Basque Country West Coast

The Basque Country West Coast road trip is a great way to explore the beauty of the Basque Country. Starting in Bilbao, the route winds its way along the coast, offering stunning views of the sea and the nearby towns. Along the 98km route, you'll pass through Bermeo, Guernica, and Lekeitio, each of which has its own unique attractions and experiences. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months when you can take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful beaches along the way. The roads are generally in good condition, though some parts of the route can be curvy and narrow. Despite this, the route is suitable for any driver and can be managed with a moderate budget. Taking the time to explore this route will provide you with an unforgettable experience and lasting memories.

Bilbao is the perfect starting point for the "Basque Country West Coast" road trip. Located in the north of Spain, it is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic sights in the country. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, is a must-see, as it is a modern architectural masterpiece. The old town of Casco Viejo is also a great place to explore, with its winding streets full of history, culture, and delicious cuisine. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Bilbao Airport (BIO), which offers a variety of car rental options. From here, you can easily begin your journey and explore the Basque Country. You can drive to San Sebastián and visit its stunning beaches, or explore the gorgeous landscapes of the Rioja wine region. Further inland is the city of Pamplona, home of the famous Running of the Bulls, or you can explore the breathtaking Pyrenees Mountains. No matter what route you choose, Bilbao is the ideal starting point for your Basque Country West Coast road trip. With its iconic sights, delicious food, and amazing landscapes, you will be sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Bilbao to Bermeo? This 30 km drive, which takes less than an hour, is one of the most scenic routes in Spain. Along the way, you will be able to admire the winding roads, narrow sections, and stunning landscapes. As you drive, make sure to keep an eye out for the beautiful landmarks, such as the Basílica de Begoña and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Begoña in Bilbao, and the Church of Santa María in Bermeo. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Bermeo to Guernica, only 13 km away, and discover the best of Basque Country. The journey will take less than one hour and you will be mesmerized by the scenic roads. As you drive, keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. Take your time and enjoy the views of the lush green hills and the beautiful coastline. When you reach Bermeo, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Church of San Juan, which dates back to the 16th century and is still standing strong. In Guernica, you can visit the Peace Museum, which is dedicated to the bombing of the town during the Spanish Civil War. You can also visit the old Town Hall, which is a beautiful and historic building. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing road trip!

Embark on a thrilling road trip from Guernica to Lekeitio, a journey of 37km that will take you less than two hours. Enjoy the stunning views of the Basque Country as you drive along the winding road, taking in the narrow sections and the green countryside. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the beautiful scenery along the way! Make sure to stop at Guernica's Peace Museum and the Church of Santa Maria, as well as the nearby Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. When you arrive in Lekeitio, visit the Church of San Andres and the impressive San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a hermitage on an islet connected by a bridge. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

Take a road trip from Lekeitio to Mutriku along the stunning Basque Coast and experience the beauty of the Basque Country. The 17 km drive takes less than an hour and you can enjoy the narrow, winding roads with stunning views of the sea. Make sure to keep an eye out for the picturesque fishing villages and beaches along the way. In Lekeitio, visit the Church of San Andres, a 16th century Gothic-style church that overlooks the bay. Enjoy the views from the Santa Catalina Lighthouse, and take a stroll along the waterfront promenade. When you arrive in Mutriku, visit the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe islet, a small island connected to the mainland by a stone bridge. Don't miss the Mutriku Castle, a 12th century castle with magnificent views of the sea. For more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.

At the westernmost point of the Basque Country lies Mutriku, a picturesque town full of history and culture. It's the perfect ending point for the road trip along the Basque Country West Coast. The town is best known for its beach and its spectacular old town, where you can see the ruins of the old castle, the town hall, and the old church. You can also find the old port and a number of traditional Basque restaurants. For those looking to explore the surrounding nature, Mutriku is an excellent base. From here, you can visit many of the nearby nature reserves and explore the many beaches and coves of the coast. The town is also a great place to try some of the traditional Basque cuisine. Many restaurants serve the traditional local dishes, such as the famous Txangurro. The closest international airport to Mutriku is located in Bilbao (BIO), which is just an hour's drive away. From there, you can continue your road trip along the Basque Country West Coast, or explore the rest of the Basque Country. No matter what you choose to do, Mutriku is the perfect ending point for your Basque Country West Coast road trip. With its picturesque old town, stunning beaches and traditional cuisine, it's sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Before you set off

Embark on the enchanting Basque Country West Coast Road Trip for a journey through the vibrant culture and breathtaking coastal vistas of northern Spain. Starting from the innovative city of Bilbao, the route unfolds over approximately 98 kilometers, guiding travelers through historic towns and stunning landscapes along the Bay of Biscay.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Bilbao: Kick off your Road Trip in this dynamic city where tradition meets modernity. The world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is a must-see for its groundbreaking architecture and contemporary art collections.
• Bermeo: Discover this charming fishing village that offers a glimpse into the Basque maritime heritage. Don't miss the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an islet connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge, which has gained fame as a filming location for `Game of Thrones.`
• Guernica: A town steeped in history, Guernica is known for the tragic bombing in 1937, immortalized by Pablo Picasso's famous painting. The Peace Museum and the Assembly House with its symbolic Tree of Gernika are essential stops for history buffs.
• Lekeitio: Explore this picturesque coastal town boasting stunning beaches such as Isuntza and Karraspio. The captivating old quarter and the Gothic Church of Santa María are testaments to the town's rich history.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time for this Road Trip is during the summer months when the warm weather complements the allure of the region's beaches and outdoor activities. Additionally, numerous festivals and cultural events take place during this period, offering a deeper connection with local traditions.

Potential Risks:

While the majority of the route features well-maintained Roads, some stretches can be challenging with their curvy and narrow characteristics. Drivers should remain attentive and drive cautiously, especially in areas with limited visibility.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Basque Country is recognized for its unique language, Euskara, one of the oldest languages in Europe and unrelated to any other known language.
• The region is a gastronomic paradise, famed for its pintxos (small tapas-like dishes) and Michelin-starred restaurants, providing ample opportunities for culinary exploration.
• The Basque coast is dotted with `flysch` rock formations, seen in the Zumaia area, revealing geological history through strikingly layered rock strata.

A good choice for:

The Basque Country West Coast Road Trip is a multifaceted adventure that weaves together the region's cultural richness with the natural majesty of its coastline. It's an unforgettable experience that promises to enchant Roadtrippers with memories that will last a lifetime.