Tucked away along the coast of Gipuzkoa province in the autonomous community of the Basque Country in the North of Spain, the autumn sunlight streams down on the blue sea, the green txakoli-covered fields, and the sheep spotted hills, as a few pilgrims hike past with St. James sea shells on their back packs.
Getaria, Zumaia and Zarautz are three towns which capture the coastal Basque beauty, frequently visited by surfers and food lovers exploring beyond Donostia-San Sebastián. These fishing towns offer warmth as you sit enjoying a pintxo and a txakoli at one of the many fresh seafood restaurants. Then, whether you are a bodyboarder or a surfer or just a walk-along-the-beach-er, you can enjoy the waves at one of several excellent breaks, the azul blues swelling from flat in the summer to 3 meters in autumn.
There are many places to recommend to eat: Txoko in Getaria is very reasonably priced with excellent food. And next door in Zarautz, Karlos Arguiñano’s famous restaurant has won acclaim and boasts a four star hotel to boot. For excellent accommodation in Getaria, consider Saiaz Getaria Hotel located in a historic Gothic building, a 15th century guard tower. Check out the surf from your sea view room, or at the gorgeous lookout from your breakfast table.
However you visit these towns, for an afternoon or a month long-stay, you will leave charmed. The people, the food, the landscape— outstanding.
Words & Photography by Jonathan McCallum
