Sanctuary of Loyola: A Scenic Journey from Bilbao through Inner Basque Country

Embark on a scenic journey from Bilbao to the province of Gipuzkoa, exploring charming towns, visiting the birthplace of Ignatius of Loyola, and enjoying the coastal beauty of Zumaia and Getaria. Indulge in San Sebastian’s renowned gastronomy and take in the breathtaking view of La Concha Bay from Mount Igeldo.

Duration: 9 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Santuario de Loyola - Guided visit to the famous Sactuary of Loyola, built around the tower house of the Loyola family.
  • Getaria Fishing Port - Walking tour around Getaria, a charming coastal village known for its fishing tradition and birth town of the famous fashion designer Balenciaga.
  • Zarautz - Drive through Zarautz, home to the longest beach in the Basque Country and famous surfing location.
  • San Sebastian - Donostia - Walking tour to discover the beautiful old town.

Free time for lunch. San sebastian has the highest concentration of bars in the world in its city centre, perfect location to enjoy some pintxos.

Panoramic tour up to Igeldo to see the unique views of the bay of La Concha.

What's Included
  • Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach or minivan
  • Explore with a knowledgeable professional guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks, unless specified
Additional Information

Starting from Bilbao, we’ll travel towards the Gipuzkoa province, taking in sights of towns like Eibar, Elgoibar, and Azkoitia. Our journey brings us to the Loyola sanctuary, notable as the birthplace of the region’s most renowned figure, Ignatius of Loyola. Continuing along the coastline, we’ll reach the Zumaia region, home to the quaint fishing village of Getaria with its historical center. Our trip keeps going through Zarauz till we reach San Sebastian, offering you free time for lunch and to indulge in some of the world’s finest cuisines. Post-lunch, we are off to Mount Igeldo, touted for its breathtaking view of La Concha Bay.

  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
  • May be operated by a bilingual guide
  • This tour will take place rain or shine
Location
Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65
Mazarredo Zumarkalea
Please go to the Bus Stop at Tourist Office located next to the Guggenheim Museum. Pick up time at 08.50am (departure time at 09.00am)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(64 Ratings)
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John
Jul 7, 2024
First visit to Bilbao - Our guide was good and shared bilingual Spanish and English. We had a predominate Spanish speaking group , so there are still dynamics you must absorb in being the minority , but he did a good job of managing it. He even tried to get 4 English speaking people on the tour to sit in front of the bus to avoid having the microphone on for both translations, but people who had entered the bus anchored those seats and would not move when requested. Our point. Wing he managed the situation very well and a were made to be welcome . I would do this tour again . Might consider San Sebastián on a day other than Saturday as the locals had many of the restaurants covered. But we worked through that too.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Resort67911985684
Jun 29, 2024
Fun trip - Despite the rain had a very nice day. Nice stops, the guide had a lot of info but his English was sometimes a bit difficult to understand. Sufficient time during the stops
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Janet_h
Jun 16, 2024
great day in Pais Vasco - The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. The itinerary was interesting, fun and well paced. I would highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Danny_h
May 28, 2024
True hidden gem in Spain - This trip was easily one of my favorite experiences while staying in Spain. Our amazing tour guide (I think his name is Garai) took us across the beautiful Basque country and stopped along beautiful landmarks for us to relax and sightsee while he enthusiastically told us about the history and culture. We even got free local seafood tapas at Getaria to make up the minor delay before the trip started: what great service!
Review provided by Viator
Juliopaulryana
May 26, 2024
Great excursion! - Good tour, punctual, wonderful views and tips, and with a surprise at the end of the tour. Thanks Pascu and Aitor!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lynnpq5224ob
May 19, 2024
Bilbao to San Sebastián and Other Stops - Stefan was very thorough between and during the many stops. He knew all the best locations to take pictures and acted as photographer when asked. Well recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Harry
Mar 19, 2024
Good day out. - Great day out in the company of pleasant fellow travelers in a comfortable vehicle driven by very well informed guide. Unrushed but packed with history and beautiful countryside and towns.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Henry_c
Mar 12, 2024
Stefan, what a man. - Stefan met us as arranged and settled us 2 Irishmen and 4 other pleasant people into a clean comfortable minivan. He outlined the itinerary in English and Spanish and prepared us for the journey. Each stop as described in the programme was especially interesting for us and perfectly explained by Stefan. He displayed an excellent range of knowledge about the countryside and the historical landscape of each destination. We enjoyed lunch ( 3 premises) well lubricated by most palatable local wine. We thoroughly enjoyed the company of the other travellers and most especially Stevan’s hard work and jovial personality. Harry
Review provided by Viator
Omaira_w
Jun 21, 2024
Peacefully place for your soul - The visit to the Basilica, was beautiful and memorable , Stefan was very good explaining all about this place
Review provided by Viator
Tine_r
Jul 16, 2024
Bad experience - Bad information/communication flow. Viator do not deliver what they write. The People they hire do not have a sign, on car/clothes where it says VIator. I Will never recommend Them to any of my friends or People I speak with.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 9 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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