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

Wondering which are the most typical villages to visit in the Spanish Basque Country? Fancy a stroll along the Biscay or Gipuzkoa coast? Come on, let's cross the border and take you on a trip to meet the Basques of the south … We're revealing our Top 10 coastal villages of the Spanish Basque Country.

No. 1: Pasai Donibane

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

No. 2: Getaria

Getaria is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in the Spanish Basque Country. Occupying a small peninsula, it gives the impression of being on an island in the middle of the ocean. At the tip of this peninsula, you can cross Aldamar Park to reach the Getaria Lighthouse. Its fishing port is very typical. Listen to the story of a local boy, one of the first sailors to circumnavigate the globe. Fashion also took root in Getaria, where the famous Balenciaga brand was born. A museum is dedicated to it.

No. 3: Zumaia

Zumaia is a small village perched in the hills. You'll find two beaches there. Santiago Beach is a small beach nestled at the river mouth. A promenade has been built along it, offering a beautiful panorama of the ocean and the Urola estuary. Itzurun Beach is famous for its flysch, stunning geological formations. Some scenes from the series "Game of Thrones" were filmed on this beach.

No. 4: Mutriku

Mutriku is a fishing village. Its fish market is renowned. It's a lively place, well worth a visit. There's also a marina where you can stroll. The village is very old and still boasts medieval buildings. Mutriku has a small, sheltered beach, protected from the wind and currents. It's intimate and family-friendly. If you enjoy hiking, the surrounding area is a haven of unspoiled nature, with beautiful forests.

No. 5: Ondarroa

Ondarroa is located on the border between Biscay and Giupuscoa. It's an important fishing port at the mouth of the Artibai River. The village boasts a rich heritage, including the Church of Santa Maria, the old bridge, and the former town hall. Enjoy exploring its medieval streets on foot. Just outside the village, you can relax on its two small beaches: Arrigorri and Saturranan.

No. 6: Lekeitio

Lekeito boasts an exceptional setting, nestled between the sea and the mountains. During your visit to the village, you can admire the Basilica of the Assumption of Santa Maria and the Santa Catalina Lighthouse. There are beautiful walks to be enjoyed in the surrounding area. We also recommend a visit to San Nicolas Island.

No. 7: Ea

Ea is a tiny village overlooking a cove. The surrounding coastline is quite steep. So even though the beach at the far end of the village is narrow and long, it's very pleasant for families. Nearby, you'll find other small coves, but access to them is more difficult for children. The village itself is very charming, with old buildings and an ancient bridge.

No. 8: Elantxobe

Elantxobe is a village perched on the hills. Its surroundings are natural and wooded. It is typical of the Spanish Basque Country, with its colorful houses and steep, winding streets. At its foot, the fishing port offers a panoramic view of the village, encircled by mountains. A must-see is its bus stop! Because the streets are too narrow for larger vehicles, this bus stop has taken the form of a roundabout.

No. 9: Bermeo

Bermeo is an important fishing site in the Busturialdea region. It sits on a hill that slopes down to the sea. Numerous monuments are worth discovering, including the sculpture of Nestor Basterretxea, the Fisherman's Museum, and the Church of Santa Eufemia.

No. 10: Mundaka

Mundaka is a village that has become famous for its waves! Many surfers come here for the famous left-hand wave, one of the longest in the world. It's also a fishing village, with pretty houses clustered around the harbor.

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

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