The Most Beautiful Spots In Rural San Sebastian
Picturesque San Sebastian is nuzzled in the north of Spain and is often referred to as ‘The Green Spain’ or ‘Secret Spain,’ as it is complete with the crescent-shaped bay of the Concha. The city has it all – culture, some of the best beaches in Europe, amazing hikes and great food (be sure to try all the incredible pintxo bars). But that’s not all; rural San Sebastian has a hidden world waiting to be discovered of beautiful nature, incredible rock formations, crystal clear oceans… and it’s all just a day trip away.
Monte Igueldo
Hotel
Monte Igueldo
Hike up to the top of Monte Igueldo for the best views of San Sebastian at 184 meters above the sea, or, if you’re not in the physical exertion mood, hitch a ride up in the cable car, which takes you directly into the Igueldo amusement park complete with charming carousels and thrill-inducing roller coasters. Incredible San Sebastian scenery awaits you just beyond Playa de Ondarreta. There’s also an observatory with an outlook towers for more incredible panoramic views of the lovely town, Concha Bay, and Basque countryside. If you’re in the mood for a meal, grab a bite at the Hotel Mercure Monte Igueldo to enjoy the view from its outdoor terrace.
HSS00345, Itsasargi Pasealekua, 134, 20008 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Hike in Navarra
Other than the ‘Running of the Bulls’ at San Fermín in July, Navarra is known for its anonymity, beauty, and diversity. This beautiful crossroads, between France, the Basque Country and the rest of Spain, will have every other person saying ‘hello’ to you in a different language. Make sure to bring a picnic to the fairy-tale Urederra park, famous among locals but slightly hidden from outsiders. It contains enchanting pools, turquoise creeks, and stunning waterfalls folded into the wooded mountain sides.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
El Peinte del Viento
El Peinte del Viento
Famous metal sculptures by Eduardo Chillida lay embedded in rock just beyond the Ondarreta Beach in an area deemed ‘the wind comb’. Watch the waves crash over these incredible masterpieces and up through rock holes, as man-made art and nature collide in an incredible performance. For more history and info, look here.
Eduardo Chillida Pasealekua, 200008 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Isla de Santa Clara | © TpHolland / Flickr
Isla de Santa Clara
Isla de Santa Clara
Just off the coast of San Sebastian sits a small 30-meter wide island perfect for a quick getaway. It’s got a great balance of beautiful scenery and all the civilized creature comforts of the island’s many cafes, restaurants, picnic areas, post office, and lighthouse. Catch the ferry that runs every 30 minutes from June until September and bask on the lifeguard-supervised beach or explore the coast for clandestine natural pools.
Santa Clara Island, San Sebastian, Spain
Courtesy of Ilana HerzigHondarribia
Hondarribia
23 kilometers from San Sebastian (a quick drive or healthy four- to five-hour hike if you’re feeling ambitious), this charming fishing village can be reached through the 15th-century Puerta de Santa Maria, with winding picturesque streets dotted with historical landmarks. These landmarks include 10th-century Palacio del Rey Carlos V, the gothic church Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, houses with coat of arms facades, or Plaza de Armas, which overlooks the river and the lighthouse located north on Cabo Higuero. Also an incredible spot for food, the village has two Michelin-starred restaurants: Restaurante Alameda and Maison Eguiazabal ideal after a rewarding hike.
Photo Courtesy of Ilana HerzigMonte Urgull
Monte Urgull, located just past the old part of the city, is crowned by daunting 12th-century fortress – Castillo de la Mota – and dons a ‘Sacred Heart’ statue. Walk along the promenade of Paseo Nuevo to enjoy views of the shoreline that extends to Urumea River past the Puento Zurriola bridge. If you continue beyond Zurriola Beach you will come across the large Parque Ulna, an idyllic park perfect for a hike and or picnic.
Monasterio de San Ignacio de Loyola
Monasterio de San Ignacio de Loyola
Tucked into the Urola valley, the Monastery of San Ignacio de Loyola (now a Jesuit college) is only a 40-kilometer ride away from San Sebastian. Built between 1689 and 1888 and based on the design of Carlo Fontana, the Baroque church at the monastery boasts one of the most incredible and lavish domes in Spain at 65 meters and created by Joaquín de Churriguera, replete with spacious rooms, ornamental marble inlays, Baroque art, looming alters, and a statue of Saint Ignatius.
Lugar Barrio Loiola – Núcleo, 16, 20730 Loiola, Gipuzkoa, Spain, + 34 943 02 50 00
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
