Enjoy Gipuzkoa and its surroundings!

UROLA KOSTA

Urola Kosta is a region that seduces its visitors with its unique combination of coastal charm, history, and nature. Enjoying the sea and the sun is possible with long beaches such as the one in Zarautz and the flysch route in Zumaia, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Just 20 minutes from Donostia, in ZARAUTZ you will find the best waves on the Basque coast. It is a paradise for surfers of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, Zarautz Beach offers excellent conditions for this exciting sport.

It is also the perfect place to taste the Getariako Txakolina denomination of origin Txakoli. This fresh fruit white wine is typically from the region and is best enjoyed in the company of pintxos or local seafood. Visit the Tourist Office website to learn more about the Txakoli wineries in Zarautz. To end the day, Zarautz is the perfect town to watch an amazing sunset with Getaria in the background and its famous mouse shape.

In the inner part of the region, we find AZKOITIA, a charming little village that keeps highly valuable historical buildings such as the Idiakez Tower, the church of Santa María la Real or the Insausti Palace. You can enjoy the best views of the village from the Hermitage of San Martín de Iraurgi thanks to its location on top of a hill.

Lunch recommendations:

• Grilled fish
• Marmitako
• Txakoli from Getaria

DEBABARRENA

Debabarrena is the region where the blue of the sea merges with the distinctive green of the mountains of the Basque Country. Here, we find some of the most charming villages on the Basque coast, such as Mutriku and Deba. It is the perfect place to sample the coastal gastronomy of the Basque Country. 

Visit the fishing port of MUTRIKU, enjoy the sun on Saturrarán beach, and swim in the natural pools. What's more, in Mutriku you can stroll around the Geopark, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. And don't miss the chance to sign up for a boat trip to see cetaceans and the entire Basque coast from the sea. Visit the Geoparke website to find out more.

¿Qué pedir para comer?

• Seasonal fish
• Kokotxas (fish cheeks)
• Txangurro (spider crab)

DEBAGOIENA

Debagoiena is the region where tradition, nature, and gastronomy are mixed. It stands out for its impressive nature, with the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park and the Arrikrutz cave in Oñati. You can explore the impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and unique geological formations on guided tours. The region also has a valuable historical heritage, including the Sancti Spiritus University in Oñati and the medieval towns of Arrasate-Mondragón and Aretxabaleta.

The Urkulu Reservoir in ARETXABALETA is the perfect place to connect with nature. You can enjoy the tranquility and calm just 25 25-minute walk from the village. In the village itself, take the opportunity to walk around the center and see the Andra Mari church.

ARRASATE is known for its rich industrial history and cultural life. It is the headquarters of Mondragon Corporation, a world reference in cooperativism. In addition, you can walk through its old town and enjoy the varied gastronomic offers reflecting the essence of the Basque Country. In Arrasate you will taste the best variety of pintxos in the bars and restaurants of the urban area.

If you visit Debagoiena you must visit OÑATI, a town full of history and culture. Here you will find the oldest university in the Basque Country: the Sancti Spiritus University, founded in 1542. Its Renaissance architecture and historic library make it an important cultural and academic reference point. Just a few minutes from Oñati is the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, an important pilgrimage center known for its impressive contemporary architecture and its natural setting in the Aizkorri mountain. Here, you can enjoy a unique natural setting.

Lunch recommendations:

• Veal T-bone steak
• Farmhouse tomato
• Rellenos, tostones and bolados (pastries)

GOIERRI

The Goierri region is located in the heart of Gipuzkoa. Surrounded by the characteristic green of the Basque Country are villages such as Beasain, Lazkao, and Ordizia, towns with an important industrial history and an active social life. Goierri stands out for its famous Idiazabal cheese, which is produced by hand in the mountains of this region. So what better place to try it than in Goierri?

Come to BEASAIN to taste its characteristic black pudding, a traditional Basque product known for its preparation based on pig's blood, lard, leek, onion, and spices, in proportions that vary according to the criteria of each producer. But there is one thing that all the ingredients have in common: quality. A genuine local treat that you can't miss when visiting Goierri. You can also take the opportunity to visit the Igartza Monumental Complex, a historical complex that offers a fascinating insight into life in the region over the centuries.

At the foot of the Sierra de Aralar mountain range is LAZKAO, just 30 minutes by car from Donostia-San Sebastian. Lazkao has buildings of great interest such as the Parish Church of San Miguel, the Palace of the Duke of Infantado, and the Lazcano family. The village is the starting point for numerous itineraries and from where you can enjoy incredible views of the Aralar and Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Parks and various villages in the Goierri region.

ORDIZIA, meanwhile, is famous for its weekly market, where you can find fresh local produce, including the renowned Idiazabal cheese. This market is an unmissable experience for foodies. 

Lunch recommendations:

• "Morcilla" (blood sausage) from Beasain
• Idiazabal cheese
• Cider

TOLOSALDEA

Tolosaldea is a region that combines history, culture, and a rich gastronomic tradition. Located near Donostia, it is the perfect place to explore picturesque Basque villages, each with its own charm and unique characteristics. 

One of these villages is ALEGIA, a picturesque village located in the heart of Tolosaldea. This small village is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy nature. In Alegia, you can stroll through its streets and enjoy the local hospitality.

Lunch recommendations:

• Tolosa beans
• Chilli peppers from Ibarra
• Tiles and cigarettes

IPARRALDE

Iparralde is the Basque name given to the northern part of the Basque Country, the part on the French side. This region is a jewel to be discovered, with a rich Basque culture, stunning natural landscapes, and charming villages. To visit Iparralde is to immerse yourself in the authenticity of the Basque-French culture, enjoy the delicious local gastronomy, and explore its nooks and crannies.

Visit URRUGNE and take the opportunity to walk along the corniche and discover impressive cliffs, hidden coves, and panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea on a route alongside the sea. Take the Larrun Train and climb to the top of Mount Larrun to discover spectacular views of the region. Stroll through the village of Urrugne to learn about the culture of The North Basque Country and savor its gastronomy, a range of traditional Basque dishes including fresh seafood and local produce.

Lunch recommendations:

• Ezpeleta peppers
• Talo de chistorra (chistorra sausage thallus)
• Gateau Basque