the world. It is also a fishing village, with pretty houses that are built around the port.

We hope that this walk along the coast has made you want to discover the Basque Country on the Spanish side.

Did you like this report? Find more on the Basque Country Guide blog. Discover others by subscribing to the Facebook page of the Basque Country Guide. We also have an Instagram page @guidedupaysbasque