Cantabrian coast to the Basque Country

Route details

Tour from Cantabria through the Basque Country along the Bay of Biscay coast. The route combines the green coastal landscape near Santander with the culinary metropolis of San Sebastián.

The route, which is around 252 kilometers long, leads from El Astillero near Santander eastwards through two autonomous regions of northern Spain: Cantabria and the Basque Country. The start is not far from the Cantabrian capital, with the first few kilometers running through the coastal communities of Somo and Ribamontán al Mar. Flat stretches of coastline and surfing beaches characterize the landscape here.

After passing Arnuero, the route heads towards Castro-Urdiales, the easternmost town in Cantabria. The historic harbor town with its Gothic church of Santa María from the 13th to 15th century and the lighthouse fort is a good place for a short stop. The old town has been a protected historical ensemble since 1978. From there, the route changes to the Basque Country.

The middle section runs through the industrial area around Bilbao. At Muskiz and Barakaldo, the route partly uses Expressways, which enables rapid progress but is less demanding in terms of riding. After Abadiño, the more scenic passage inland begins.

At Tolosa, the Tour reaches a highlight for meat lovers: Casa Julián, the reference for grilled txuleta (beef steak) since 1954, is located here. The small town is the starting point for the last 25 kilometers to San Sebastián.

The finish in Donostia-San Sebastián, the capital of Gipuzkoa, is located directly in the old town. The city was the European Capital of Culture in 2016 and is known for its pintxo bars and La Concha bay. The maritime climate in this region brings mild but rainy conditions. Conditions are most favorable from May to October.

Road conditions vary: The coastal sections and Expressways are mostly well developed. In the hinterland between Abadiño and Tolosa there are more winding sections through hilly countryside. The route is suitable for riders of all levels of experience; there are no technically demanding sections. Traffic can be heavier in the conurbations around Bilbao.