Basque Coast & Cultural Icons | Day Trip to Gernika, Urdaibai & Guggenheim
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Begin your day at your own pace with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao. Enjoy a generous breakfast buffet served daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, or opt for à la carte options available from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Bar Americano, located in the lobby. Breakfast is included each day—just charge it to your room. Savor the fresh, flavorful offerings and take your time as you ease into a day of discovery and adventure.
9:00 AM: Depart from the hotel by private van for an immersive full-day excursion exploring the countryside, coast, and city highlights of the Basque region.
Our journey begins with a scenic drive along the winding back roads of the Basque coast, offering spectacular views of the sea, cliffs, and charming villages. Along the way, we'll stop frequently to take in the landscape and breathe the fresh ocean air.
Our first stop is Gernika (Guernica)—a town steeped in history and immortalized by Picasso's famous painting. You'll learn about the 1937 bombing during the Spanish Civil War and visit the legendary Gernika Tree, under which generations of leaders made just decisions, as praised by philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
Next, we visit Urdaibai, a stunning UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where rivers, mountains, wetlands, and sea come together in ever-changing harmony. Depending on the tide, the landscape may vary dramatically, creating a dynamic habitat for birdlife.
From there, we continue to Mundaka, a picturesque coastal town and world-famous surfing destination, known for having one of the most perfect left-hand waves on the planet.
Then it's on to the dramatic viewpoint of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a legendary islet connected to the mainland by a 241-step stone bridge. Made famous by Game of Thrones as "Dragonstone," the breathtaking cliffs and crashing waves are all very real.
After a morning full of discovery, enjoy lunch on your own at one of the coastal towns or en route to Bilbao.
In the afternoon, we return to the city to explore the Guggenheim Museum, one of the most iconic landmarks in contemporary architecture. Opened in 1997, the museum is credited with transforming Bilbao into a world-class cultural destination. Admire major works of modern and contemporary art, and be welcomed by the beloved "Puppy" sculpture, a massive floral dog guarding the entrance.
We will return back to the hotel around 4:00 PM. Free time until we meet in the lobby for dinner.
7:30 PM – Meet in the hotel lobby to connect with your fellow travelers before enjoying a leisurely walk to a nearby restaurant.
8:00 PM – Delight in a flavorful dinner at a local restaurant. Dinner will be at Sernates 2, within walking distance of the hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight Stay: Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection