The coast of Bizkaia is one of the great treasures for those visiting or living in Bilbao. You don’t have to go halfway across the world to come across breathtaking cliffs, ports with a salty aroma and beaches where the Bay of Biscay pounds forcefully. The Coast of Bizkaia is where landscapes that seem to be hand-painted unfold, and the best thing is that many of these corners are less than an hour away from the city. If you have a day off and are in the mood for feeling the sea breeze, the following places are not to be missed in order to understand why we are so proud of our region.
Getxo and Portugalete: elegance and iron on the river estuary
Starting the route along the coast of Bizkaia from Getxo is a safe bet. It is a municipality that combines like none other the elegance of the large mansions on Paseo de las Arenas with the authentic flavour of the Old Port in Algorta. Strolling along its cobbled streets and finishing with a pintxo (tapa) in front of the white fishermen’s houses is possibly one of the best plans for a Sunday. Getting there is as easy as hopping on the Metro Line 1; in twenty minutes you can go from the hustle and bustle of the city centre to the serenity of Ereaga Beach or the impressive cliffs in the surrounding area.
On the other side, Portugalete is waiting after crossing the Bizkaia Bridge. This is not just any bridge, this “iron giant” is a World Heritage Site and a masterpiece that has connected the two river banks since1893. Crossing it in its gondola or walking across the upper footbridge at a height of 61 metres offers views of the river estuary that cannot be forgotten. This connection with the history of our docks is the what you feel when you visit the AC Museum, where the industrial past and football go hand in hand. Afterwards, the best thing to do is to wander around the historic quarter of Portugalete, walk up to the Gothic church of Santa María and feel the weight of a town that has been the region’s commercial driving force for centuries.
Sopela and Barrika: a paradise for surfing and geology on the Coast of Bizkaia
For those looking for more action or nature, Sopela is the mecca. Arrietara and Meñakoz beaches are famous worldwide for the quality of their waves, attracting surfers all year round. But it’s not all about boards and wetsuits; walking along its cliff paths enables you to discover the local flora and enjoy sunsets that are undoubtedly among the best in the Bay of Biscay. It is the perfect place to take a deep breath and feel the force of the sea under your feet.
Nearby, Barrika offers a sight that seems to come from another planet: the flysch. These ancient rock formations unfold on the shore at low tide, creating textures and shapes that are a magnet for photographers. It is a quieter and more unspoilt corner, ideal for those who prefer silence and observation. If you are thinking of making a 7 day trip around the Basque Country, these two places are a must to understand the geological force of our coast.
Urdaibai and Bermeo: the essence of the sea in its purest form
Entering the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is accessing the green and blue heart of Bizkaia. Villages, such as Mundaka, with its famous left wave, or Gernika, with its historical significance, are just the beginning. Here, the marshes dictate the rhythm and gastronomy rules. In Bermeo, for example, the port is still the centre of the universe. Watching the colourful boats unloading the day’s catch is a lively sight. Don’t leave without trying a delicious marmitako (tuna and potato stew) or bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic and olive oil) in one of the restaurants in the port; you can taste the sea in each mouthful.
Bermeo preserves the atmosphere of an old fishing village, with its old quarter full of slopes and its Fisherman’s Museum, which houses the memory of a trade that has shaped our identity. It is one of the jewels of the most beautiful villages in Bizkaia and is the perfect base for the final stop on any route along the coast.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: a route with spectacular views of the Bay of Biscay
We cannot end this trip without mentioning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. This islet crowned by a 10th century hermitage is probably the most iconic image of the Coast of Bizkaia. More than 200 steps winding up over the sea are a physical challenge, but reaching the top and ringing the bell three times to make a wish is worth every bead of sweat. The views from the top are simply spectacular.
It is a place with a special mystique, where history and legend merge with the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks. As it is so close to Bermeo, it is perfect to combine both visits on the same day. Be prepared with good footwear and water, because the path is challenging, although the feeling of satisfaction on completing it is one that will stay with you forever. The Coast of Bizkaia is the perfect plan to escape from Bilbao, a constant journey between tradition, effort and beauty facing the Bay of Biscay
