Results for Bilbao

List of architectural points of interest (for me)

How did I spent 1 day in Bilbao? You will find an itinerary to discover the city, what to do, where to eat.

After living in Bilbao for a year and hosting countless guests, I’m confident that this guide will help you make the most of your time in the city. Let's get started!

🇪🇸 2-3 days in Bilbao - top 10 sights

Your trip to the Basque Country is incomplete without a trip to at least one of these beaches... That are not La Concha! Most are easily accessible by public transit, and a few are a short walk away from a Metro station (the Greater Bilbao area has its own Metro system, connecting almost a million people)

Seven-day trek based in refugios. INTRODUCTION The Picos de Europa is a region of limestone peaks reaching over 2500 metres above sea level; the highest being Torre de Cerredo at 2650 metres. The route described here is one that I hiked alone in early summer. The best time to tackle the route is between June and September. There is more likely to be snow on the high passes in early June but they are usually not to difficult to negotiate. The Picos de Europa is not as well known as the Pyrenees or Alps and as such the hiker traffic is less and the tourist infrastructure is less developed. This makes the area feel less spoilt but it can also make it a more challenging area to explore with fewer trails and little to no signposting. Always take a map with you: the Editorial Alpina 1:25,000 maps are the best. I took these and also used the outdooractive app and downloaded the relevant map tiles. This is useful for pinpointing where you are, in what can be confusing terrain. I was lucky to have clear weather for my entire trek but I would imagine that it's pretty difficult to navigate when the cloud is down on the mountains so take a compass too. You can stay in refugios every night on this hike and wild camping is permitted above 1500m; details below. I can't recommend the Picos de Europa as a hiking destination enough. The mountains are magnificent but there are also beautiful extensive woodlands at lower altitudes, as well as meadows full of wildflowers and butterflies. The juxtaposition between the stark limestone peaks and the gentle greenery of the valleys is beguiling. DISCLAIMER: Please note that hiking in the Picos de Europa is not risk free. It is a very challenging area in which to hike. I accept no responsibility for any accidents you may experience while hiking this route. You are responsible for your own safety. Some of the dangers and difficulties are listed a little further down this guide. HOW BUSY? Unlike some of the more well know hikes around Europe this trail is less well trodden and as such the trail can be quite hard to follow at times, and at other times there is no trail! Despite this, refugios, being small, fill up fast (see below). REFUGIOS The hike is made easier if you stay in the staffed refugios where you can recharge your metaphorical batteries. Accommodation at these mountain huts is in communal dormitories and you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. It's best to book ahead as they are often full throughout the summer. Prices are around the €12-17 mark and they also do affordable meals (breakfast, picnic lunch and dinner). There is also a handful of unstaffed, very basic mountain shelters with no services and no beds but these can be a good option in an emergency. Most of the refugios only accept cash so be sure to take plenty with you before you set off as there are no ATMs! All the refugios on the route are listed in the route description below with website links. WILD CAMPING Camping is only permitted at 1500m above sea level or higher. There is not much water anywhere above this altitude so be sure to fill up when you get the chance (at refugios) before camping in a remote spot. POSADA DE VALDEON This beautiful village tucked in the valley between the Macizo Central and Macizo Occidental is a lovely place to wander for a few hours. At the centre of the village there are a number of restaurants and bars and a small square with a water fountain. If you need somewhere to stay before or after the trek you'll find hotels, guest houses and a youth hostel. There is a hotel recommendation and link in the route description. In the centre of the village is a pharmacy should you need any blister plasters! And on the road to the west of the village is the National Park office where you can find information about hiking and anything else to do with the national park. GETTING THERE From the UK there are Ryanair flights to Oviedo (Asturias airport) from London Stansted. A bit further afield you can get flights to Bilbao and Santander from the UK and the rest of Europe. Getting from the airport is a little complicated but there are buses to Posada de Valdeón from Oviedo changing in Cangas de Onis. The journey takes about 4.5hrs. There are also buses from Santander and Bilbao changing in Llanes and Riaño with the journey taking around 15hrs from Bilbao. An easier but more expensive option is to get a taxi. You could also hire a car but of course you will have to leave the car sitting idle in Posada de Valdeón while you do the hike. FLORA & FAUNA This area of northern Spain is fantastic for wildlife. At lower elevations the beech and sessile oak woodland stretches for miles over rolling hills. This is part of the boreal forest that once would have covered much of Europe and is home to roe deer, wild boar, red squirrels, pine martens and brown bears. In the skies you have a good chance of seeing griffon vultures, golden, booted and short-toed eagles, black kites and peregrines. Of the smaller passerine species the Picos are home to red-backed shrikes, black redstarts, spotted flycatchers and black woodpeckers. But it's the wildflowers in the meadows and on the woodland edges that are the real joy and most easily appreciated. Vetches, cinquefoils and orchids create a colourful patchwork of colours with butterflies bringing the whole scene to life. Look out for swallowtails, fritillaries and hairstreaks. NAVIGATION Navigation is difficult as the terrain can be confusing and in many places there is no trail whatsoever. Take a map (1:25K Editiorial Alpina maps are the best), compass and GPS and know how to use them. It's also a good idea to download the map on a relevant map app. I used the outdooractive app but others are available. WEATHER Thunderstorms are common, usually in the afternoon and these can be particularly dangerous high up in the mountains. It's best to hike early and get to a refugio by lunchtime if there are afternoon thunderstorms in the forecast. The weather in this part of Spain is very changeable as it has a maritime climate. Rain and thick fog are possible but equally long periods of warm sunshine are not unusual. The best advice I can offer is to be prepared for anything. Pack suncream and a sunhat but don't forget your waterproofs either. FALLING ROCKS Rock falls are not unusual as chamois and other hikers can dislodge rocks above you. Getting caught in a rockfall is not so common but not impossible. Be aware and if you see rocks heading your way, and cannot find cover, crouch down on the floor and pull your rucksack over your head and back. DRINKING WATER There is very little running water as these mountains are mostly comprised of permeable limestone. You will need to take plenty of water with you each day (I packed three litres every day and usually drank it all). You can fill up at the refugios and there are a few fountains / fuentes although most of the ones I saw marked on the Editorial Alpina map were dry when I found them. THE SUN Sunburn and sunstroke are both real dangers and there is little shade. Keep hydrated and wear a sun hat that covers your neck. TERRAIN In some places you need to scramble up steep rocky sections. You will need to have experience in this kind of terrain and have a head for heights! The terrain is very rocky and uneven at higher altitudes so you will need strong, sturdy footwear. Trekking poles are also invaluable in providing support and helping you across and up awkward sections. There is also a lot of steep ascent and descent on this route so you will need to be reasonably fit. DANGEROUS ANIMALS On many parts of the trail you will encounter cows. In my experience they are very docile and used to trekkers so they shouldn't be of any concern. You may also find flocks of sheep and while these aren't dangerous they are often accompanied by shepherd dogs which have been trained to keep intruders away from the flock. They can be quite intimidating when they start barking at you. If you see sheep ahead it is best to give them a wide berth, even if this means veering away from the trail for a while. If you walk directly towards or through a flock of sheep you risk agitating the shepherd dogs. Bears are not common in the Picos de Europa but there are bears in other parts of the Cantabrian Mountains, notably Somiedo National Park, not far to the west, and there is always the possibility of seeing an itinerant bear wandering through the Picos. Eurasian brown bears are not as big nor aggressive as the grizzly bears of North America so you shouldn't worry too much about an encounter. It's extremely unlikely you will see one so if you do, consider yourself very lucky. Wild boar are common in the woodlands at lower altitudes. They are not as aggressive as some people will tell you and tend to be nocturnal. I did see some in the daytime near Vegabaño. As soon as they saw me they ran away, crashing through the undergrowth. As with any large animal it's best to simply give them plenty of space to move away from you. I hope none of this advice puts you off hiking in the Picos de Europa. Yes, it's a challenging mountain area but the rewards for hiking here are great. Enjoy the hike!

