From San Sebastian: Guided Coastal Hike With Winery Tasting

Experience the stunning coastal landscapes of the Basque Country on this guided hiking adventure from San Sebastian. You’ll venture along the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago, taking in breathtaking ocean vistas and historic towns. But the real treat comes when you visit a local winery to sample the region’s renowned txakoli wines. What secrets about this captivating corner of Spain await your discovery?

Key Points

• Experience a guided coastal hike along the Basque Country’s shoreline, with a scenic train ride to the starting point in Zarautz.
• Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery, featuring the region’s distinctive txakoli wines paired with local pintxos.
• Explore the historic town of Getaria, including a visit to the childhood home of fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga.
• The tour lasts 5.5-6 hours and is available in Spanish and English for private or small groups.
• Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but the tour is not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is an activity that combines a guided coastal hike along the Basque Country’s stunning shoreline with a tasting experience at a local winery.

Departing from San Sebastian, the 5.5-6 hour experience costs from $185.68 per person. The tour operates rain or shine and is available in Spanish and English for private or small groups.

It’s likely to sell out, so travelers should check availability for starting times. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility limitations.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from either Amara-Donostia station or Zarautz, the tour begins with a scenic train ride to Zarautz.

Guests then visit the local farmer’s market, excluding Sundays.

Visitors explore the local farmer’s market, which is closed on Sundays.

Next, they’ll hike part of the Camino de Santiago‘s Northern Way, taking in the scenic coastal views.

The highlight is a visit to a local winery where they’ll sample 2-3 txakoli wines.

Finally, the tour explores the historic town of Getaria, known for its culinary delights.

Participants can then choose to return to San Sebastian or explore Getaria independently.

Scenic Train Ride to Zarautz

Guests embark on a scenic train ride from either Amara-Donostia station or Zarautz, traversing the picturesque coastal landscapes en route to Zarautz.

The train winds through charming seaside towns, offering breathtaking views of the Basque Country’s rugged cliffs and turquoise waters.

During the journey, travelers can gaze out the windows, soaking in the serene natural beauty that defines this region.

The train ride serves as a leisurely prelude to the guided coastal hike, allowing participants to settle in and prepare for the active portion of the excursion.

Hike on the Camino De Santiago’s Northern Way

After arriving in Zarautz, participants embark on a scenic hike along the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago, a renowned pilgrimage route that traverses the rugged Basque coastline.

Participants embark on a scenic hike along the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago, a renowned pilgrimage route traversing the rugged Basque coastline.

The hike offers:

1. Breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding cliffs.

2. Opportunities to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the Camino de Santiago.

3. Insights into the local flora and fauna from the knowledgeable guide.

4. A chance to immerse in the serene atmosphere and peaceful rhythm of the hike.

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Wine Tasting at a Local Winery

Upon completing the hike along the Camino de Santiago’s Northern Way, the tour shifts its focus to a local winery nestled in the Basque region.

Guests will sample 2-3 txakoli wines, the region’s distinctive white wine. Paired with local pintxos, such as tuna, cheese, and salted anchovies, the tasting offers a chance to savor the area’s renowned culinary traditions.

The knowledgeable guide provides insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir that gives txakoli its bright, refreshing flavor.

This wine tasting caps off the immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the Basque coastal lifestyle.

Exploring the Historical Town of Getaria

Following the wine tasting, the tour ventures into the charming town of Getaria.

Getaria is known for its historical significance and renowned cuisine. The tour explores:

Getaria, known for its historical significance and renowned cuisine, is explored on the tour.

1. The medieval fishing village’s picturesque harbor and winding streets.

2. The 16th-century Gothic-style San Salvador Church, a notable landmark.

3. The childhood home of the famous fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga, now a museum.

4. Panoramic views from the Ratón de Getaria, a unique rock formation along the coastline.

With its blend of history, architecture, and local culinary delights, Getaria offers a memorable conclusion to the coastal hiking adventure.

Dining Recommendations in Getaria

Several exceptional dining options await visitors in Getaria, each offering a unique gastronomic experience.

The renowned Elkano restaurant boasts a Michelin star and an average price of $270 for two. Kaia Kaipe, the second-best option, is similarly priced.

For a more familiar atmosphere and larger portions, Astillero offers meals around $200. Balearri, a beachside option, averages $180 for two.

Those seeking budget-friendly pintxo bars should visit Amona Maria, Politena, Itxaspe, and Maruka.

Whether seeking high-end cuisine or casual local fare, Getaria provides an array of culinary delights to satisfy any palate.

Customer Testimonials

Travelers have consistently praised the guided coastal hike with winery tasting, awarding it a stellar 5/5 rating based on 10 reviews.

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

1. Informative and friendly guides, such as Telmo and Jon, who provide engaging historical insights during the tour.

2. Stunning scenic views and opportunities to immerse in local Basque culture along the hike.

3. Memorable experiences savoring txakoli wines paired with authentic pintxos, complementing the overall culinary adventure.

4. The tour’s ability to seamlessly blend outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and premium food and wine experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation Included From San Sebastian to the Starting Location?

The tour includes transportation from the starting location to the hike and winery. However, transportation from San Sebastian to the starting point is not provided and is the responsibility of the participants.

What Is the Refund Policy for Cancellations Less Than 24 Hours in Advance?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for a refund.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Different Fitness Levels or Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate different fitness levels and interests. Private or small group options are available, allowing the guide to tailor the experience based on the participants’ preferences and abilities.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies the Tour Can Accommodate?

The tour can accommodate various dietary restrictions and allergies, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Guests should inform the tour provider of any special dietary needs at the time of booking to ensure the experience is tailored to their requirements.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students, Seniors, or Large Groups?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for students, seniors, or large groups. However, they do provide private or small group options that may be more affordable for larger parties. The standard pricing starts at $185.68 per person.

The Sum Up

This guided coastal hike from San Sebastian offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, culture, and oenological delights. Traversing the Camino de Santiago’s Northern Way, hikers are treated to stunning seaside vistas before indulging in a tasting of the region’s renowned txakoli wines. Capped off by a visit to the historic town of Getaria, this excursion provides an unforgettable glimpse into the Basque Country’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: