Excursion Culinary hondarribia & san sebastian tour at Bilbao

The most glamorous city in the Basque Country

Few cities have earned such lavish titles as San Sebastian – 'The Beautiful', 'Pearl of the Sea' and 'Incomparable'. A visit to this charming Belle Epoque resort built around a crescent-shaped bay will show you why it has been admired by so many for so long.

Its attractive beaches and the charming architecture has been attracting visitors from all over the world since the middle of the 19^th century. It still maintains all of the splendor from when it was a royal summer destination.

Before you get confused, it is a good idea to explain that Donostia is Basque for San Sebastian. Although the Basque language is ancient, Donostia is less so. Sancho el Mayor (called Sancho el Fuerte - Sancho the Strong) founded the city of San Sebastian around 1180 in what is today the Parte Vieja (historical quarter). The city's unique geographical situation, an isthmus joining the city center with Monte Urgull (Mount Urgull), the Bahía de la Concha (Shell Bay) and the outlet of the Río Urumea (Urumea River), made it ideal as a military stronghold with a port. Towards the end of the 19th century, with the royal court of Madrid taking up summer residence in Donostia at the Palacio de Miramar (Miramar Palace), the city became a popular tourist destination and spa resort.

Drive now to hondarribia an old medieval fishing village on the French border, dating from the Middle Ages. Enjoy a nice lunch together with the chef of the resurant and taste teh selection of products prepare for you. After lunch explore the old medieval town past ancient houses sporting carved eaves and iron balconies on a guided walking tour.

Return to Bilbao

Points of interests

Points of interest: San Sebastian, Monte Urgull, Bahia de la Concha

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