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Highlights
Spend 8 days walking in northern Spain’s Basque Country on this unique self-guided tour
Experience the magic of the Basque coast, discovering the hidden gems of this unique region as you walk from San Sebastian to Lekeitio.
Uncover the heart and soul of small fishing villages along the coast, delighting in authentic cuisine and local wines.
Stand in awe of the karst rock formations and towering flysch cliffs on a visit to a local geopark.
Make your way inland to discover the serene Basque countryside, carpeted in rolling hills, grazing meadows, and dense forest.
Northern Spain is home to the unique area known as Basque Country, where culture and tradition have been frozen in time, and its inhabitants possess a fascinating relationship to the sea. The 8-day self-guided Basque Coast Walking Tour will introduce you to the intricacies of Basque culture and immerse you in the natural beauty that unfolds along the dramatic Basque coast.
The autonomous community of Spain is part of the cross-border cultural region that has its own language, cultural customs, and thriving arts. “Basque” refers to the people who live in both Spain and France and share unique cultural qualities.
Setting out from the romantic city of San Sebastian, you’ll enjoy eight mesmerizing days of walking along the beautiful coast, visiting sleepy fishing towns brimming with charm and soul, where opportunities to soak up the magnetic culture abound.
Gastronomic experiences will delight you as you enjoy mouthwatering Basque cuisine, known for its spectacular fresh fish and meats, grilled to perfection over smouldering hot coals. Tapas are also a fixture of Basque cuisine and make for an excellent reason to stop in at several of the cafes and restaurants you’ll encounter on your walks as you taste your way through the coast!
As the path unfolds along the coast, extraordinary karst rock formations jut up from the landscape as you make your way past the flysch cliffs of the coastal geopark. The highlights continue with surreal views over the Hondarribia Bay from the towering Jaizkibel Peak and scenic walks through pine and eucalyptus forests as you make your way to Lekeitio.
Enjoy authentic overnight stays in San Sebastian, Orio, Zumaia and Lekeitio.
Those looking for a unique walking experience in Spain need look no further... Basque Country is calling!
Northern Spain is home to the unique area known as Basque Country, where culture and tradition have been frozen in time, and its inhabitants possess a fascinating relationship to the sea. The 8-day self-guided Basque Coast Walking Tour will introduce you to the intricacies of Basque culture and immerse you in the natural beauty that unfolds along the dramatic Basque coast.
The autonomous community of Spain is part of the cross-border cultural region that has its own language, cultural customs, and thriving arts. “Basque” refers to the people who live in both Spain and France and share unique cultural qualities.
Setting out from the romantic city of San Sebastian, you’ll enjoy eight mesmerizing days of walking along the beautiful coast, visiting sleepy fishing towns brimming with charm and soul, where opportunities to soak up the magnetic culture abound.
Gastronomic experiences will delight you as you enjoy mouthwatering Basque cuisine, known for its spectacular fresh fish and meats, grilled to perfection over smouldering hot coals. Tapas are also a fixture of Basque cuisine and make for an excellent reason to stop in at several of the cafes and restaurants you’ll encounter on your walks as you taste your way through the coast!
As the path unfolds along the coast, extraordinary karst rock formations jut up from the landscape as you make your way past the flysch cliffs of the coastal geopark. The highlights continue with surreal views over the Hondarribia Bay from the towering Jaizkibel Peak and scenic walks through pine and eucalyptus forests as you make your way to Lekeitio.
Enjoy authentic overnight stays in San Sebastian, Orio, Zumaia and Lekeitio.
Those looking for a unique walking experience in Spain need look no further... Basque Country is calling!
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Basque Coast Walking Tour
Day 1 Arrive
Your walking tour of the beautiful Basque coast begins in the refined city of San Sebastian. The city is known for its excellent gastronomy, lively summer beach, and unique display of fascinating culture!