Are you traveling to Spain and staying in San Sebastian or Bilbao? Do you want to make the most of your time and use public transportation to explore the surrounding areas? Then this is the guide for you! I’m going to share my experience of visiting the Basque Country in Winter/Spring 2023 - including the must-see’s, the do’s and don’ts, and the high’s and low’s! If you’re the type of traveler who saves costs on accommodation and transportation, but splurges on wine, cocktails, and small bites, then follow along because we have all that and more in common! I’ll cover 10 destinations including what to expect, how to get there, and my honest recommendations!

While this is still a largely undiscovered part of the world by most foreigners, it's widely known as a culinary mecca for everyone with an interest in food and food culture. Basque cuisine is renowned worldwide for being some of the most visionary and avant-garde in the industry, and food as a whole is an extremely important part of Basque culture. There's so much more to do in the Basque Country than just enjoying the food though! The entire region is truly a gift to the planet in terms of natural beauty, being nestled between mountains and the sea. Basques have been fishers and mountain climbers, sailing the seas and scaling mountains, while also developing some of the strongest industry in Southern Europe. Here's a guide to some of the absolutely crucial visits you *must* make while you're in the area, whether you're based in Bilbao or San Sebastián (referred to as "Donosti" by Basques, a shortened form of its Basque name Donostia), though I prefer Bilbao because I'm biased. 😜 This guide encompasses everything from landmarks to towns and even a few restaurants, perfect for when you're considering whether to check out this beautiful and charming region. I focus on the Spanish Basque Country as it's what I'm most familiar with, but recommendations for the French Basque Country (known as the "Iparralde" or "north country" in Basque) will come soon!

This 8-day 100km loop in Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa will take you through the most spectecular parts of the park, including the popular Cares Gorge, the ..., but also the most remote and wild part of the park deep in the Cornión massif. This guide contains everything you need to know to do this hike. This guide is for wild camping on the most beautiful locations in the park. If you prefer to stay to stay only in refuges, see the refuges guide. What this guide includes: - day-by-day itinerary with the unique route, distances, elevation gain, overnight options, possible shortcuts and the best campsites (or refuges); - custom Google Maps with the daily route and all the important locations (camping locations, water, resupplies, vistas, refuges); - gpx-track of the route; - all the practical information: how to get there, trail conditions, weather, geography and more. Get an impression on Youtube/harmenhoek

This 8-day 100-115km (65-75mi) loop in Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa will take you through the most spectecular parts of the park, including the popular Cares Gorge and the scenic Naranjo de Bulnes peak, but also the most remote and wild part of the park deep in the Cornión massif. This guide contains everything you need to know to do this hike. This is the guide for overnights in refuges. If you prefer to wild camp, see the camping guide. What this guide includes: - day-by-day itinerary with the unique route, distances, elevation gain, overnight options and the best refuges; - custom Google Maps with all the important locations (campsites, grocery stores, view points, trails, refuges); - gpx-track of the route; - all the practical information: how to get there, trail conditions, weather, geography and more. Get an impression on Youtube/harmenhoek.

a month exploring the north coast of spain and a little bit of basque france by van. driving, surfing, and searching for the next tortilla de patatas.

For a city of its size, San Sebastián has a lot going on. Elegant art nouveau buildings, ornate bridges and beautifully manicured parks and plazas create a captivating backdrop to this seaside city. This city's Baasque culture enjoys a fusion of French glamor and Spanish heart; giving it a thriving pulse of new life with charming guesthouses, colourful boutiques and buzzing pintxos bars all part of the great and vibrant mix that is San Sebastián. This itinerary outlines the best way to spend your days exploring San Sebastian with a full range of restaurants and activities to choose from. Everything you need in one place so you can focus on enjoying your trip without the stress. Unlock for access to: Day trip Recommendations Must-See's of San Sebastian Things to do Places to Eat Sweet Treat Stops Coffee Shops to Enjoy Each item in this curated collection includes notes that will help you plan avoid unexpected hiccups and enjoy like a local. These places are my personal favorites from my time living in San Sebastian and have certainly stood the test of time. Check out the guide or use the interactive map to peruse the collection. It’s mobile friendly and easy to use on-the-go. My collection is a living guide. You will receive updates in real-time as I continue to curate this guide, including new places and additional tips without paying more for additional content. Please reach out to me if you have any questions.

