Explore the Basque country, on a self-guided bike tour, pedaling along the magnificent coast from San Sebastian to Bilbao whilst savoring the rich cuisine of the region. This tour is the perfect way to experience the countryside, coast, and culture of the Spanish Basque Country. Cycle along beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and charming fishing villages, immersing yourself in the local way of life. The itinerary begins and ends in the two most exciting cities of the region: San Sebastian and Bilbao. San Sebastian, famous for its culinary scene, boasts more Michelin stars per square meter than anywhere else in the world and is the birthplace of the “new Basque cuisine” movement. Sampling the creative pintxos, made with the finest local ingredients, is a highlight for both visitors and locals. The city’s stunning bay, known as the Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea, forms a natural amphitheater surrounded by mountains, making it a world-class destination. This tour can be done in both directions, from Bilbao to San Sebastian and vice-versa. Bilbao, the capital of Bizkaia, is a major cultural and economic hub in northern Spain. Internationally recognized for its architecture, the city is home to the Guggenheim Museum as well as many other remarkable sites and experiences in and around the city. The Basque Coast is a paradise for food lovers, celebrated for its fresh seafood, crisp txakoli wines, and vibrant pintxo culture. Coastal towns serve up the day’s catch in traditional taverns, while modern restaurants push the boundaries of innovative cuisine. From grilled fish in charming fishing ports to gourmet creations in Michelin-starred eateries, every meal is a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage. Sampling the local flavors is an intrinsic part of the Basque coastal experience. The Basque Coast and surrounding regions are renowned for their distinctive wines, particularly the crisp, slightly sparkling white txakoli, produced in small coastal vineyards. These wines are light, refreshing, and perfectly paired with the region’s abundant seafood. Inland, the Rioja Alavesa region offers elegant red wines with rich, complex flavors, reflecting centuries of winemaking tradition. Tasting these local wines provides a true connection to the culture and terroir of the Basque Country. Upon arrival in San Sebastián, the afternoon is yours to relax and explore at leisure. Take a stroll through the charming city centre and soak in the beauty of the spectacular shell-shaped La Concha Beach, just minutes on foot from your hotel. We recommend wandering through the lively streets and sampling the city’s famous ‘pintxos’ in one of the many local bars. ‘Pintxo’ is the Basque adaptation of the Spanish word ‘pincho’, derived from the verb ‘pinchar’, meaning “to pierce.” These small, flavorful bites are a cornerstone of Basque culinary culture, typically enjoyed with a glass of local wine or a crisp, refreshing beer. Sampling pintxos is an essential part of your cycling adventure through the Basque Country, offering a delicious introduction to the region’s vibrant food scene. Setting off from San Sebastián, you’ll begin your ride climbing gently out of the city into the lush Basque countryside. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of verdant landscapes and the sparkling Bay of Biscay. Cycle along the scenic coast, passing the famous surfing town of Zarautz and the charming fishing port of Getaria, before arriving at your final destination for the day, the picturesque town of Zumaia. Tonight, your hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and a soothing spa, perfect for relaxing and easing your muscles after your first day in the saddle. From the coastal town of Zumaia, you’ll pedal inland through rolling Basque countryside, where verdant hills and fragrant meadows create a serene backdrop. Soon, the route returns to the rugged coastline, with the fresh sea breeze carrying the scent of salt and pine. Pause in the picturesque fishing village of Ondarroa, with its colorful boats bobbing in the harbor, before arriving at your final destination for the day: the charming seaside port of Lekeitio, where the gentle sound of waves and the vibrant local atmosphere make for the perfect evening by the sea. Departing from Lekeitio, today’s ride traces the dramatic coastline to the Bay of Guernica and the remarkable Urdaibai Estuary and Biosphere Reserve. From there, you’ll follow the river inland to Guernica, the historic capital of Biscay and the town immortalized by Picasso’s masterpiece. After a brief stop to explore its storied streets, you’ll continue along the opposite side of the Mundaka River until you reach the lively town of Mundaka, your home for the night. Today’s ride takes you from Mundaka to the picturesque fishing town of Bermeo, where we suggest a short stop to explore its charming streets. The route then winds along rolling roads, offering a glimpse of the stunning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the dramatic island made famous by _Game of Thrones_. Just before reaching Bakio, we recommend a stop at the Txakoli Museum. Txakoli is a lightly sparkling, crisp white wine with low alcohol content, produced in Northern Spain. (Entrance and wine tasting are included in the tour price.) A few more twists and turns bring you to your delightful boutique hotel in Plentzia, perfectly situated by the fishing port for a relaxing evening by the sea. Your final ride of the week takes you into Bilbao, the largest city in the province. Leaving the coastline behind, you’ll follow a mix of roads and cycling paths that lead straight into the heart of the city along the river. As you approach the Guggenheim Museum, the striking, avant-garde architecture of Frank Gehry will welcome you with its unforgettable presence. Spend the afternoon exploring this iconic masterpiece, then wander through the city’s old quarter for a final farewell pintxo and a glass of the region’s crisp, refreshing txakoli white wine. After breakfast, you will bid farewell to your bike and the stunning Basque countryside. Contact us if you would like to spend a few extra nights in Bilbao or extend your trip to explore the beautiful green city of Vitoria or other charming towns in the Basque Country. Arrival/Departure: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD) or Bilbao (BIO) or San Sebastian (EAS). Direct flights to Madrid are available from a number of destinations in the USA, and direct flights to Bilbao are available from Newark (EWR), as well as from many destinations within Europe. From Madrid, you can travel by [high-speed train](<https://www.renfe.com/es/en>) to Bilbao or San Sebastian. The journey takes approximately 5 hours, and direct connections are available throughout the day. There are also buses that go from Madrid to both cities. Please consult with your Bike Spain Tours travel coordinator if you wish to book extra nights in Madrid before the start of the tour. Some of our favourite hotels are: _City centre_ * [ Ocean Drive Madrid****](<https://www.od-hotels.com/en/ocean-drive-madrid/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=ESP_Branding_2&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21760540689&gbraid=0AAAAADzrSQHEJsfm2kJZyXs8s0QoPpsKS&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsPzHBhDCARIsALlWNG3LPYvwZ8hTBToIq-neiHdE2XttPMpcXPjks4VvtdDcuDgOAuBfpQEaAsv6EALw_wcB>): Elegant, modern option with a rooftop pool. * [Petit Palace Posada del Peine****](<https://www.petitpalaceposadadelpeine.com/es/?origin_source=google&origin_medium=cpc&origin_campaign=18372874999_142242030875&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18372874999&gbraid=0AAAAADwbY9m5PYJvoV5g7FDJh5vQrakGi&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsPzHBhDCARIsALlWNG15Q86C29OaZ27uZE15Ba82vxGg1j5JTyTB2-87nzBcTAQr3-DaLDkaAup0EALw_wcB>): Charming historic option, in operation for over 400 years. _Chamartín train station_ [ Hotel The One Chamartín****](<https://www.hotelchamartintheone.com/en/?_gl=1*7u9vue*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQiAiKzIBhCOARIsAKpKLAN9cDWvauFHYz074dsXRQVm5KDo9TrvuoVuD4SzMRQBpGKOJnR2IXcaAl_FEALw_wcB&gbraid=0AAAAA-f-U0e_2cD3CILHc2kG0iEA-Mvwo>): Comfortable modern property conveniently located inside Chamartin Clara Campoamor train station. Six nights accommodation in boutique hotels with continental breakfast. Personal welcome and bike-fitting in San Sebastian. Luggage transport between each hotel. Personalized itinerary with local suggestions and access to GPS routes. Entrance tickets to the txakoli Museum in Bakio, with wine tasting included.
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