URA Tour: Basque Waters

This excursion is part of Romotur’s “In the Element: The Deep Basque Country” series. Ura is the Basque word for “water”, which will be the protagonist on this delightful journey to some of Biscay’s coastal gems. Our first visit of the day will be of Ondárroa, a fishing village with a medieval maritime flair in Eastern Biscay. It is marked by the abruptness of the surrounding cliffs and the tightly winding river that almost surrounds the town nucleus. The active port is connected by the Itsasaurre bridge, (designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava), whose modern style contrasts with the traditional architecture of the town. From here, we will take you along the coast, westwards toward Lekeitio, a town once famous for its whale hunting tradition. Its beauty attracted members of the aristocracy, hence the presence of some examples of noble architecture. Lekeitio has several beaches, and at low tide one can walk to the Island of San Nicolás to learn about its legends. Alternatively (or additionally), it is possible to visit the Santa Catalina lighthouse.