🥬🥑🥕🥗🍐 Hello! I have traveled Spain for a month as a vegan/vegetarian and have been amazed by the quality and plethora of dining options available. It is widely known that Barcelona, Spain, is one of the top most vegan/vegetarian friendly cities in the world; but beyond the city, there is an abundance of meat-free cuisine. Here is a guide to all of the best vegan and vegetarian spots to try across Spain. The locations with reviews have been personally visited by myself. Disclaimer: not all of these venues are exclusively vegan or vegetarian, but all have, at least, a healthy amount of meat-less options on their menu.

A two and a half week visit starting in Madrid and followed by a road-trip across northern Spain crossing the Aragon, Navara, Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia regions. This was an adult-only trip that focused on enjoying the best experiences and finest ingredients across the various regions. Hotels on this itinerary are high to very high end. There are some Bonvoy hotels included because loyalty programs work! Seeing the changes between regions was fascinating. The physical landscapes ranged from semi arid with huge sunflower fields dotting the highway, to mountain ranges that were mixed in the distance with clouds, to rolling green hills and banging coast line with surfers, families and friends enjoying the beautiful beaches all along the way. Galicia was the sleeper hit for us. The whole north coast of Spain is quieter than Malaga, Valencia etc. and Galicia is heavy on domestic tourism. Galicia is also a great add on for those visiting Portugal.

Are you looking for a long weekend of coastal vibes, rich culture and amazing gastronomy? This is the perfect guide for those who are looking to escape the 9-5 and your busy lifestyle. Personally spending time between San Sebastián and London ─ I will give you an insight into the best way to experience this beautiful city! This is a destination guide made simple for you. What's included: - San Sebastián overview - General logistics & the best way to get around - Interactive maps for easy navigation - Overview on neighborhoods - City highlights - Personal favorite walking routes - Activities - Cultural tips and tricks Recommendations on: - Where to stay - Where to eat For an even more personalized guide, order a Custom Itinerary or hop on a Consultation Call with me!

Are you dreaming of a perfect getaway tailored fully to your preferance and intrest but are lacking time and expertise to plan it yourself? Then you are in a perfect place, as my Travel Services will help you achieve just that. If you have any questions email me at kristinastojanovic.x@hotmail.com or DM me on Instagram: @___kristinavstheworld_

I've always loved hotels. This is why I ended up studying hospitality at Les Roches International School of Hotel Management in Marbella, Spain and working for Starwood, Kempinski and Mandarin Oriental. I've been a Spain specialist since 2019, which means that I've had the opportunity to stay in and inspect some wonderful properties over the years. Here, I'm sharing a collection of my favorite hotels.

All the places we visited on our 71 day road trip. The route went down from Calais on the west of France for a week including another week in the Pyrenees. The north of Spain and Basque region for around 2 weeks. Down through Portugal including Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve for around 4 weeks. A few spots in the south of Spain from the drive back home which took us 10 days. Finally finishing in Bruges, Belgium. All of my photos from this road trip are on my Instagram which is @takeme.travelling. You are welcome to ask me any questions you wish.

Europe's rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and landscapes invites exploration at every turn. For those seeking affordable adventures, I've curated a list of 30 budget-friendly weekend city trips that promise unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. From the cobbled streets of Prague to the sunny shores of Valencia, these cities offer a mix of history, culture, and culinary delights. So, pack your bags, and let's embark on a journey across the continent!

After living in Outremont periodically, it quickly became my favourite spot in Montreal - I barely felt the need to explore beyond my own area as there was SO much within a few kilometres of my old apartment. Here is a mini-guide to this area and my favourite things in walking distance!