You want to discover the Spanish Basque Country ? We recommend San Sebastian! Just 45 minutes from the OYAM Campsite by motorway, the World Capital of Culture 2016 will amaze you with its festive and friendly atmosphere, its unique architectural and cultural heritage, its sandy beaches and its world-renowned gastronomy.
You will begin your visit at the Bay of La Concha and will notice as you walk that the beach, shaped like a shell, closes at its ends on two hills.
At the eastern end is Mount Urgull, recognizable by the statue of Christ that overlooks it, like the Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro. If you feel like it, you can start its ascent thanks to the pedestrian path that has been built. From the top you will have a panoramic view of the city of Donostia (San Sebastian in Basque). Your imagination will let you notice the turtle shape that the island of Santa Clara takes.
For the less athletic, the funicular of Mount Igueldo will take you to the top. Up there you will have a breathtaking view of the city. The old-fashioned amusement park, at the top of the mountain, will delight children.
If you have time left, go back down to the city and lose yourself in the streets of old San Sebastian. Passing by the Plaza de la Constitución you will notice numbers written on the balconies. It's up to you to guess why! Among the other monuments of the city, take a tour of the Church of San Vicente, the Ayuntamiento, the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd and the San Telmo Museum.
Another must-see in the capital of Gipuzkoa is its Aquarium. Inaugurated in 1928, it is the first natural science museum in Spain. It is divided into 3 parts: the oceanarium and its glass tunnel to admire the marine world as if you were swimming with the fish, the themed aquariums and the tactile aquarium that will give you the opportunity to touch various marine species.
The World Capital of Culture 2016 is not only known for its landscapes and architectural heritage but also for its gastronomy. In fact, the city has 17 Michelin stars and among the 7 restaurants awarded 3 stars, 3 are located in the Basque city. You will not be able to leave the city without having tasted the pintxos (tapas of San Sebastian) and a small glass of Txakoli (young and fruity white wine).
Every year during the week of August 15, the city welcomes you for the Big weekThe programme includes musical scenes, a parade of giants, horse races, traditional entertainment and, above all, the Grand International Fireworks Competition on the Bay of La Concha, attracting fireworks experts from all over the world.
To come to San Sebastian we do not recommend taking the car. The best option will be to go to Hendaye Train Station (free parking nearby). To the left of the station you will see a small platform where it will be indicated Eusko Train. There you will take the Topo (mole in Spanish) which will take you to the center of San Sebastian for around €5.10 return.
For hiking enthusiasts, a superb walk on the Basque-Spanish coastal path is possible from the village of Pasaia to San Sebastian. With the Topo, stop at the Herrera stop. From the station, then join the hiking trail and off you go for 3 hours of breathtaking walking! The difference in altitude remains low, which allows you to do the walk with the family. Sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended. For the return you can take the topo directly from San Sebastian to return to Hendaye.
Enjoy your visit!