The five most spectacular sunsets in the Basque Country
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The five most spectacular sunsets in the Basque Country

Lekeitio
16th March, 2023
Lekeitio

Coast Nature Rioja Alavesa Mountains and Valleys

Every sunset is uniquely special, perfect for enjoying with company.

Sunsets are one of the most photographed events in the world. This magical moment that marks the end of the day and the beginning of the night arouses such admiration and passion that it even has its own word: opacarophilia. They are so popular that more and more people travel in search of the best place to watch the sun go down. 

In the Basque Country we don't have a Taj Mahal or a Grand Canyon to watch the sun set over, but we do have lots of places to spend some unforgettable moments enjoying this time of day.

Want to find out which are the best? Below we list our top 5.

1. Paseo de la Galea, Getxo

WITH OUTSTANDING VIEWS OF THE BIZKAIA COASTLINE

This promenade in the town of Getxo offers panoramic views of the nearby beaches and harbours. It starts from the Aixerrota windmill and runs past beaches including Gorrondatxe. It also runs beside the beach of Arrigunaga, with numerous bars where you can take in the views.

This is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset, as you can enjoy it from any point on the promenade to be sure of great views and total peace and quiet.

If you choose Arrigunaga beach you can see how the last rays of the sun shine over the sea, while if you watch it from the promenade you can see the sun set behind the mountain of Serantes.

Truly spectacular!

Spectacular sunset where sea and sky merge
People watching the sunset on the Paseo de la Galea, Getxo

2. Zarautz beach

STROLL ALONG THE LONGEST SANDY BEACH IN THE BASQUE COUNTRY

On the coastline of Gipuzkoa province is Zarautz, a popular destination for families, especially in summer, as it has the longest beach in the Basque country, famous throughout the surfing world for its magnificent waves.

A perfect place to see the sunset is the promenade, where you can watch the sun go down over the coast towards Getaria.

If you prefer more peace and quiet, you can watch it from Getaria, by the campsite, where you can see the sun's last rays in a natural setting. 

One of the gems of our coastline!

3. Ullíbarri-Gamboa reservoir, Arrazua-Ubarrundia

A WETLAND OF ENORMOUS ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE

Ullíbarri-Gamboa is the most popular reservoir in the whole of the Basque Country. It is the biggest reserve of water in Bizkaia and Álava provinces and one of the most popular places to visit in the summer months. A unique spot in a natural setting, with two well-known beaches distinguished with a blue flag: Landa and Garaio.

We recommend you watch the sunset in the dead forest of Landa, just 20 minutes from the car park, beside the famous sunken boat. An unusual but fascinating place to watch the sun's rays reflected on the water.

Not forgetting Ullíbarri-Gamboa beach, where you can watch the colours of the sunset merge as you enjoy the relaxing sound of the water.

A place that won't disappoint you!

The Ullíbarri-Gamboa reservoir, one of the most popular spots for the people of Álava province
Stunning sunset over the Ullíbarri-Gamboa reservoir

4. Laga beach, Ibarrangelu

RIGHT IN THE BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Located in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve beside Cabo Ogoño, this fine sandy beach with its golden dunes is a must in Bizkaia province. It is the surfing centre of the area, as it is an open beach with short but intense waves.

A classic if you're looking for the best sunset in the Basque Country, because its stunning location surrounded by green and mountains makes Laga a unique place to watch the sky and the clouds turn orange, red and pink.

You can do this from the beach itself or from the viewpoint of Ogoño, but in both places you'll get an outstanding sunset.

Nature in its purest state!

Laga, a must to watch the sunset
Picture of the sunset on a deserted Laga beach

5. Monte Igeldo, San Sebastián 

GRAB A STUNNING PHOTO

In the west of San Sebastián you'll find this iconic, easy-to-reach hill with its funfair. This location and its peak, 181 metres above sea level, give it some exceptional views of La Concha bay and the Bay of Biscay, as well as other places on the Gipuzkoa coastline.

Without a doubt this is a must, to savour a glorious sunset with the capital of Gipuzkoa province as a backdrop.

Another option to watch the sunset is the Paseo de la Concha, right in the city, a perfect place to relax with a pintxo or your favourite drink while you enjoy this special time of day.

A spectacular sunset right in the city!

 

This is our ranking of the five most spectacular sunsets. Can you think of another? Share it on our social networks.