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Welcome! THE BASQUE COUNTRY ideal to enjoy in short stages.

There’s no room for more. Because it’s hard to find so many stunning places so close to one another. The Basque Country is the ideal place to enjoy numerous attractions in a short space of time: varied landscapes, pleasant climate, ancient culture, word-famous cuisine... Two colours will accompany you on your journey through the Basque Country: the green of the incomparable setting of its mountains and valleys, and the blue of the sea. You will see that the Basque people have strong links with these natural environments: land and sea. Both have been determining factors in a lifestyle revealed by their idiosyncrasies: deeply rooted customs, a rich culture, traditional sports...

To better understand the nature of these people it is important that you immerse yourself in its traditions, exploring the fishing ports and the life of the countryside... On the coast you will see how the Cantabrian Sea has marked the personality of the neighbouring villages. You will also notice the difference between their inhabitants and the inland people. If you explore the history of the outstanding figures who have marked the personality of these communities you will discover how their maritime, industrial and agricultural character, always diverse and enterprising, has been bred.

Experiment, observe, then give way to the passion of taste.

www.basquecountrytourism.eus And if you find the coastal and inland villages interesting, you will Eating and drinking well is an affordable luxury in the Basque The tourism brand which acts as an introduction to the tourism be no less fascinated by the three capitals. will surprise you Country: local seasonal products in pintxo form with a good wine offer in the Basque Country: In the national market: EUSKADI. In with its transformation from an industrial city to an avant garde from the Rioja Alavesa, or cider. You will be in gourmet the international market: BASQUE COUNTRY. Except in markets metropolis bringing together the great contemporary international paradise! Enjoy! Experiment, observe, then give way to the passion where the brand adapted to their language is considered more architects. San Sebastian, exquisite and unique, will seduce you of taste. effective, as in the case of France, Germany and Italy. with its beautiful and stately setting. Vitoria-Gasteiz will show you EUSKADI-PAYS BASQUE; BASKENLAND; PAESI BASCHI its rich heritage and why it sets a worldwide benchmark in urban planning. TOURISM BRANDS BILBAO

Bilbao is the capital of Bizkaia, as well as a metropolis and economic and financial centre of the Basque Country. It is the largest city in the Basque Country (1,000,000 inhabitants) and is a university town.

The Ría (estuary) of Bilbao, the backbone of the metropolis: from the Old Quarter to the Bizkaia Bridge. It is also a city surrounded by small mountains, such as Mount Artxanda, and infrastructures, as for example the cruise port and the main airport in the region and the north of : the international gateway.

Internationally renowned for its urban regeneration, Bilbao won the Nobel Prize for Cities in 2010: “Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize”.

IN BILBAO, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Bizkaia Transporter Bridge, World Heritage Site.

- The City´s Museums: Guggenheim and Fine Arts (now one of the leading paintings and sculpture museums in Spain). The Alhóndiga, The Ethnographic and Basque History Museum, The Reproductions Museum, Athletic Football Club, , etc.

- Its cutting-edge and signature architecture: works by the world´s most famous contemporary architects (Frank Gehry, Norman Foster, Isozaki, Zaha Hadid and Philippe Starck).

- Take a stroll: through the Old Quarter, and its famous 7 streets, through the Ensanche and up Mount Artxanda, which offers a panoramic view of the city and can be accessed by funicular (cable railway). - Eating-Out: the whole range of Basque gastronomy: from pintxos - Attend: conferences, trade fairs and meetings (BEC, Euskalduna, (similar to Spanish tapas) to haute cuisine, not forgetting the Guggenheim, etc.), festivals and cultural events, popular and traditional dishes. traditional festivals such as bulls, Semana Grande (week of local festivities), Holy Week, etc. - Stay: the best range of accommodation in the Basque Country.

- Shopping: at leading brand stores, as well as for original Recommended for being closest to Bilbao are products in specialised shops. The Ribera Market is well worth Donostia/San Sebastián, the Basque Coast, a visit as is the traditional annual Santo Tomás market (21st the and Valleys and Rioja Alavesa. December). DONOSTIA SAN SEBASTIÁN

Donostia/San Sebastián is the capital of and the major city of the Basque Coast (180,000 inhabitants). A city open to the sea, historically regarded the tourist capital of the Basque Country and is close to France.

It boasts one of the most beautiful bays in the world: La Concha, and three city beaches. San Sebastian is surrounded by mountains and viewpoints: Igeldo, Urgull, Ulia and the Isle of Santa Clara, lie on either side of the River .

IN SAN SEBASTIÁN, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- The Old Quarter, its streets and iconic buildings.

- The romantic area of the city and its buildings with French influences.

- San Telmo Museum and the Aquarium.

- Take a stroll: walks and nature-related activities on foot and/or by bicycle along the promenade from the “Peine de los Vientos” sculptures to the Kursaal, up the urban mountains, their parks - Attend: conferences, trade fairs and meetings at the Kursaal and gardens and enjoy the delightful pace of life by the sea or go Palace, festivals and popular events, such as the Tamborrada surfing at its beaches. (drum procession), Santo Tomás agricultural and gastronomic fair, the International Film Festival, La Concha Pennant, the hippodrome and the casino.

- Shopping: in the Ensanche and the Old Quarter.

- Eating out: the city of gastronomy par excellence: with more Michelin stars per square metre than any other in the world. Go for pintxos in the Old Quarter and other neighbourhoods of the city. Likewise sidrerías or cider houses are also a good choice.

- Accommodation: the city offers a wide range of hotels and some of the most iconic hotels in the Basque Country.

Recommended for being closest to Donostia/ San Sebastián, are Bilbao, the Basque Coast, the Basque Mountains and Valleys. VITORIA GASTEIZ

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital of , Vitoria is the administrative capital of the Basque Country (250,000 inhabitants). It also boasts the most important logistics centre in the north of Spain and is surrounded by nature.

Hervorzuheben sind ihre Altstadt und die mittelalterliche The historic centre and original almond medieval shape is noteworthy, particularly the cathedral (in this 3 cathedral city) which although undergoing restoration remains open, noteworthy is the modern, well-planned, user-friendly and accessible urban planning, as well as the surrounding green belt. In 2012, it was the “European Green Capital”. - Shopping: At its confectioners, mainly in the pedestrian and IN VITORIA, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST: commercial area and at the medieval “almond” market.

- Its old quarter and the so-called medieval “almond”, where the - Eating-Out: its sweets are famous for their quality. The wines and Cathedral of Santa Maria lies and its unique project called “Open gastronomy of the Rioja Alavesa. for Work”, which inspired Ken Follett in his novel “World Without - Accommodation: at its new, fully accessible hotels. End”. Visit the 5 towers, the historic streets and the walls in this part of the city. Recommended for being closest to Vitoria-Gasteiz are Rioja Alavesa and the Basque Mountains and Valleys. - Museums: Bibat, Artium, Fine Arts Ajuria Enea: Residence of the President of the Basque Country.

- The new, well-planned urban layout of Vitoria-Gasteiz.

- Take a stroll: through the “green belt”, with pathways, lakes and reservoirs integrated into nature that is full of flora and fauna, through the towns and villages of Vitoria (Estibaliz, Armentia, Foronda, etc.)

- Attend: its renowned jazz festival and local festivities, among which San Prudencio (28th April) and La Blanca (August) are particularly noteworthy.

- Things to do: nature sports (green belt), bird watching (lakes and reservoirs) and visit Ataria, the Interpretation Centre of the Salburua Wetlands. IN THE BASQUE MOUNTAINS AND VALLEYS, THE The Basque FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Its villages, rural traditions, lifestyle (30,000 farmhouses), Mountains and heritage, rural sports, processions, etc.

Valleys are - Its landscape that has been shaped by man: coalmines, salt mines, mines, foundries, quarries, etc. our natural - Museums: ecological, industrial, interpretation centres, etc. environment - Take a stroll: through the accessible natural environment, through the conservation areas, up the mythical mountains (, , , Aizgorri, Ernio), through its valleys The quiet Euskadi. They are a reflection of culture and traditions: and regions, through its forests and rivers. Gernika and the General Assembly House, beacons, myths and legends of the Basque Country, the farmhouse and the way of life, - Attend: competitions, rural sports, processions, rural sports. fairs and markets.

Natural parks are a highlight, as too is the Camino de Santiago - Activities: activities in nature including MTB, trekking, and other religious sites in: Loiola (home of St. Ignatius of orienteering, potholing, etc. Loyola, founder of the Jesuits), Arantzazu, La Antigua, Zenarruza, Estibaliz, . - Shopping: traditional gastronomy products (Eusko label), , Cider, Txakoli, tinned produce. Basque artisan products and ceramics.

- Eating-Out: traditional food (authentic, local products).

- Accommodation: in rural accommodation and charming hotels.

From the Basque Mountains and Valleys, visit for example the Basque Coast, Rioja Alavesa, Bilbao, Donostia/ San Sebastián and Vitoria-Gasteiz. ON THE BASQUE COAST, THE FOLLOWING ARE The Basque Coast A MUST:

- Its fishing villages, medieval towns and cosmopolitan cities giving The Basque Coast is very diverse: there are fishing villages and you an insight into the way of life by the sea, based around fishing seaside towns, with city beaches and other beaches that will blow and the fishing heritage (fish markets, festivities, gastronomy). you away. Marinas, marshes, estuaries lined by sea cliffs and an active sea. - SPAs.

Among its emblematic towns and areas, , , - Its natural corners: conservation areas and wetlands, viewpoints Getxo and , La Concha bay in San Sebastian, San Juan de and watchtowers. Gaztelugatxe, the Getaria Mouse, Bilbao and the Bizkaia Bridge, the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve and the Geopark stand out. The - Its network of museums on the Basque Coast (among others: the Basque Coast also boasts a rich maritime culture and many Museo Balenciaga in Getaria, the Bilbao Maritime Museum, the illustrious seafarers: Elcano, Cosme Damián de Churruca or Víctor Fishermen’s Museum in , the Oiasso Roman Museum Hugo. in , the Albaola Maritime Factory in , and the Santa Catalina Lighthouse in Lekeitio, the Aquarium of Donostia,…).

- Walking: On the Basque coast nature´s green sweeps down to the sea: Take a stroll through Urdaibai, the Flysch route, along cliffs, through the painted forest of Oma, visit the wetlands and wild beaches or routes, such as the Camino de Santiago along the coast.

- Attend: sports competitions, some of which are international, such as surfing, sailing and other unique sports like ( boat races). Attend local festivities and fish markets.

- Practicar: water sports (surfing, sailing, diving), trekking and activities in nature, bird watching and whale watching.

- Shopping: tinned fish, txakoli.

- Eating-Out: fish paired with txakoli. Excellent gastronomy.

- Accommodation: in charming rural houses, small family run hotels and campsites.

Given how close it is from the Basque Coast visit Bilbao and the Basque Mountains and Valleys. Rioja Alavesa

Rioja Alavesa is a land of ancient vineyards, producing unique wine from its tempranillo Grape. Watered by the river Ebro and surrounded by Sierra of , this region boasts the most spectacular wineries: such as Ysios, Baigorri, Riscal, Viñarreal- CVNE, with wine villages and family run wineries as well as a product with structure: Rioja Alavesa Wine Route.

IN RIOJA ALAVESA, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Its villages: Laguardia, Labraza, Elciego, Samaniego, Labastida.

- Its state of the art wineries

- Its traditional family run wineries

- The Balcony of Rioja

- Its thousand year old heritage: the historic town Poblado de La Hoya, dolmens

- Take a stroll: through vineyards and historic villages.

- Attend: traditional wine events and festivities. Tastings and sampling.

- Activities: trekking, bird watching, cycling, wine therapy.

- Shopping: Rioja Alavesa wines

- Eating-Out: gastronomy and wine

- Accommodation: in rural accommodation and at new charming hotels such as Marqués de Riscal.

From Rioja Alavesa because of how close it is, visit the Basque Mountains and Valleys, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Bilbao and Donostia- San Sebastián. TOURISM PRODUCTS The Basque Country boasts a variety of themed products which compete as a destination; it is a “multiproduct destination”. Priority Basque tourism products are: touring, Food and wine, culture and MICE. Likewise city breaks, nature and coast are considered to be top priority. Products that complete the diversity of the offer, both in terms of the landscape and the experiences Euskadi provides. PRIORITY PRODUCTS

The main product line is Touring. This product aims to take the potential tourist through the region and is based on a series of three proposed routes through the Basque Country and its brands: The Meetings product line, which includes the set of products one of 4 days for long weekends and short trips, and another two of for Conferences, Meetings, Conventions and Incentives, is the 7 and 15 days for longer trips. most important product for business tourism. It is closely linked to major user facilities, such as conference centres and other Gastronomy and Wine is an important product line in the Basque unique spaces and to the specific offers of hotels and specialized Country as it is one of the most identifying elements of its image organisations. It is therefore linked to the brands of the three and positioning, thanks to the quality of what is on offer and the cities, which already have specific development organisations, power of its legendary product brands and authors. The main product is the Rioja Alavesa wine, but there are a number of other the Convention Bureaux, with programmes focused on this target proposals in the form of routes, such as txakoli, cider houses, public. pintxos, signature restaurants, etc. The main brands in this offer are the Rioja Alavesa and San Sebastián brands, however because of the cross-reality throughout Euskadi other brands are also present.

The Club Euskadi Gastronomika, a network made up of restaurants, bars, shops, and other gastronomic establishments and committed to quality.

The Cultural Tourism line is therefore influenced heavily by the main reason for the visit, the cultural life of the Basque Country, and is therefore a selection of the cultural products (heritage, museums, gastronomy and cultural events) of the 6 tourist brands described. General proposals are made on the culture of the Basque Country and customized proposals for groups of culture- orientated tourists with more specific interests. PRODUCTS OF HIGH IMPORTANCE

The City breaks product line focuses on the offer of the major capitals of the Basque Country and is structured on the basis of what we call the “four Cs”of city tourism: Culture, Shopping, Food and Character (associated values) of the Bilbao, San Sebastian and Vitoria brands.

The Rural Tourism line is defined mainly by accommodation and carrying out relaxing or active activities in the rural natural area, which often represents a change from everyday city life to a different environment. The Basque Mountains and Valleys brand, by its own conception, is the main product, which is complemented Product categories adapted to specific niche motivations: with other rural accommodation options on the Basque Coast and Religious tourism (connected with the Camino de Santiago and in Rioja alavesa. It must be taken into account that tourists with the Ignatian Way), active nature tourism (MTB, hiking, surfing), an extremely focused and specialised level of activity, such as and ecotourism (birdwatching). Family tourism stands out as the MTB, surfing, etc. are not included in this line, but in the group of second most important segment in Euskadi with activities and niche markets, as the target population is much lower with highly experiences for children both in the cities and on the coast and/or specialised information Land promotion channels. inland: educational activities, surf activities, staying in tree houses, bread workshops, talo (Basque arepa) workshops, chocolate The Coast Tourism product line focuses on summer tourism, workshops, being a beekeeper or a shepherd for a day. proposing holidays on the Basque coast: from Bilbao to San Sebastian, more than 200 scenic kilometres to visit the most www.euskaditurismo.eus emblematic places in the Basque Country, and enjoy the classic sun and sea activities, as well as other complementary ones. Beaches, surf, estuaries, marshes, cliffs. Lighthouses. Villages with a seafaring soul, whalers and sailors, net menders and fishermen, rugged in character, with a brilliantly blue living sea. Given their proximity to this brand, visits to Bilbao and Basque Mountains and Valleys are also proposed.

The Club Surfing Euskadibrings together over 70 agents capable of creating a global and individualized product based on quality, experience, and professionalism: surf schools, surf camps, specialised accommodation, guides, receptions, shops… TOURISM EXPERIENCES

The Basque Country also offers a wide range of TOP tourism experiences which are appealing to the tourist. These activities with complementary elements that add value and make them unforgettable. TOP 10 Euskadi experiences, those which must not be missed on your visit are:

1.- A pinch of salt in the Salado Valley: The landscape of the Valle Salado de Añana is one of a kind given it architectural uniqueness and its three thousand years of history. This experience will allow you to learn the secrets of the Salt from Añana from different aspects: historical-cultural, natural, productive, therapeutic and, of course, culinary. Gourmet salt from the Salado Valley has attracted the most renowned Basque chefs, who have added it to a very unique menu that awaits you. Enjoy!

2.- Shepherd for a day: In one of the most impressive mountain backdrops of the Basque Country, the Urkiola Natural Park, and the Natura SL facilities can be found alongside the Atxarte cheese creamery, where Shepherd Patxi Solana invites us to share his daily chores.

3.- Cider and sea: The tradition of cider and the txotx! ritual have become a social phenomenon in the Basque Country, which attracts thousands of visitors. Cider houses have adapted their facilities to cater for large groups who enjoy this tradition together. There are however some farm house who continue to elaborate cider and offer a more personal experience to small groups.

4.-The Flysch Route. Geopark on the Basque Coast: Pure and simple nature, are the towering cliffs of , Deba and , enigmatic rocks when contemplated from the sea. The geological formation known as flysch is an open book where millions of years are written in stone. In every village and at every point, both by boat and on foot, discover the secret history of the Earth at the edge of the sea. 6.- The gripping tale of an ancient wine: Txakoli, the white wine par excellence from the Basque Country, acquiring a standard of excellence in the Azurmendi wine and gastronomy complex. Located in a beautiful corner of the province of Bizkaia, Larrabetzu, this space of architectural contrasts combines the best of the world in avant-garde cuisine with txakoli wine and culture. Led by Eneko Atxa, the renowned chef of Azurmendi the award winning Michelin 3-star Restaurant. Numerous options are available at this place and are open to you.

7.- : The Basque people have made their free time, in many cases, an extension of their work. Traditional games in the farming villages and rural sports are good examples of this. The wealth of games is impressive, the best known being, probably, pelota, lifting stones, cutting logs and sokatira (pulling the rope). Learn about the world of Basque rural sports first hand, and have a go at playing one of them accompanied by athletes preparing for national and international champions in the various sports. Choose the sport that most appeals, have fun and play. An experience that will not leave you indifferent.

8.- Navigating up the Urdaibai estuary: The one and only Urdaibai estuary. Its natural wealth, its scenery, historical heritage, traditions, etc., have earned it universal recognition and UNESCO has declared the Urdaibai estuary a Biosphere Reserve. This experience gives you the opportunity to get to know this 5.-Aroma and Landscapes of Rioja Alavesa: Where medieval beautiful enclave right from its heart; from its inland waters villages ressemble islands in a sea of endless vineyards, where aboard a comfortable boat. A unique way to enjoy the landscape wine and culture are synonymous; only there you can taste wines beyond a mere boat ride. And the experience is accompanied that will captivate your palate. Rioja Alavesa awaits. At each by a guide / story teller to envelop you in a world of legends and winery, the winemakers will show you the secrets of winemaking. knowledge. The trip includes docking time for a delicious local This is where the wine is born and grows, this is where they know aperitif, accompanied by a traditional session for best. you to enjoy. 9.- The Basque pelota and the sea: To enjoy and play the ball game in the beautiful hundred-year old court in Bermeo, a fishing village on the Basque Coast. The Basque ball game par excellence, was the “safety valve” for arrantzaleak (fishermen in Basque) during their leisure time.

10.- A cooking course at the gastronomic society of San Sebastián: The recognition of the relies heavily on the authenticity of the raw materials used to elaborate the different dishes that have made Basque cuisine world famous. Fresh, natural, seasonal and premium quality and quite often only found in very specific places. The La Bretxa market in Donostia/ San Sebastián is one of those essential places to buy fresh and seasonal products. This experience invites you to visit different places, talk to the growers and buy the best products to create a complete traditional Basque menu. A menu, in the company of friends or family, you will learn to elaborate it under the orders of a chef in a very special place in the Old Town of Donostia/San Sebastián; in a real Gastronomic Club. The mecca of San Sebastian cuisine open exclusively for you and yours. Pleasant, fun cooking and moreover, you get to enjoy the food later.

Bon appetite!

Further information on tourist experiences in the Basque Country at: www.euskaditurismo.eus and at: www.viajesporeuskadi.es CLASSIFICATION OF THE MAIN TOURIST RESOURCES

Euskadi TOP Resources

A resource is considered to be TOP when its potential value is so high that it is able to attract a wider public. The greater the potential value, the greater the ability to attract. The TOP resources make up the main tourism offer in the Basque Country, and their appeal capacity will enable them to act as interest driving the most international work of its designer, Alberto de Palacio a bridge and more than 200 steps, it is crowned by a hermitage forces for an “experienced” public to discover the Basque Country. and Elissague and the UNESCO highlighted the innovative use dedicated to St. John, whom the local fishermen render deep of lightweight, twisted steel cables. Located at the mouth of the devotion, and to which different rites and legends are also 1.- The Gernika Tree and the General Assembly House. The River Ibaizabal (or Bilbao River), it is a transporter bridge that associated. In these waters, once navigated by corsairs and headquarters of the highest institutional body in Bizkaia, the was conceived, designed and built by private initiative between pirates the important naval battles in our history have taken Gernika General Assembly House is alongside the mythical Tree, 1887 and 1893 to link Portugalete and Getxo. place. the symbol of all the and is the site where councillors of the dominion of Bizkaia have assembled since the Middle 4.-Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve: a haven nestled in the Bay of Ages. The Gernika Tree is the heart of the architecture of the , the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve (23,000 Ha) is located General Assemblies of Bizkaia. In the past, the most important in the townland in Bizkaia. From the cliffs and civil ceremonies were held under the shade of the tree and it is beaches to the forests and rivers of the interior, including the where the Lord of Bizkaia swore to respect the Basque marshes and river valleys, Urdaibai holds probably the greatest (set of rules of public and private law). A survivor of the Gernika landscape and ecological diversity in the Basque Country. bombing, this tree has become the symbol of the Basque People. The current tree was planted in 2004 as a result of the 5.-The estuary of is the centre of this exceptional death of the previous one, which dated back to 1860, at the hands enclave declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1984. The of the Armillaria mellea fungus, which in turn had replaced the 12 km of extensive sandbanks forming the estuary at its mouth, original “old tree” which was over 300 years old. Many shoots of where fresh and salt water mix, are the most important wetland this tree are found around the world in the different cities of the in Euskadi. In addition, the environment is of great international Basque Diaspora. interest as it is the resting and wintering place for many species 3.-The Hermitage of San Juan of Gaztelugatze: is one of those of rare migratory birds in the including 2.-The first World Heritage Site that UNESCO granted the Basque special places that once you have seen it, you know it will be herons, cormorants, terns, spoonbill and a large number of Country in 2006, is the transporter Bridge or Bizkaia Bridge, difficult to forget. Torn between the vastness of the Cantabrian waders, which are birds that feed on animals that live buried or between Portugalete and Getxo. This work, representative of Sea and the solemnity of the cliffs of the Basque Coast, halfburied in the mud and sand. iron architecture which arose from the Industrial Revolution Gaztelugatxe islet is surrounded by an atmosphere of mysticism and which is 120 years old, was the first construction of these and magic that permeates all who visit. Although from the 6.- Balenciaga Museum: The selection of workshops offered by characteristics in the world and served as a model to many mainland it is possible to contemplate its unparalleled beauty, the Balenciaga Museum, located in the beautiful town of Getaria similar bridges in Europe, Africa and America. It is undoubtedly the view from the sea is unmatched. Joined to the mainland by on the Basque Coast, shows the legacy of the most universal Basque fashion designer, defined by Coco Chanel as “the only 8.- Geopark of the Basque Coast: The Basque Coast Geopark is a village has enabled the wine capital of Laguardia-Rioja Alavesa one of us who is a true couturier “. small area wedged between the Cantabrian Sea and the Basque to provide a pedestrian town where it is a delight to walk. It has mountains, comprising the municipalities of Zumaia, Deba and two fortified churches, San Juan and Santa María de los Reyes, Mutriku. Coast Geopark is a small area wedged between the as well as numerous ancestral and palatial homes. Cantabrian Sea and the Basque mountains, comprising the municipalities of Zumaia, Deba and Mutriku. The real interest of 11.- Bilbao is proof that, as the film director, Stanley Kubrick, this place is in its 13 kilometres of cliffs of the Geopark whose said “no dream is ever just a dream”. One day, the city of Bilbao spectacular rock formation called flysch layers which, like a decided that it needed to reinvent itself and rise from its ashes, great encyclopaedia, depict over 60 million years of the history of and it was transformed into what it is today: a modern, cult and Earth. Geologists and visitors can walk along these cliffs or take stimulating city which competes with the leading European a boat tour and travel through time to discover, for example, the capitals in everything it puts its mind to. Bilbao is more than the thin black colour that highlights the impact of a large asteroid Guggenheim, an icon which it does not renounce and which put it and the great dinosaur extinction approximately 65 Million years on the tourist map worldwide. Today, Bilbao is quality of life and ago. culture, gastronomy and art, international quality shopping and accommodation, business and meetings, and an international airport into which airlines from all over the world operate. 7.- Donostia/San Sebastián is undoubtedly the tourist destination However, Bilbao is also friendly people, strolls along the river, with the longest history in the Basque Country. It was frequented fun and nightlife. In short, it is a city that is increasingly attractive by the European aristocracy during the “Belle Epoque”, which to visitors. the poet, Gabriel Celaya defined as an “open city and simply human. This city, which was always wanted without walls and 12.- The name of Bilbao is already inextricably linked to the which accepts all, and is beautiful for nothing”. For many, it is Guggenheim Museum. Now, 20 years after its opening, the one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its balanced building continues to be an unquestionable attraction and the combination of small mountains, mansions and sea… and city’s most famous icon. The boldness of Bilbao in becoming the La Concha Bay, around which the city lies, a cosmopolitan first city in Spain to have a museum sponsored by the Solomon city where the laid-back pace of living by the sea is savoured. R. Guggenheim Foundation, and the audacity of dreaming of a Its gastronomy and intense cultural life are another of the project by Frank O. Gehry, speak volumes of the strength and attractions that make Donostia/San Sebastian an essential place courage of the Basque people and their ability to transform the to visit for all travellers who enjoy fine dining and the cultural future of Bilbao. When the success of the museum is already a events of importance, including the International Film Festival. consolidated fact, its appeal capacity should also act as a call to 9.- Ignacianan Country (Loiola, Aranzazu, La Antigua): This show the potential tourist that the museum is no more than the cultural and historical route takes us into the heart of the Basque tip of the iceberg of the city of Bilbao’s vast tourist and cultural Country and allows us to travel to the XVI century to experience offer. firsthand the pilgrimage of San Ignacio de Loyola. A unique opportunity to discover Basque sacred art through its three 13.- Vitoria-Gasteiz: Basque capital, seat of government and the landmark buildings, whose architectural uniqueness is admired Basque Parliament, is a city that combines natural areas with worldwide, as well as to find villages full of history and heritage. a rich architectural heritage. Its people proudly boast of living in one of the most comfortable cities with the best services in 10.- Laguardia: Monumental site and wine capital, Laguardia is Europe. “The European Green Capital 2012” is a city to enjoy. synonymous with good wine and its culture is present in the It stands out in the European ranking of the highest number of vineyards and at the wineries and restaurants in the area.. It square meters per inhabitant. Moreover, its “medieval almond” is one of the compulsory stops of the famous wine route; most so named for its oval contour, is one of the most emblematic wineries are visited and explain step by step the development of historic centres in Euskadi. The Cathedral of Santa Maria, walls, their valued wines, plus offer tastings. This town is also widely palaces, coaching inns, etc. Novelists the like of Ken Follett are regarded for it monumental historical ensemble. Located on a captivated by the activity generated here. hill, its medieval layout remains intact. The walled nature of the 16.- Salado Valley- Añana salt flats: The landscape of the Valle Salado de Añana is one of a kind given it architectural uniqueness and its three thousand years of history. Here several types of high quality salt have been produced over centuries, using a system of terraced ponds and channels along a valley that has become one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Basque Country.

14.- The owners like to describe the facilities of the wineries of the heirs of the Marqués de Riscal like a “21st century chateau”. This Wine City consists of the former 19th century winery, the oldest in Rioja, and the new building designed by the Canadian architect, Frank O. Gehry, which houses a hotel, a winetherapy spa, an exclusive restaurant, as well as a conference and convention centre. Like the Guggenheim Museum, the building designed by Gehry is covered in titanium, although, in this case, the architect wanted to fill his work with the Marqués de Riscal colours: pink, like red wine, gold, like the mesh of the bottles of Riscal and silver, like the bottle capsule To get Gehry to accept, the proposal was presented accompanied by a wine from the year of his birth (1929), and he gladly accepted..

15.- Hondarribia: Hondarribia has historical treasures that give this town in the Basque Country a special charm. Its walled old town, its cobbled streets full of noble houses and unique buildings such as the Castle of Emperor Charles V, used today as a hotel, the picturesque village of La Marina with its colourful fishermen’s houses, restaurants and typical pintxos bars and terraces ... All these features make Hondarribia an ideal destination for a holiday. WHAT’S ON IN 2017… BILBAO BBK LIVE. The following are billed: Depeche Mode, BILBAO Justice, The 1975, Die Antwoord, Fleet Foxes, Phoenix, Two Door Cinema Club, Niña Coyote eta Chico Tornado, Dellafuente & Maka, Coque Malla, Sundara Karma, Cabbage, Royal Blood, Explosions in XX ANNIVERSARY OF THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM BILBAO the Sky, Brian Wilson, Los Punsetes, Joe Goddard, Aterciopelados, and Zazkel October 2017 will mark 20 years since the inauguration of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which was when Bilbao burst onto 6th, 7th, 8th July the international artistic scene and the beginning of the arrival of tourists to the city en masse. With this date a year away, the bilbaobbklive.com Museum has announced its preliminary programme of the special activities that will be staged over the forthcoming months. MENDI FILM FESTIVAL. An international festival of mountain and adventure cinema. December. mendifilmfestival.com TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS

Abstract Expressionism (3rd February – 4th June 2017) TRADITIONS

Bill Viola: A retrospective (30th June – 5th November 2017) Santo Tomás Market. A popular agricultural market that exhibits the best regional products at a festival that brings together David Hockney. Portraits (10th November 2017 – 25th February thousands of people throughout the day. A day for festivities and 2018) for shopping. It is held every year on 21st December. guggenheim-bilbao.eus The Big Week. For over a week the city becomes a meeting point for entertaining and attractive activities and trade fairs to suit all tastes. It is held from 19th to 27th August. EXHIBITIONS AT THE FINE ARTS MUSEUM

Renoir: intimacy (7th February – 15th May) museobilbao.com

ABAO OPERA

Its opera programme is outstanding abao.org / euskalduna.eus

BASQUE FEST. A festival of Basque culture, art, exhibitions, dance, street theatre, children’s activities, handicrafts, concerts, a collection and sale of Basque design, gastronomy, and sports such as beach-, rowing, and pelota. 13th-16th April 2017.

Basquefest.com TRADITIONS

DONOSTIA Santo Tomás Market. A popular agricultural market that exhibits the best regional products in a festival that brings together SAN SEBASTIÁN thousands of people throughout the day. A day for festivities and for shopping. It is held every year on 21st December.

Zinemaldia. 65th International Cinema Festival. Quality films, The Big Week. For over a week the city becomes a meeting point exhibitions.... the perfect excuse for sharing the limelight with for entertaining and attractive activities and trade fairs to suit all international film stars. 22th-30th September. tastes. It is held from 19th to 27th August. sansebastianfestival.com Tamborrada. San Sebastián Day. This is the city’s most important festival and begins at midnight every year on 19th January and continues throughout the day of the 20th. Over 100 tamborradas 52 Heineken Jazzaldia. Jazz Festival. One of the most important in (groups of drummers) take to the streets to celebrate the day. Europe. 20th-25th July. donostiakultura.com Jazzaldia.com

“La Concha Flag” rowing boat races. The final events of the most important races of the whole region. 3rd and 10th September. donostiakultura.com

Surf Film Festibal. Festival of Surf Film, Music, Art, and the Environment. June surfilmfestibal.com

52nd “Behobia-San Sebastián” walking race. 12th November. before with “tamborradas” that bring together the cooks and VITORIA representatives of the gastronomic associations of the province. It is traditional to eat scrambled eggs with perretxiko mushrooms and snails at this time of the year. San Prudencio’s Day also GASTEIZ includes a popular pilgrimage with gastronomic competitions, rural sports, and other activities.

International Jazz Festival: big stars and talent. 11th-15th July. vitoria-gasteiz.org/turismo jazzvitoria.com

EXPERIENCES Azkena Rock Festival. The following are billed: The Cult, John Fogerty, Cheap Trick, Inglorious, Crank County Daredevils, Union The Cathedral and the Historic City Centre Carbide Production, The Hellacopters, The Meteors, Loquillo, Tyger Pan Tang, Bloodlights, Pat Capocci, The Soulbreaker Company, Take a walk through history at the Catedral de Santa María, and Fetitxe. 23th-24th June. which has inspired writers from all over the world such as Ken Follet, Paulo Coelho, Mario Vargas Llosa, Arturo Pérez Reverte… Let yourself be charmed by a guided tour so as to discover the azkenarockfestival.com secrets of a building and a city. Its historic centre is one of the most beautiful of the north of the country with its medieval streets 15th edition of the Martín Fiz International Marathon: 14th May. and its almond shape. During the visit don’t miss the BIBAT, the Archaeological Museum together with the Fournier de Naipes Museum, which holds probably the best collection of playing cards maratonmartinfiz.com in the world.

FesTVal Television Festival: competitions, magazines, series, vitoria-gasteiz.org/turismo news programmes; entertainment for children, teenagers, and adults. 4th-10th September. The green ring festval.tv If you are a nature lover, take a bike ride on the green ring that surrounds the city until you reach the Parque de Salburua and the XXVIII Magialdia. International Magic Festival. 11th-17th Interpretation Centre of the wetlands of Salburua, Ataria, which September. houses an ecosystem of undeniable ecological value. In this park you can watch birds from the hides provided for the purpose and also observe several mammals such as red deer and a small TRADITIONS colony of European mink which are in danger of extinction. When Festival of the White Virgin (the Big Week). Thousands of people you visit it you will understand why Vitoria-Gasteiz was European flood the streets in a week full of activities, music, and religious Green Capital for 2012. ceremonies. 4th-9th August. vitoria-gasteiz.org/turismo vitoria-gasteiz.org/turismo In addition to the cities, the Basque Country has many activities San Prudencio Festival. “Tamborrada”. 27th and 28th April. The and landscapes to help you to enjoy nature. celebration of the patron saint of Álava, which begins the day HILLS AND VALLEYS The caves of Ekain, Altxerri and Santimamiñe, a world heritage Urkiola Pilgrimage: each year on 13th June, the Day of San HILLS AND site Antonio de Padua, thousands of people take part in the pilgrimage to the Santuario de Urkiola (Abadiño). As tradition has it, the participants must go seven times round the great rock known In July 2008 the UNESCO declared these caves together with VALLEYS popularly as the tximistarri, which is situated behind the sanctuary. 12 others of the Cantabrian Coast to be a World Heritage Site. In exchange the defender of lost causes guarantees that you will These cave painting sanctuaries are the most representative of find or keep your partner or whatever the pilgrim may request. Natural scenery that reflects the culture and the way of life, the Palaeolithic parietal art in the Cantabrian area. country house, traditions, pilgrimages, rural sports, heritage, Idiazabal Cheese Day: since 1998 a festival has been held in this the hills known as the “Montes Bocineros”, nature reserves, salt Although the Basque caves are closed to the public to ensure town to present the young cheeses of the new season. Although mines, coalmines, interpretation centres, eco-museums; these are the preservation of their art, that of Ekain has a replica near the several events are organised on the previous days, the official the most relevant from among endless spaces. original that allows visitors to enjoy the prehistoric sanctuary day devoted to this prized delicacy is the first Sunday in May. The without the original figures being damaged. These represent one of shepherds’ stalls open to the public first thing in the morning. All Bird watching: technically equipped bird observation centres. the best collections of cave paintings in Europe with animal figures those attending can sample the cheese and vote for their favourite. that were painted some 13,000 years ago during the Magdalenian birdingeuskadi.eus period. The cider season: in January each year the shout of txotx! announces the start of the cider season, which until April allows Mountain Bike Centres: peaceful routes of free access offering ekainberri.com you to enjoy the new natural cider harvest directly from the technical difficulties and various types of surface that run through kupelas (casks). What was formerly a ritual to taste the cider to spectacular landscapes. be chosen for bottling has nowadays become a true gastronomic TRADITIONS festival. btteuskadi.eus Gernika Fair. It is held on the last Monday of October and is the Although it is not exclusive to hills and valleys, most of its partners most important agricultural fair in the Basque Country. It is also a Hiking routes: The multiple proposals include the coastal and can be placed here. We are talking of the Basque Country Network highly festive event that brings together thousands of people each inland routes of the Pilgrims’ Route to Santiago or the Ignatian of Oeno-Gastronomic Museums. year. Way. The Basque hills and valleys are a green paradise with spectacular nature reserves, caves, sanctuaries, and legends. Santa Lucía Fair: The festival of Santa Lucía is held on 13th December and it is on this day when one of the most important Ignatian Way. This route is that of the journey of fairs in Gipuzkoa is organised in Zumarraga and . in the year 1522 from his home town of (45 km from San Sebastián) to the Catalan town of , where the so-called santalutzi.com “Cave of Saint Ignatius” remembers the founder of the . Like other long treks, the Ignatian Way gives you the Kidney bean fair in Tolosa: for several days Tolosa plays tribute to opportunity not only of a travel experience but also of one of one of its most characteristic products: the kidney bean. 18th-19th personal development and introspection. The full route is 675 km November. long and the section of the way through the Basque Country runs tolosakoazoka.com for 150 km. The Sanctuary of Loiola, the starting point for the journey, is a symbolic place for the Society of Jesus that was built Medieval markets in Artziniega, Balmaseda, and : where in the 17th and 18th centuries around the Casa Torre in which Iñigo once a year the traditional atmosphere of the markets of the López de Loyola was born in 1491. Middle Ages is reproduced, with exhibitors dressed in period costume. In Artziniega on 20th September. In Balmaseda and turismo.euskadi.eus Ordizia on 13th and 14th May. RIOJA ALAVESA RIOJA ALAVESA

A land of centenarian vineyards of outstanding wine production, with wine cellars that are architecturally spectacular and others that are traditional and family-run, an age-old heritage, dolmens…

The oenobus: Forget about the car and entrust yourself to the guides of this tourist bus that will allow you to visit in the best possible way two of the districts with the strongest grape and wine-growing tradition in the Basque Country: Rioja Alavesa in the province of Álava and Uribe in Bizkaia. Two districts and two completely different wines: the extraordinary Rioja Alavesa reds and the white wine of the Basque Country par excellence, the txakoli from the district of Uribe near Bilbao. These two districts and two options to choose from will doubtless help you enjoy an unforgettable day. turismo.euskadi.eus

The Rioja Alavesa Harvest Festival: it was initiated in 1994 in the small town of Laguardia and is held in different locations; this year it is celebrating its 23rd edition. It will be held in Yécora on 17th September. The objective of this event is to allow visitors to get to know the towns, their way of life, and above all their wine as the main product of the district’s rural development. fiestadelavendimiariojaalavesa.com THE BASQUE COAST Rowing championship events. The rivalries of the occupation of The Basque Coast Museum Network: this brings together 42 THE BASQUE fishing have now taken the form of this tough and spectacular museums, interpretation centres, and heritage centres with sport. These rowing races are held every weekend in July, August, different approaches but a common connection: the dissemination and September, filling with colour and animation the town holding of the coast’s cultural and natural heritage. It makes up the largest COAST the event. cultural tourist offer of the whole of the Basque coast, which can also be enjoyed at a discount thanks to the Network Card. www.ligasanmiguel.com A variety of fishing villages and seafront towns, family beaches In March the Basque Coast Museum Month is organised with and small coves, biotopes and geoparks, cliffs, marshes, bays, special activities, open-door days, free visits, etc. in over 30 and estuaries stud the coast. The sea invites you to be active (boat Gastronomic events centres. trips, surfing, diving, kayaking) but also has spaces for relaxation Among the many events held all year round we must highlight the (promenades, spas). Its way of life revolves around fishing and its losmuseosdelacostavasca.eus annual presentation of the production of txakoli of Getaria in the fishing heritage (markets, festivals). picturesque town that gives its name to the D.O. (17th January) Getxo Blues and Jazz Festivals: the fusion of big stars and and the Arrain Azoka of Bermeo, a seafaring festival with a emerging artists from the local and international scene. 13th-15th programme of gastronomic and cultural events related to the July. activity of fishing, fish, and preserves (May). getxo.net/es/aula de cultura Many products of the sea are celebrated at coastal towns with tasting sessions and other activities, for example the anchovy in Getaria and Ondarroa (May), octopus in Zumaia (16th September), Mundaka the Basque Music & Cook Festival. A unique festival held bream in Orio (July), bonito in Lekeitio (July), and shellfish in in a unique setting (the Urdaibai Reserve) that combines the best Zierbena (October). of our gastronomy with the most prestigious musical scene. July mundakafestival.eus Festivities and traditions

Carnival Sunday in Mundaka, with the animated passacaglia of Surfing Euskadi: the Basque Coast is a world surfing destination. Los Atorras and Las Lamias, the fishing festivities such as San It holds endless events and competitions all year round and has Pedro (29th July) and Goose Day (5th September) in Lekeitio, the a network of officially approved surfing schools that are ideal for Cármenes in Santurtzi (16th July), or the pilgrimage of the Day of your first contact with the activity. the Magdalena (22nd July in Bermeo-Elantxobe), the alardes of Irún (30th June) and Hondarribia (8th September), or a splendid surfingeuskadi.eus display of folklore and local tradition: the Euskal Jaia of Zarautz, which is held in September and brings the summer season to a Zarautz Pro QS 1000. International surfing championship. 17th- close. 23rd April. The Mutriku-Deba-Zumaia Flysch Route - Basque Coast Geopark, recently named a World Geopark by the UNESCO. The guided WSL PRO Junior Sopela: a world surfing circuit event. July. and interpretative tours of the geological-tourist route of the coastal towns of Mutriku, Deba, and Zumaia show the visitor the surfingeuskadi.eus alternation of hard and soft strata that form flysch, a natural Punta Galea Surf Challenge Getxo: one of the 6 big wave world millefeuille that makes this coastal section an object of study for surfing circuit events. 15th October 2017 - 28th February 2018. the geologist and of admiration for the layman. worldsurfleague.com geoparkea.com INFORMATION OF INTEREST ECONOMIC STRENGTH - A 45% increase in tourist overnight stays from 2006 to 2016, INFORMATION when a total of 6,913,016 stays was recorded in Basque Country Income per capita (2015 - Provisional figure): regulated tourist accommodation as a whole (hotels, rural lodging, campsites, and tourist apartments) OF INTEREST - 31,851 € A record for tourist movements in 2016 Source of information: Economic accounts, Eustat With the data of the Eustat and the National Institute of Statistics The income per capita or GDP per capita is a macroeconomic (Instituto Nacional de Estadística, INE), it is therefore confirmed Population on 1st January 2016: indicator of productivity and economic development that is used that 2016 was a record year for the arrival of tourists in the Basque to give an idea of the performance of the economic and social Country with a total of 3,332,913 visits and 6,913,016 overnight - Basque Country: 2,171,886 inhabitants conditions of a country, this being a consideration of the actual stays. growth and the labour force. It is generally also used as an - Vitoria-Gasteiz: 241,451 inhabitants indicator of social welfare. It is the ratio between the GDP and the Source of information: Survey of tourist establishments, Eustat, number of inhabitants of a country. To obtain it, divide the GDP of a Survey of occupation of tourist apartments, INE, and Survey of - Bilbao: 342,481 inhabitants country by its population. campsite occupation, INE - Donostia-San Sebastián: 180,179 inhabitants Distribution of the GDP by sectors of economic activity (2015): Satisfaction and repetition index: Source of information: Municipal Population Statistics on - Agriculture, stockbreeding, and fishing: 0.8% - 50% of the people who visit the Basque Country have the 01/01/2016, Eustat intention of returning (2014) - Construction: 6.2% Birth rate (2015): - 99% of the people who travel to the Basque Country would - Industry: 24% - 8.7 births per 1,000 inhabitants recommend it as a tourist destination to their family and friends (2014) - Services: 69.1% Source of information: Basque Country Birth Statistics, Eustat Source of information: Ibiltur Leisure 2014, the profile and - Tourism: 5.9% Percentage of the population with tertiary studies (30-34 age behaviour of tourists staying in regulated tourist accommodation in group) 2014: the Basque Country for leisure purposes. Basquetour Source of information: Economic accounts and Tourism Satellite Account, Eustat - 48.9% of the population aged 30 to 34 has studied a degree and a CONNECTIONS doctorate. This figure is above the EU28 average which is 37.9%. R+D expenses (% of the GDP) 2015: The Basque Country has an important infrastructure of Source of information: Population in Relation to Activity – PRA, - 1.84% communications and transport by road, rail, plane, and sea, with Eustat flexible connections to the remainder of the Spanish state and Source of information: Economic accounts, Eustat Europe. Its road network amounts to 4,264 km, of which some 500 Together with that of early school dropout rates, this indicator is km are motorways and dual carriageways. one of the eight established to follow up the five main objectives A QUALITY TOURIST DESTINATION of the 2020 European Strategy and the Education and Training The Basque Country has airports in the three provincial capitals: strategic framework (ET-2020). The aim is that by 2020 at least Evolution of visits and stays over the last 10 years: 40% of the population aged 30 to 34, men and women, have Bilbao International Airport: completed higher education. This is also one of the educational - A 42% increase in tourist visits from 2006 to 2016, in which objectives for the year 2020. · 13 km from the centre of Bilbao year a total of 3,332,913 visits was recorded in Basque Country regulated tourist accommodation as a whole (hotels, rural lodging, · 76 km from Vitoria-Gasteiz campsites, and tourist apartments) · 101 km from San Sebastián It has direct weekly flights to Amsterdam, Brussels, Düsseldorf, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Lisbon, London (Heathrow, Stansted, and Oslo Gatwick), Manchester, Milan, Munich, (Charles De Gaulle and Orly), , Zürich, Bristol, and Edinburgh.

Moreover, it has seasonal flights to Berlin, Stuttgart, Dublin, Venice, Casablanca, Oslo, Prague, Bucharest, and Geneva. From Edinburgh Vitoria there are summer flights to Milan.

Bilbao also has connecting flights to the major Spanish cities: Manchester Madrid, , Palma de Mallorca, Seville, Málaga, Almería, Dublin Berlin Alicante, Valencia, Menorca, Ibiza, Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, London Bristol Amsterdam Gran Canaria, Tenerife North, Tenerife South, Lanzarote, and Düsseldorf Brussels Fuerteventura. Frankfurt

Prague San Sebastián Airport: At only 20 minutes from the city centre, this Paris Stuttgart airport has connecting flights to the Spanish cities of Madrid and Munich Barcelona. Zürich Milan Geneva Venice Vitoria-Gasteiz Airport: It is 9 km from the city and its main Bilbao Bucharest Donostia / activity is currently that of goods transport, although it also offers A Coruña San Sebastián Santiago passenger flights to Tenerife South and Milan in summer. Vigo de Compostela Vitoria - Gasteiz Istanbul Barcelona Rome Moreover, the Basque Country has two important port transport Valencia Madrid Menorca infrastructures in Bilbao and Pasaia. Ibiza Lisbon Mallorca

Seville Alicante Atenas Jerez Almería Málaga Santorini

Casablanca

Lanzarote Tenerife North Tenerife South Fuerteventura

Gran Canaria www.basquecountrytourism.eus

i_Euskadi visit.Euskadi

MINISTRY OF TOURISM, TRADE AND CONSUMER