Bilbao: San Juan De Gaztelugatxe and Txakoli Wine Day Trip

Bilbao’s stunning Basque Country offers a day trip that’s sure to captivate adventurous travelers. Explore the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the renowned Txakoli wine region on this intimate 7-hour excursion. Challenge yourself with a 241-step climb to the hermitage, then indulge in delightful wine tastings and a traditional Basque lunch. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking coastal views, this adventure blends exploration and culinary delights. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or seeking an outdoor challenge, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you eager to discover more of the Basque Country’s charms.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Wine Tours In Bilbao.

Key Points

• Explore the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a rocky islet with a 241-step climb and breathtaking coastal views.
• Discover the Txakoli wine region with a winery visit, tasting of three local wines, and regional cuisine pairing.
• Enjoy a guided tour with knowledgeable local experts who provide insights into Basque wine culture and geology.
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Bilbao and a personalized experience with a small group of up to 7 participants.
• Flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, make this day trip easy to plan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Bilbao takes visitors to the stunning coastal landscape of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the renowned Txakoli wine country.

The tour is priced from $245.78 per person and lasts 7 hours. It’s limited to just 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Guests can enjoy the tour in either English or Spanish with a private guide. The package includes round-trip transportation, a visit to a local Txakoli winery for tastings, a regional lunch, and a full exploration of the breathtaking Gaztelugatxe.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an easy way to discover the best of the Basque region.

Itinerary Highlights

Bilbao: San Juan De Gaztelugatxe and Txakoli Wine Day Trip

Visitors can climb the 241 steps to the top of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, taking in the stunning coastal views.

The tour also includes a visit to a local Txakoli winery, where guests can sample three wines paired with appetizers.

Lunch featuring regional dishes and wines is provided as well, followed by an exploration of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This guided tour focuses on Basque wine culture and geology, allowing guests to learn about the unique Txakoli wine and discuss its history and production during the tastings.

The breathtaking scenery, including beaches and cliffs, completes this immersive Basque experience.

Booking Information

Travelers can reserve their spot without an upfront payment, allowing them to book the tour now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Pickup is available from accommodations in Bilbao or the meeting point at the Guggenheim Museum.

Booking this day trip is simple and flexible. Once reserved, guests can pay at their convenience, making it easy to plan their Basque Country adventure. And if plans change, they can get a full refund with just a day’s notice.

The tour’s pickup options ensure a hassle-free start to the day, whether from your hotel or a central meeting spot in Bilbao.

Experience Details

The guided tour focuses on Basque wine culture and geology, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking scenery, including beaches and cliffs.

Travelers will learn about Txakoli wine, a local favorite among Basques, and discuss the wine’s culture and history during tastings.

Along the way, the knowledgeable and friendly guides provide insights into the region’s unique features.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and climb the 241 steps to the stunning viewpoint of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

The tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending the natural beauty of the Basque Country with the rich winemaking traditions that define the local culture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Feedback

Reviewers have consistently praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, highlighting the overall 5-star rating based on 3 reviews. Guests have expressed particular interest in booking additional excursions with these guides, who provide an immersive experience showcasing Basque wine culture and geology.

The tour’s highlights, including the climb up the 241 steps to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the visit to a local Txakoli winery, have left a lasting impression on visitors. While the hiking involved prompts recommendations for comfortable footwear, the breathtaking scenery and expert commentary have made this day trip a must-do activity for those visiting Bilbao.

Scenic Coastal Views

One of the tour’s main highlights is the climb up the 241 steps to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, offering visitors breathtaking coastal views from the top.

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to:

• Panoramic vistas of the Basque coastline and surrounding cliffs

• The iconic hermitage chapel perched atop the rocky headland

• Opportunities to spot seabirds soaring above the crashing waves

• Glimpses of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site

The effort required to reach the summit is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with a stunning natural spectacle that perfectly encapsulates the rugged beauty of the Basque Country.

This is a must-see stop on any Bilbao day trip.

Txakoli Wine Tasting

Alongside the picturesque coastal scenery, the tour features a visit to a local Txakoli winery where guests can sample three of the region’s distinctive white wines paired with appetizers.

Txakoli is a crisp, lightly sparkling wine that’s a local favorite among Basques. During the tasting, knowledgeable guides will discuss the wine’s unique character, history, and production methods.

Guests will learn how the cool, maritime climate of the Basque Country lends itself to the cultivation of the Hondarrabi Zuri grape, which gives Txakoli its signature acidity and subtle citrus notes.

The tasting also provides an opportunity to explore the winery and gain deeper insights into the region’s vibrant wine culture.

Regional Cuisine and Wines

Along With the Txakoli wine tasting, the tour features a delightful lunch showcasing the region’s renowned culinary offerings. Guests can expect to savor a selection of traditional Basque dishes, each thoughtfully paired with complementary local wines to elevate the dining experience.

The tour’s lunch menu includes:

• Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, featuring various savory bites

• Kokotxas, a local delicacy made from the jowls of the hake fish

• Bacalao, a classic salt cod dish with traditional accompaniments

• Txakoli, the celebrated regional white wine, served chilled to perfection

The meal provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to indulge in the rich flavors and traditions that define Basque cuisine and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation Provided to and From the Meeting Point?

Yes, transportation is provided. The tour includes private transfer, which picks up guests from their accommodation in Bilbao or the meeting point at the Guggenheim Museum.

How Much Time Is Allotted for the Winery Visit and Tasting?

The guided tour includes a visit to a local Txakoli winery where travelers can sample three Txakoli wines paired with appetizers. This winery visit and tasting experience typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours as part of the overall 7-hour tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Wines Tasted?

The tour includes a visit to a local Txakoli winery where participants can sample three Txakoli wines paired with appetizers. There are no restrictions on the types of Txakoli wines tasted during this portion of the experience.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Lunch?

The tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Guests should notify the operator of any special dietary needs when booking, so the appropriate arrangements can be made for an enjoyable meal.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Guests can extend the duration or add additional activities like hiking, visiting more wineries, or exploring nearby towns. The tour provider is flexible and willing to accommodate requests.

Recap

This day trip from Bilbao offers a unique blend of adventure and culinary delights.

Visitors can explore the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, hike its 241 steps, and indulge in tastings of the renowned Txakoli wines.

The tour also includes a traditional Basque lunch, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural beauty and local cuisine.

With knowledgeable guides and a small group size, this excursion is a must-do for those seeking to enjoy the Basque Country’s captivating charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: