6 must-see places in Biscay

Biscay is a province in the northern Basque Country, on the Spanish side. It's a surprising region, both innovative and authentic. Its capital, Bilbao, Biscay reflects its character. A renovated, modern, and dynamic city that has nonetheless retained its charm. Its coastline is wild and rugged. Its hinterland is natural and unspoiled. To help you discover its many facets, we've selected the must-see sites of Biscay.

Cover photo: San Juan Gaztelugatxe.

No. 1: Bilbao, the capital of Biscay

Wondering why you should visit Bilbao ? We'll help you answer that question! And to do so, we'll tell you what the best things to do in Bilbao are:

• Which is the most typical area to soak up the atmosphere of Bilbao? Casco Viejo, the historic old town of Bilbao.
• What is the most beautiful view of the city? From Mount Artantxa, using the funicular.
• Where to walk in Bilbao? In the Ribera Park which stretches along the banks of the Ria Bilbao, with a lovely playground for children.
• What to do as a family? Introduce the youngest to modern art, thanks to Puppy, the flowery dog from the Guggenheim Museum.

No. 2: The San Juan Gaztelugatxe Peninsula

North of Bilbao, the Gaztelugatxe Peninsula is an extraordinary site with exceptional panoramic views. It's an unusual place, a blend of history, age-old traditions, and legend. Here's why we chose this location:

• An extraordinary walk: With its 241 steps to access the site, you take a path steeped in legend and mystery…
• An extraordinary viewpoint: The panorama from the top of the rock is absolutely beautiful.
• A historical site: This is a 19th century chapel, built on the ruins of an ancient Hermitage of Saint John the Baptist, dating from the 9^th century.
• A Basque tradition: Don't forget to ring the bell of legends in the chapel of San-Juan three times, as tradition dictates.
• An unusual anecdote: The Gaztelugatxe Peninsula was chosen for the filming of some scenes from the series "Game of Thrones".

No. 3: The Urdaibai Nature Reserve

The mouth of the Oka River is located in the Mundaka region. This confluence of the river and the Atlantic Ocean creates a unique environment and breathtaking landscapes. The brackish, semi-fresh, semi-salt waters are conducive to the development of flora and fauna specific to this natural environment. You will therefore see some unique aquatic species. Furthermore, this abundance of food attracts numerous birds, perfect for family birdwatching.

The must-see things to do there:

• A visit to the Bird Observation Centre: The site is located on the migratory route of birds. The centre catalogues the species and allows you to learn more about them, thanks to the Marsh Observatory, an open-air museum.
• A hike in the Nature Reserve.
• The Painted Forest of Oma : This forest is decorated with colorful works of art, giving it a somewhat magical character!
• The Santimamiñe Cave and its interpretation center: On the side of the Erenozar mountain, real scenes of history are told to you by rock paintings, in a one-hour guided tour.
• The Txatxarramendi peninsula and the Urdaibai viewpoint: In the heart of the estuary, this natural area allows for a lovely forest walk, with an unusual view of the estuary.
• The beaches of Laida, Kanala and San Antonio, for relaxing with the family in an idyllic setting.

No. 4: Butrón Castle

Butrón Castle is located in the village of Gatika. Perched on a hill and surrounded by an ancient forest, this " fairytale castle " is truly mysterious. In the heart of a medieval forest estate, the old fortress was rebuilt in a 19th ^- century neo-Gothic style. Its romantic character would make any princess dream…

What you'll like:

• Its turbulent and bloody history.
• A stroll through its gardens to admire its unusual architecture.
• The exhibition on life in medieval times.
• Its exotic and flowery park.

N°5: The Urkiola Natural Park

Urkiola Natural Park is a national reserve in southern Biscay. It is a Natura 2000 protected area. In this protected site, botany enthusiasts will appreciate the fascinating local flora. You will also see birds of prey.

What you can do there:

• Hiking trails. There are also caves to visit: the Mari Cave and the Baltzola Cave.
• It's an exceptional climbing site.
• Its interpretation centre allows you to spot the fauna, including birds of prey, and the flora, especially pollarded beech trees, typical of the region.

No. 6: The Biscay Bridge

The Vizcaya Bridge is a transporter bridge, built in the 19^th century. It connects the towns of Portugalete and Getxo and spans the Nerviron River. It allows the movement of people and goods, thanks to a system of gondolas suspended from a rolling carriage.

Why visit it?

• It is the largest transporter bridge in the world.
• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• It is a symbol of the industrial revolution.
• From the bridge, you will have a lovely view of the Port of Bilbao and the Ria river.

Our selection is obviously not exhaustive and you will discover many other worthwhile visits on site!

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