Water activities on the Basque coast: surfing, stand up paddle surfing, canoeing, coasteering, and much more
Water activities on the Basque coast: surfing, stand up paddle surfing, canoeing, coasteering, and much more
The land and the sea sometimes merge, forming a soft embrace that results in estuaries of overwhelming beauty, as is the case at Urdaibai. Other times, that passionate encounter of earth and water gives rise to vertical walls of international renown, like the flysch cliffs. With its protected biotopes, marshes, and the proximity of several natural parks, the Basque coast is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy the richness of the sea in combination with nature.
The seafaring culture of the Basque people is legendary. Those of the coast currently live (and have always lived) looking the sea straight in the eye. The sea is synonymous with sustenance and the promise of great adventure. This relationship has borne fruits that range from sport (such as the ‘trainera’ boat regattas that spark passions) to a surprising historical legacy.
The Basque coast has a length of 246 km and features 40 beaches, 50 surfing spots, and more than 100 water tourism companies offering the best plans at sea (all of which are listed in the “Active Tourism in the Basque Coast: Activities and Companies” guide). Among the many options available is the rental of yachts, motorboats, and sailboats with or without a captain for custom outings to the most picturesque ports. There, the flavors stand out, if nothing else. Tasting grilled turbot, Orio-style sea bream, roasted sardines, squid in its ink, and good seafood will transport you to another dimension.
There are also organized trips in catamarans and by ferry, among others, to spot whales, tour the geopark, and sail around the Islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Beginners can learn to sail at one of the dinghy sailing schools, and for those who travel to the Basque Country in their own boat, the Basque coast has 20 marinas. In fact, the first yacht clubs at the ports of Bilbao, Getxo, San Sebastián, and Hondarribia date back to the end of the nineteenth century.
The sportiest can try their hand at stand-up paddle surfing and canoeing. Another discipline in vogue is coasteering, consisting of the use of the coastal orography to combine different water sports and land activities. But the star sport is –and always will be– surfing. The first surfers appeared on the beaches of the Basque Country in the 1950s –pioneers in Europe– and, today, the Basque coast is one of the main surf destinations on the continent for both surfing enthusiasts and those just learning the sport. In fact, there exists here the Surfing Euskadi Club, made up of schools offering personalized classes and surfing camps in incredible places.
Discovering the seabed is another of the favorite activities of tourists, and there are 10 diving centers in Bermeo, Getaria, Getxo, Hondarribia, Mutriku, and Pasaia dedicated to organizing dives. For those who prefer not to go underwater but would like to have fun driving across the sea, there are companies that offer jet ski, flyboard, and jetboard outings. Fun is guaranteed!
Water Activities