If your arrival time permits, check out the Old Port neighbourhood or the 19th-century shopping district. A rejuvenating dip at the beach is the perfect way to cool down following an afternoon spent on foot, acquainting yourself with this unique city. Enjoy a good night’s rest in preparation for your first day of walking tomorrow!
Overnight Location: Hotel in San Sebastian
Distance: Flexible
Meals: None
Day 2 Jaizkibel Peak and the Port of Pasaia
Make your way out of the city trekking directly from the hotel. Or skip the urban section and get dropped off at Ermita Guadalupe just above Hondarribia (Fuenterrabía in Spanish). Hiking up toward Jazkibel Peak, the Bay of Biscay spreads out below you and San Sebastian shrinks off into the distance. A 1900 military fort, one of at least five built here, requires no explanation from its perch on the border with France. Pause at the Jaizkibel cantina – last chance for coffee or beer – then veer down off the ridge through open meadows and heaths to the fjord-like port of Pasaia. Jump on the ferry and, once across, return to the city by bus or walk another 9 km back to your hotel. The final section on foot explores a surprisingly rugged coastline, ending abruptly above Zurriola beach and the Urumea estuary, and ends with a short stretch past the beach and Kursaal modern art centre to the harbour, the city’s oldest sector.
Overnight Location: Hotel in San Sebastian
Distance: Option 1: 7.5 hours, 21km, 735m of ascent, 925m of descent
Option 2: 4.5 hours, 12km, 425m of ascent, 620m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Walk the Camino del Norte or the GR-121 Coastal Path
This morning, setting out from San Sebastian, you’ll make your way to Monte Ezequiel where you’ll have two route options for today’s walk.
Option 1:
Walk the Camino del Norte, an ancient pilgrim’s path.
Option 2:
Walk the GR-121 coastal path, an undulating road that boasts impressive coastal views.
Both routes will lead you to the small fishing village of Orio, where the sea, the mountains and the river all meet, painting a beautiful backdrop for your evening here. Be sure to visit Orio’s old quarter, the perfect place to get lost in a charming labyrinth of cobbled streets!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Orio
Distance: Option 1: 5 hours, 12.5km, 425 of ascent
Option 2: 6-7 hours, 16km, 865m of ascent, 865m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 The Bay of Biscay, Zarautz, and Zumaia
Today’s route has you following the scenic GR-121 coastal trail which first takes you over a ridge, and then on a beautiful stretch of path where you’ll enjoy striking views of the inland Basque Country and the Bay of Biscay.
Further on, you’ll encounter the only “real” city visited during this tour, with a stop at the modern town of Zarautz, known for its lively summer vibes and excellent surf. Enjoy the many seafront cafes and restaurants here, getting your city fix before continuing to the next (much smaller) town of Zumaia.
Enjoy your stay in Zumaia this evening, having dinner at one of its many outstanding seafood restaurants and perhaps catching a sunset at the beach.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Zumaia
Distance: 6 hours, 16.9km, 575m of ascent, 545m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Visit the Flysch Geopark and Walk Spectacular Coastline
Today’s route unfolds along the spectacular coast, introducing you to the area’s flysch cliffs and the extraordinary karst stone rock formations that line this stretch of coast. The geopark contains remarkable examples of tectonic deformation structures and invites you to observe over 60 million years of geological history!
The beginning and end of today’s route unfold on the Camino del Norte. The route ends at the train station network in Deba, where you can catch an hourly train back to your accommodations in Zumaia.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Zumaia
Distance: 6 hours, 12.5km, 745m of ascent, 745m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Walk Pine and Eucalyptus Forests from Ondarroa to Lekeitio
This morning a private transfer will take you to Ondarroa where you’ll enjoy a spectacular walk through pine and eucalyptus forests as you trace the coast.
Then, following the river mouth of the Lea, you’ll reach the picturesque town of Lekeitio. Lekeitio is perhaps the best example of a typical Basque port and seaside resort that you’ll encounter on the tour. Here the economy is based mostly on fishing and tourism, but also some small industries.
A visit to the gothic cathedral is a must, as well as a stroll in the cities well-preserved historic center!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lekeitio
Distance: 5 hours, 13km, 625m of ascent, 625m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Explore Beautiful Lekeitio
Today is all about immersing yourself in Basque culture as you explore beautiful Lekeitio!
Whether your idea of the perfect final day of the tour is a relaxing beach day or exploring the city’s historic sites on foot, Lekeitio has something for everyone. Some ideas for today’s adventures are visiting the Txatxo port to see the cities fishing industry at work, a trip to San Nicolás (accessible by foot), or the spectacular Isuntza bridge.
For those interested in hiking today, there are also a few options available with flexible distances.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lekeitio
Distance: 5 hours, 13.2km, 585m of ascent, 675m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Departure
This morning your walking tour of the Basque coast comes to an end after breakfast. Check out of your accommodations and say good-bye to Lekeitio, as you head to the airport to depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Departure on April 1st – 29th, 2024:
- Solo traveller: EUR1194
- Single room (group of 2+): EUR1063
- Sharing a double/twin room: EUR778
- Sharing a triple room: EUR734
Departure on April 30th – May 27th, 2024:
- Solo traveller: EUR1224
- Single room (group of 2+): EUR1093
- Sharing a double/twin room: EUR866
- Sharing a triple room: EUR803
Departure on May 28th – June 26th, 2024:
- Solo traveller: EUR1266
- Single room (group of 2+): EUR1135
- Sharing a double/twin room: EUR888
- Sharing a triple room: EUR818
Departure on June 27th – August 29th, 2024:
- Solo traveller: EUR1393
- Single room (group of 2+): EUR1261
- Sharing a double/twin room: EUR1014
- Sharing a triple room: EUR918
Departure on August 30st – September 27th, 2024:
- Solo traveller: EUR1318
- Single room (group of 2+): EUR1186
- Sharing a double/twin room: EUR971
- Sharing a triple room: EUR879
Departure on September 28st – October 27th, 2024:
- Solo traveller: EUR1224
- Single room (group of 2+): EUR1093
- Sharing a double/twin room: EUR866
- Sharing a triple room: EUR803
Accommodation on the Basque Coast Walking Tour
This tour is based in 2-star and 3-star hotels that are excellently located and reflect local Basque charm. The hotels offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, and basic amenities.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
What’s Included in the Basque Coast Walking Tour?
Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour. Accommodations before or after the tour are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
Private transfers are included according to the itinerary on Days 2 and 6. Luggage transport from accommodations to accommodations is included on Days 3,4 and 6. Airport transfers are not included on this tour but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
Also Included
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- 24-hour phone assistance
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Airport transfers
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas is required
- Public transport transfers
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Fees not mentioned as included
Optional Extras
- Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
- Single occupancy rooms
- Optional transfer from Grado bus station to Sama
- Airport transfers
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
- How hard is the Basque Coast Walking Tour?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
- Are meals included on the Basque Coast Walking Tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to San Sebastian to start this tour?
- Where does the Basque Coast Walking Tour end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?
- When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?
We rate this tour as a 3/5. The tour is comprised of moderate walks interspersed with more challenging excursions that last on average 4-6 hours, excluding breaks. Roads can sometimes be stony and walkers will at times traverse hilly or mountainous routes, but they are always well-maintained.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
7 breakfasts are included on this tour.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
Arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO). From the airport you can take a bus to San Sebastian, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can book a private transfer in advance as a supplement or arrange your own private transfer to the airport.
The tour ends in Lekeitio. From Lekeitio you can take a direct bus to Bilbao Airport (BIO).
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
The best time to travel to the Basque Country for this tour is either June or September to enjoy nice weather while avoiding the heavy midsummer crowds.
Customer Ratings
Explore the hidden corners of Europe by bike or on foot with S-Cape. Their self-guided trips have been hand-crafted by local experts to highlight every detail of your destination. S-Cape designs tours that allow you to explore without restrictive timetables and immerse yourself in the diverse culture and natural beauty of Europe at your own pace.
