Coast Route: Gernika, Mundaka & Urdaibai, Bermeo, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

To speak of Gernika is to speak of the Basque Fueros, the ancient charters, and everything they mean to this people. Sadly, it also means remembering 26 April 1937, when the town was bombed by Italian and German aircraft, killing many civilians and destroying almost the entire town.

Our visit begins at the Assembly House, with its Assembly Hall, the Stained Glass Room, the Oath Tribune and, of course, the legendary Tree of Gernika. The building was completed in 1833 and was one of the few that survived that fateful day.

We continue with a stroll through the Peoples of Europe Park and then see the life-size tile mosaic of Picasso’s famous painting.

Leaving Gernika we enter a gorgeous landscape: the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a natural haven of great ecological value with an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. The road then takes us to Mundaka, a small seaside village.

There we take a walk by the sea. From this vantage point you can see the mysterious island of Izaro, wrapped in legends, the historic Santa Katalina point with its watchful lighthouse, the imposing Cape Ogoño and the beautiful Oka estuary.

Look to the horizon and you will spot surfers riding the famous “left wave”, which draws surfers from all over the world for its perfect shape.

Following the coastline we reach Bermeo, a town deeply bound to the sea. Its history has always been tied to fishing and the canning industry, the backbone of its economy for generations.

Our walk starts at the Atalaya lookout, with breathtaking views over the Cantabrian Sea. We wander down the steep lanes of the old fishermen’s quarter, a maze of colourful houses, to the harbour, and stroll along the breakwater enjoying the sea breeze and the slow rhythm of coastal life… while working up an appetite.

This idyllic islet belongs to Bermeo and has always been a special, much-loved place for the people of Bizkaia. It is the second most visited site in the province after the Guggenheim, and world famous as Dragonstone in Game of Thrones.

To reach the hermitage you walk down a steep path and climb its 241 steps. At the top we ring the bell three times so our wishes come true. It will be worth every step!

Because of its popularity, access requires a free online ticket from the Provincial Council of Bizkaia — we take care of it for you.