Basque coast and inland tour

Route details

Round trip through the provinces of Álava and Gipuzkoa with coastal section on the Bay of Biscay. The Route connects the Basque capital with the fishing village of Getaria and San Sebastián.

This 244 km Round trip starts in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country. From the city, situated at an altitude of 520 m, the route first heads north through the Basque hinterland to Mondragón, an industrial site in the Deba Valley. It then continues via Elgoibar to the coast.

The coastal section between Getaria and San Sebastián is one of the most scenic passages. The road runs partly directly above the cliffs with a view of the Bay of Biscay. Getaria is a traditional fishing village with a historic town center. The offshore rock Monte San Antón, also known as the "Mouse of Getaria" due to its shape, is a striking landmark. The seafarer Juan Sebastián Elcano, who completed the first circumnavigation of the world in 1522, came from here.

In San Sebastián, the Tour reaches the bay of La Concha. The approximately 1.35 km long city beach is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. The shell-shaped bay is framed by the peaks of Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo.

From the coastal town, the route leads back inland via Ordizia. Ordizia is known for its traditional Wednesday market, which was mentioned in documents as early as the 11th century. Further south, the route passes the medieval town of Salvatierra/Agurain with its walled old town and Gothic fortified churches before returning to Vitoria-Gasteiz.

The character of the route changes several times: from the plateau around Vitoria (approx. 520 m), the route leads through hilly terrain with ascents and descents to the coast. The coastal road has moderate curves, but is narrow in places. The inland segment offers more relaxed riding conditions on well-maintained Country roads.

The road surface is mostly in good condition. There may be more traffic on the coast in the high season (July/August). The section through the Basque hinterland has less traffic. The weather can be expected to be Atlantic: Variable conditions, frequent precipitation possible, especially in the coastal areas.

The route is suitable for riders with basic knowledge of winding terrain. No technically demanding passages, but attention is required on the coastal sections.