Overview
An excursion to walk, among forests and cliffs, to a lighthouse done up like a medieval castle. What else? Some crazy people who build a 16th century ship with traditional techniques, a fjord that must be crossed by boat, a Venetian town that the writer of Les Miserables fell in love with, and a reasonably high mountain by the sea. More? A half-fishing and half-medieval town that whetted the appetite of the New York Times itself.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Albaola Musem visit
Private tour
Driver/guide
Traditional Basque lunch with local wine
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What to expect
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We will pick you up in the morning and walk to Gros district. From Sagües you’ll start the hike of Mount Ulia that forms a part of the coastal version of pilgrimage called by Spaniards ‘camino de Santiago’ or St. James Way in English.
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Monte Ulia
2 hours 30 min
This path is locally known as ‘Ruta del Faro de la Plata’ because it pases next to the bulit in 1855 lighthouse (sp. faro) located at the entrance to the port of Pasajes. You will walk along rocky coast passing spectacular coves, rugged cliffs and artistically shaped sandstone rock formations. Mount Ulia was an important migratory whales lookout in 16th and 17th century and it’s a perfect place to learn about the significant role of ocean in the life of Basques.
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Albaola, The Sea Factory of the Basques
30 min
The coastal path will finally take us to the village of San Pedro. It’s time to visit Albaola - the sea factory of the Basques. Museum and a shipyard where the local engineers and carpenters are building from scratch a replica of 16th century whaling ship using exclusively traditional techniques!
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Pasai Donibane
20 min
From San Pedro we will embark on a tiny boat which will take us to the twin village - San Juan located on the other side of the channel. You will immerse yourself in a sleepy atmosphere of this medieval fishing village and enjoy a 3-course traditional Basque lunch with a bottle of local wine! Topa (cheers)!
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Jaizkibel
20 min
Having discovered colorful stories of Basque sailors, pirates and whalers you will be chauffeured to Hondarribia. We will drive along a scenic Mount Jaizkibel road. The 457 m high Jaizkibel mountain is considered one of the major areas of biodiversity in the Cantabrian Coast and the view from its top are just breathtaking!
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Historic Center of Hondarribia
30 min
Hondarribia! It’s high time to discover this picturesque town located right on the border with France. You will visit the fortified part of Hondarribia. Its narrow streets, flowers draped from the balconies and medieval charm creates an extraordinary atmosphere and cultural context. We will also take time to discover a hidden collection of tapestries by Rubens in the castle of Emperor Charles V.
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30 min
Next up, you will continue towards the fishermen’s village called Marina, where the elderly congregate on benches along packed with bustling pintxo bars San Pedro Street. Colorful buildings located along this promenade used to be old fish markets and fishermen’s huts.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Madrid).
Additional Information
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 7 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about St.JAMES WAY, Basque WHALERS and HONDARRIBIA - Private Cultural Adventure
Can I cancel St.JAMES WAY, Basque WHALERS and HONDARRIBIA - Private Cultural Adventure for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 9 hours.
Is pickup offered?
Pickup is offered for all travelers.
What's included?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Albaola Musem visit
- Private tour
- Driver/guide
- Traditional Basque lunch with local wine
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
What's not included?
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Monte Ulia, Albaola, The Sea Factory of the Basques, Pasai Donibane, Jaizkibel, Historic Center of Hondarribia.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English, Spanish.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Ikusnahi Tours
