Travel bucket list idea:
Getaria, Basque Country, Spain
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If San Sebastian gets too intense, escape to this lovely village, just 18km west along the coast. Getaria is a real fishing port with a proud heritage. As well as an attractive medieval town centre, it has charming seafood restaurants and broad, clean beaches – and it’s still largely undiscovered by foreigners.
Getaria also has a burgeoning wine scene, as the light, sparkling txakoli wine is produced around here. Txakoli, a very dry, slightly sparkling white that goes perfectly with pintxos, is one of the new stars of Spain’s wine scene. Once just a drink that farmers made for themselves, it’s now ubiquitous in Basque bars and restaurants.
The original txakoli comes from the delightful hill country outside the picturesque village of Getaria, and it’s a great excuse to lose yourself in the area’s countryside and sample a glass or two.
The world-famous Spanish fashion designer was born and grew up in Getaria. There’s an interesting museum dedicated to his life and haute couture in the village.
The village of Getaria is a 30-minute drive from San Sebastian, and an hour’s drive from Bilbao – once there, it’s pretty easy to navigate on foot.
As for exploring the wineries outside it, there are a number of tour operators in San Sebastian that operate day-long wine tours, but if you know a little Spanish you can manage just as well on your own. Note though that here, as in Rioja, you will need to contact the vineyards in advance to organise tours or tastings.
It’s a pleasant day or half-day out from Bilbao or San Sebastian, but if you are sufficiently charmed to stay longer, stay at the charismatic Hotel Itureggi.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Bilbao
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Rating 4.76 / 5 [47 ratings]
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Basque Country, Spain
A grand but charming beach resort in northern Spain famous for its glut of Michelin-recognised restaurants and superb pintxos. Thie foodie destination is also a short hop from the world-class wines of La Rioja.
Basque Country, Spain
Fascinating ancient traditions, world-famous gourmet treats, Spain’s finest wine region and a gorgeous golden coastline.
