Elorrio, Oñati and Arantzazu Tour Review

The Elorrio, Oñati, and Arantzazu tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich Basque culture and history. From the picturesque traditional village of Elorrio to the captivating Basque university town of Oñati, this tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the region’s architectural gems. However, the true highlight lies in the breathtaking Santuario de Arantzazu, whose stunning design and panoramic vistas leave a lasting impression. While logistics and time management may pose occasional challenges, the engaging stops and knowledgeable guides make this tour a must-consider for those seeking to uncover the essence of the Basque Country.

Key Points

• The tour provides an in-depth exploration of traditional Basque villages, historic universities, and architectural gems like the Santuario de Arantzazu.
• While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is located near public transportation, making it accessible for a wider range of travelers.
• Reviews are mixed, with some praising the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views, while others criticize the quality of transportation and time management.
• The tour offers flexible cancellation terms, allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours before the start, and a convenient reserve now, pay later option.
• Key highlights of the tour include the charming streets and historic architecture of Elorrio, the intellectual tradition of Oñati, and the captivating Santuario de Arantzazu.

Tour Overview and Details

The tour includes a professional guide and transportation by air-conditioned coach or minivan, with gratuities covered.

Food and drinks aren’t included unless specified.

The meeting point is at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, Abando, 48009 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain, near the Guggenheim museum.

Pickup is at 8:50 am, with a 9:00 am departure, ending back at the meeting point.

The tour starts at 8:30 am.

It accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s near public transportation.

Infant seats are available, and children ages 2-12 receive a 50% discount with 2 adults.

A multi-lingual guide may operate the tour.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour offers a glimpse into the Basque Country’s captivating history and culture, beginning with the traditional village of Elorrio. Visitors can enjoy provincial life and marvel at the Church of Santa Maria de la Asuncion. The tour then moves on to Onati, home to the Basque Country’s oldest university, where travelers can explore the medieval tower houses, grand Town Hall, and serpentine streets. Finally, the Santuario de Arantzazu, with its distinctive architecture and panoramic vistas, provides insight into the sanctuary’s rich history.

Highlights	Duration	Admission
Elorrio	1 hour	Free
Onati	1 hour	Free
Santuario de Arantzazu	1 hour	Free

Elorrio: Traditional Village

Elorrio, a traditional village in the Basque Country, showcases the provincial life that has endured for generations. Visitors wander through its charming streets, admiring the quaint houses and historic architecture.

The crown jewel is the Church of Santa Maria de la Asuncion, a stunning example of Basque religious architecture. Tourists can explore the church’s ornate interior and learn about its significance in the local community.

With its peaceful ambiance and glimpse into the region’s past, Elorrio offers a captivating respite from the bustling cities. This stop on the tour provides an authentic taste of Basque culture and tradition.

Oñati: Basque University Town

Nestled in the verdant hills of the Basque Country, Oñati stands as a testament to the region’s rich educational heritage. Home to the oldest university in the Basque Country, this charming town captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval architecture and storied past.

Architectural Highlights	Historic Sites	University Legacy
Picturesque tower houses	Grand Town Hall	Oldest Basque University
Serpentine, winding streets	Basilica of San Miguel	Founded in 1540
Intricate stone facades	Plaza de los Fueros	Center of Basque culture

Exploring Oñati’s labyrinth of lanes, travelers can discover the town’s enduring connection to Basque identity and intellectual tradition, making it a truly captivating stop on the tour.

Santuario De Arantzazu: Architectural Gem

Moving from the historic charm of Oñati, the tour now sets its sights on the distinctive Santuario de Arantzazu, an architectural marvel nestled amidst the region’s breathtaking vistas.

This striking sanctuary was designed by local sculptors, showcasing a unique blend of modern and traditional elements. Visitors can explore the intricate facades and interiors, learning about the sanctuary’s rich history and spiritual significance.

The panoramic views from the site offer a stunning backdrop, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the Basque Country’s natural beauty.

This one-hour stop promises to be a highlight of the tour, offering a captivating exploration of the area’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, with infant seats available for those traveling with children.

It’s not wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

The multilingual guide may operate the tour, and minimum numbers are required for the tour to run. If the minimum isn’t met, the tour may be canceled.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.

Cancellation Policy and Reviews

The tour offers flexible cancellation terms, allowing travelers to receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This makes planning easier, as it provides a safety net in case of unexpected changes.

Plus, the tour company offers a reserve now, pay later option, which further enhances the convenience. The cancellation policy is reasonable and customer-friendly.

The tour has received mixed reviews, with praise for the beauty and history of the visited areas, as well as the knowledgeable and engaging guides.

However, some negative experiences related to transport quality and time management have been reported. The highlights include the breathtaking views at the Santuario de Arantzazu.

Since You Asked

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The overview indicates there are no restrictions on photography at the tour stops, allowing visitors to capture the beauty and historical sites along the way.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for this tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Layers are recommended as some sites may be cooler than others. The tour focuses on exploring the local culture, not fashion.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs During the Stops?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs during the stops on the tour. The itinerary includes time at each location where travelers can browse local shops and markets for unique regional items to take home as mementos.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any meals, so there are no special dietary requirements. Travelers can bring their own snacks or purchase food during the stops if they have any dietary needs or preferences.

Can We Extend the Tour or Add Additional Stops?

The tour doesn’t offer any options to extend it or add additional stops. However, travelers can explore the regions on their own before or after the tour if they’d like to see more of the Basque Country.

The Sum Up

The Elorrio, Oñati, and Arantzazu tour offers a captivating exploration of Basque culture and history. While some logistical issues may arise, the overall experience is enhanced by engaging stops in picturesque villages and the breathtaking views at Santuario de Arantzazu, making it a worthwhile journey for those seeking to enjoy the Basque Country’s rich heritage.