Bilbao: San Juan De Gaztelugatxe and Txakoli Wine Day Trip

Bilbao’s San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and Txakoli Wine Day Trip is a tantalizing adventure that whisks visitors on a 7-hour journey to uncover the region’s captivating landmarks and renowned wine. This personalized tour not only offers a guided climb up the iconic 241 steps of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe but also unveils the secrets of the Urdaibai estuary and the distinct flavors of Txakoli white wine. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a wine enthusiast, this day trip promises to immerse you in the rich cultural tapestry of northern Spain. But what truly awaits you on this enchanting excursion?

Key Points

• A 7-hour guided tour that includes a climb to the top of the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and a visit to a local winery for Txakoli wine tasting.
• Pickup from accommodations in Bilbao and a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 7 participants.
• Opportunity to discover the Urdaibai estuary and make a wish at the top of the bell while enjoying coastal views.
• Guided tour available in both Spanish and English, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the tour’s highlights.
• Tour pricing starts from €5,657 per person and includes all the inclusions mentioned in the background.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

This tour is likely to sell out quickly due to its popular itinerary, which lasts for 7 hours and is led by live guides in both Spanish and English.

Pickup from accommodations in Bilbao is available, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Highlights of the tour include climbing the 241 steps to the top of the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, visiting a local winery for a tasting of three wines paired with local appetizers, and discovering the Urdaibai estuary.

Participants will also have the opportunity to try the region’s famous Txakoli white wine and make a wish at the top of the bell while enjoying stunning coastal views.

Highlights

The tour offers a range of highlights, allowing visitors to climb the 241 steps to the top of the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where they can make a wish at the bell and enjoy stunning coastal views.

Participants will also visit a local winery to sample three wines paired with local appetizers, as well as discover the Urdaibai estuary and try the region’s signature Txakoli white wine.

This small-group tour, limited to 7 participants, provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of Bilbao’s natural and cultural attractions, led by a knowledgeable live guide in both Spanish and English.

The combination of physical activity, wine tasting, and scenic exploration makes this tour a must-do for visitors to the Basque country.

Inclusions

The tour includes a private guide, transfer, full visit to Gaztelugatxe, lunch, winery visit, and wine tasting. This allows you to fully learn about the local culture and traditions.

Experiencing the stunning coastal views from the top of the 241 steps at Gaztelugatxe, where you can make a wish at the bell.

Indulging in a tasting of the local Txakoli white wine, which is a unique and refreshing experience.

Discovering the flavors of the region through a winery visit and sampling three wines paired with local appetizers.

These inclusions ensure a comprehensive and memorable day trip from Bilbao.

Pricing

With the inclusions covering a range of immersive experiences, the pricing for this tour starts from €5,657 per person.

Offering pickup from the Guggenheim Museum, the tour provides a convenient and comprehensive day trip exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Bilbao.

Guests can look forward to a guided climb up the 241 steps of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a visit to a local winery for wine tastings, and the opportunity to discover the Urdaibai estuary.

The tour also includes a tasty lunch and the chance to try the region’s signature Txakoli white wine.

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Meeting Point

At the Guggenheim Museum, modern vans await to provide pickup for participants joining this immersive day trip. The convenient meeting point ensures a seamless start to the adventure, allowing everyone to come together before embarking on the exploration of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the local wine country.

The pickup service offers several advantages:

1. Hassle-free transportation, eliminating the need for participants to navigate unfamiliar roads on their own.

2. An opportunity to meet fellow travelers and bond over the shared excitement of the day’s activities.

3. A chance to admire the iconic Guggenheim Museum one last time before diving into the stunning natural landscapes and cultural experiences that lie ahead.

The Hike to San Juan De Gaztelugatxe

Once the group has gathered at the Guggenheim Museum, they’ll board the modern vans and make their way to the starting point of the hike up to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

The climb to the top of the island isn’t easy, as it involves ascending 241 steps. However, the stunning coastal views and the opportunity to ring the bell at the top make the effort well worth it.

Along the way, the guide will share insights about the history and significance of this iconic Basque landmark.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the hike can be challenging, especially in warm weather.

Exploring the Urdaibai Estuary

After exploring the rugged coastal landscapes of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the group then ventures into the tranquil Urdaibai estuary, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve renowned for its diverse array of flora and fauna.

Gliding silently along the meandering waterways, the tour guides point out the region’s unique ecology, including:

• Flocks of migratory birds soaring overhead, their calls echoing across the serene waters.
• Lush, verdant marshlands teeming with delicate wildflowers and rare plant species.
• The chance to spot elusive river otters and other shy, river-dwelling creatures in their natural habitats.

The Urdaibai estuary offers a peaceful respite, a chance to appreciate the natural wonders that thrive in this protected coastal environment.

Winery Visit and Wine Tasting

Following the exploration of the Urdaibai estuary, the tour group then visits a local winery to sample the region’s renowned Txakoli white wine.

At the winery, the guide provides an overview of the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Txakoli. Guests have the opportunity to taste three different Txakoli wines, each paired with local appetizers to enhance the flavors.

The winery visit allows participants to learn about the rich wine heritage of the Basque Country and appreciate the nuances of this crisp, lightly sparkling white wine. This portion of the tour offers a delightful chance to savor the local culinary traditions and take in the region’s vibrant wine culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

The tour may not be suitable for people with physical disabilities, as it involves climbing 241 steps to the top of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. The guide can provide more details on accessibility.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour, but the tour includes lunch and wine tasting at a local winery. It’s best to check with the tour provider about any restrictions or recommendations regarding outside food and drinks.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration beyond 7 hours. The standard itinerary is fixed, but guests can inquire about customized tours or add-ons if they’d like to extend their experience.

Can I Purchase Additional Wine Bottles at the Winery?

Yes, visitors can typically purchase additional bottles of wine at the winery during the tour. The tour includes a wine tasting, but participants are welcome to buy extra bottles to take home and enjoy.

Is There a Way to Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can likely be customized to meet individual preferences. Customers should contact the tour operator to discuss any special requests or modifications to the standard itinerary and inclusions.

Recap

This day trip offers a well-rounded experience, exploring the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, tasting the renowned Txakoli wine, and discovering the Urdaibai estuary.

With a guided climb, winery visit, and personalized attention, it’s an opportunity to take in the natural and cultural highlights of the Bilbao region.

The tour’s convenient pickup and small group size ensure a comfortable and enriching adventure for visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here: