Overview
Best of both worlds - culture and food!
Guggenheim is breathtaking. Getaria is a lovely stop. And Zumaia will surprise.
Today the journey is part of the destination as we traverse the coast from San Sebastian to Bilbao and back. Begin by traveling through some of the most beautiful country views in Spain before arriving to the town of Getaria. It is easy to understand why this lush area is the beginning of wine country. The fishing port of Getaria lies on a gorgeous promontory with its harbor sheltered by the fortified island of San Antonio. The town's port is below the 13th-century Gothic Church of San Salvador and the waterfront of the harbor is lined with enticing seafood restaurants. A stop in one of the most pristine of canneries will deliver some anchovies that will enhance your Caesar salads at home. But to contrast that, if you are interested at all in the world of fashion, is the striking museum honoring one of Getaria's own who became a world-famous designers, Balenciaga. It is these two highlights, along with the fact that this is the only city in Spain allowed to grill outdoors. You will take advantage of that by visiting one of the typical seafood restaurants at the harbor, the scenes of both the fishing community along side the sandy beaches as your entertainment while you dine.
Your guide will take you on a stroll through town after lunch so you can see the Medieval streets of the center and all the color and charm of the fishermen's houses with the beautiful wooden balconies. The location of this fishing village, perched on the hills overlooking the seas, will deliver some great photos and lasting memories. Not only was Balenciaga from Getaria, another local became famous as the first to sail around the world. Juan Sebastian Elcano, who lived from 1487 to 1526, is well known for his circumnavigation around the globe and took over the role Magellan played in the navy after his death. You will have the option to visit the Balenciaga museum on your way out of town.
It took a long time for Bilbao to get on the radar and it finally happened when the magnificent Guggenheim Museum was completed in 1997. Designed by Frank Gehry, this titanium and glass building sits along the river in the middle of the city and is sculpture itself. The site is perfect for this building, or perhaps it is the other way around, as Gehry made sure that every angle of this project would architecturally enhance the city. The artwork inside is fun but the backdrop is even better, so plan on visiting the interior structure to learn more about Gehry's project rather than seeing the exhibits. The interior visit is self-guiding which allows you to roam on your own and take your time.
On the return we will stop to enjoy a short walk to see the views of the coastal cliffs in Zumaia, where the green mountains magically meet the Atlantic Ocean. Your guide will introduce you to a place that has become a geological treasure. The area has revealed all sorts of secrets discovered by geology experts from around the world. It is breathtaking as well as surprising, capping off a perfect day in the north of Spain.
- Admission to the Guggenheim Museum is not included but does include an audio tour.
- Please let your guide know if you wish to visit the Balenciaga Museum which will require an additional admission.
- Food, beverages, and gratuities are not included in this tour.
- Please wear comfortable shoes as a portion of each stop will include some walking.
- The order of the itinerary may change.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:30 AM, duration: 8 hours
