Embark on a journey designed for you to explore the iconic wonders of the Basque Country and indulge in its splendor. From the symbolic town of Guernica, the beacon of peace, to the picturesque Basque Coast, made famous by the legendary Game of Thrones, and finally, the enchanting Guggenheim Museum. This is an experience not to be missed.
As we journey an hour from San Sebastian, we arrive at the heart of Basque culture and its people, where the lords of Biscay gathered in medieval times to tackle the challenges of their era. Here, we discover two living symbols of Basque history – the Assembly House and the Tree of Guernica. Together, these monuments are declared cultural heritage sites and an embodiment of Basque history.
Universal symbol of the Basques and of Peace
Behold the Casa de Juntas (Assembly house), a grandiose neoclassical structure, standing tall beside the Tree of Guernica. This oak, a universal emblem of the Basques, is host to momentous occasions, such as the inauguration and oath-taking of the Lehendakari. Fun fact: the current tree, the sixth of its kind, was planted in 2015, tracing back to the Middle Ages. Here, you can also admire the Old Tree, its predecessor, which was planted in 1742.
Have you ever heard of the “Fueros” (old laws)? This legal system, which governed the Lordship of Biscay, originates from the customs and traditions that have permeated the land over time, providing the Basque Country with a wide autonomy to this day.
Guernica, once bombed by Allied troops in 1937, inspired one of Picasso’s most significant works, depicting suffering and serving as a direct plea against wars. Here, you can witness a replica of this timeless masterpiece.
A unique natural space
Let us journey towards Mundaka, where the entrance to the spectacular Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve lies. Here, we can witness one of the world’s most renowned waves for surfers, the left hander of the Mundaka estuary. It reaches up to 4 meters in height and extends over 400 meters, just like the Basques – full of personality!
Continuing our tour, we head to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a breathtaking islet connected to the peninsula by a man-made bridge. Did you know that this location served as a Game of Thrones set? It was chosen as one of the Basque Country’s filming locations to recreate Dragonstone, the castle of Daenerys Targaryen, the mother of dragons.
Take your time to marvel at the beauty of its cliffs, incredible tunnels, and beaches, eroded by the relentless ebb and flow of the Cantabrian Sea, while we narrate some of the stories and legends of this enclave.
The most significant hallmark of Bilbao
A must-see attraction is the Guggenheim Museum, the stunning masterpiece by Frank Gehry that marked a turning point for the city. This avant-garde architectural jewel of the 20th century has become the symbol of Bilbao and is one of Spain’s most international museums. You can explore the museum at your leisure with an audio guide or opt for a private guided tour, but advance booking is required.
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