The Basque Country is a region with countless spots to discover, known for its lush green inland landscapes, coastlines, and charming villages. In addition to the major cities like Bilbao, there are many small towns worth visiting if you’re traveling in the Basque Country. Get lost in their old towns, breathe in all the history they hold, and live the local traditions alongside the locals. The most beautiful villages in the Basque Country are waiting for you!
5 Beautiful Villages in the Basque Country You Must Visit
Here are some of the best villages in the Basque Country where you can experience the true Basque life and soak up culture and history. We’ll tell you what to see and do in these locations and recommend all the Silken Hotels where you can stay during your trip. Take note!
Durango (Biscay)
Located in the heart of Euskadi, this is a town with immense historical value surrounded by an unparalleled environment. Its historic center is perfect for strolling and getting lost, with a must-stop at Plaza de Santa Ana, where there is a gate of the old wall that once protected the town, and the Basilica of Santa María de Uribarri. From Durango, you can also visit the Urkiola Natural Park, located just 8 kilometers away, and especially the Anboto, its highest peak. There are several hiking routes and viewpoints where you can enjoy the magnificent Basque landscapes.
For a few days stay here, there’s no better accommodation than the Silken Gran Hotel Durango, a luxury hotel right in the center of town. In this 4-star hotel in Durango, you’ll find a magnificent thermal spa to relax during your free time, as well as a restaurant where you can taste the traditional local food.
Laguardia (Álava)
If you’re a fan of good food and wine, you can’t miss Laguardia on your visit. This is one of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country, with endless fields of vineyards and olive trees, and a medieval past that gives it a lot of charm. The Church of Santa María de los Reyes is a true jewel of Basque art, with a carved stone portico that is still preserved today. Of course, you must visit one of the wineries in Laguardia, a wine paradise and a great destination for wine tourism. We recommend Ysios winery and its unique architecture.
For accommodation, your best option is the Silken Villa de Laguardia, a 4-star hotel in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, surrounded by vineyards, perfect for a relaxing stay with your partner or family. You can enjoy excellent services such as a spa, outdoor pool, buffet breakfast, and a restaurant.
Lekeitio (Biscay)
Moving from the inland to the coast, we find Lekeitio, a town between Bilbao and San Sebastián located at the mouth of the Lea River. One of the most beautiful coastal towns in the Basque Country, this is a great destination for a peaceful holiday by the sea. From its main beach, Isuntza Beach, you can visit the beautiful Isla de San Nicolás when the tide allows. On the island, there is a viewpoint that offers fantastic views of the village.
Enjoy a magical stay on Isuntza Beach itself at the Silken Palacio Uribarren, a hotel in Lekeitio in an old palace with privileged views of the sea and San Nicolás. Stay in its comfortable rooms in an unbeatable location and relax in its heated pool and jacuzzi. A full gym, bar-cafeteria, and breakfast by the sea complete the offer of this magnificent hotel.
Getxo (Biscay)
This seaside town near Bilbao is known for its Hanging Bridge, which separates it from Portugalete, and its beautiful beaches that are worth visiting. Las Arenas is one of the more urban beaches, while in Azkorri, you’ll find more tranquility. You can also walk along Getxo’s seafront promenade and the old fishing district of Puerto Viejo, which will make you feel like you're in one of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country. Don’t miss the Sireno de Getxo, a work by an Argentine artist showing a man with a fish tail who appears and disappears with the tide.
If you want to visit Getxo, we recommend staying at the Silken Indautxu 4-star hotel, located in the center of Bilbao, just 15 kilometers from Getxo. It’s in a perfect location to explore all of Bilbao and escape to Getxo, and the hotel offers breakfast, a bar, and a cafeteria, as well as bicycle rental to discover the village on two wheels.
Hondarribia (Gipuzkoa)
Right on the border with France, this is one of the most beautiful villages in the French Basque Country and an essential stop. Hondarribia is a fishing village with medieval architecture, beautiful colorful houses, and exquisite gastronomy. Here, you can enjoy delicious pintxos surrounded by history. You can also head to La Marina, the coastal neighborhood where Hondarribia Beach is located, along with some spectacular viewpoints.
Hondarribia is just 20 minutes from San Sebastián, so we recommend staying in the city at the Silken Amara Plaza. In this 4-star hotel in San Sebastián, you’ll stay in a very modern and elegant building with all the comforts of its urban location, including parking where you can leave your vehicle to get around the area. The hotel also has a bar, gym, library area, and a magnificent private art collection.
Accommodation in Silken Hotels
Don’t wait any longer, and start planning your getaway to Euskadi to discover the most beautiful villages of the Basque Country. At Silken Hotels, you’ll find the best hotel offers in the Basque Country to book your stay at the best price, with all the guarantees of our flexible conditions. Take advantage of them!
