Bilbao: Txakoli, Gaztelugatxe, & Urdaibai With Wine Tasting

Bilbao’s Basque Country is a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Discover the picturesque fishing village of Mundaka, explore the UNESCO-protected Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, and ascend the iconic staircase to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. But the true highlight of this day trip is the guided tour and tasting at a renowned Txakoli winery, where you’ll explore the region’s unique terroir and traditional winemaking methods. With so much to uncover, it’s clear this journey promises an unforgettable immersion into the heart of the Basque Country.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Wine Tours In Bilbao.

Key Points

• This 6-hour day trip from Bilbao offers a comprehensive exploration of the Basque region’s natural and cultural highlights, including Mundaka, Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
• The guided walking tour in Mundaka immerses visitors in the picturesque charm of this fishing village, renowned for its maritime heritage and stunning natural surroundings.
• The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, designated by UNESCO, showcases the region’s exceptional biodiversity and cultural heritage, with opportunities to spot diverse bird species.
• The iconic rocky islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, connected to the mainland by a winding staircase, offers breathtaking views of the Basque coastline.
• The tour includes a guided visit and tasting at a renowned Basque winery, highlighting the production of Txakoli wine and the unique terroir that gives it its distinct flavor.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Bilbao provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural and cultural highlights, with a duration of 6 hours and the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Visitors will embark on a guided walking tour of the picturesque town of Mundaka, seeing the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve‘s stunning landscapes.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where travelers can admire the breathtaking viewpoint.

Lastly, the tour offers a guided tour and Txakoli wine tasting at a local winery, allowing participants to savor the region’s renowned wines.

With included entry tickets, transportation, and expert-led tours, this comprehensive day trip promises an unforgettable experience.

Mundaka: Guided Walking Tour

The guided walking tour of Mundaka immerses visitors in the picturesque charm of this quaint coastal town, known for its rich maritime heritage and stunning natural surroundings.

Guests will stroll along the charming streets, admiring the traditional Basque architecture and the lively fishing harbor. The tour guide will share insights into Mundaka’s history, from its origins as a fishing village to its evolution as a popular destination for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Along the way, visitors will have the opportunity to visit the 12th-century church and the iconic footbridge, which offers breathtaking views of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the authentic Basque culture and the natural beauty that makes Mundaka a true gem of the Basque Country.

Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

After the guided walking tour of Mundaka, the tour proceeds to the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a stunning natural area designated by UNESCO for its exceptional biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The reserve is home to a variety of ecosystems, including salt marshes, sand dunes, and oak forests.

Visitors can expect to see:

1. The Urdaibai River, a meandering waterway that flows into the Cantabrian Sea.
2. Numerous bird species, such as the Eurasian spoonbill and the little egret, which can be spotted in the wetlands.
3. Traditional fishing villages that offer a glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage.
4. Panoramic viewpoints that provide sweeping vistas of the Basque coastline.

The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a true natural wonder, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Basque Country.

San Juan De Gaztelugatxe

Next, the tour takes visitors to the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic rocky islet connected to the mainland by a winding staircase of 241 steps.

This striking natural formation, situated along the rugged Basque coastline, has been the setting for numerous television shows and films, including the popular fantasy series Game of Thrones.

Visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the azure waters and surrounding cliffs as they ascend the stairs. At the top, they’ll find a 10th-century hermitage, where they can ring the bell three times to make a wish.

This unique and picturesque site is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Basque region.

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Winery: Guided Tour and Tasting

From the dramatic coastal scenery of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the tour now shifts its focus to exploring the renowned Basque wine region.

Visitors are led on a guided tour of a local winery, where they’ll explore the intricate process of producing the region’s signature Txakoli wine.

The tour highlights:

1. The unique terroir and microclimate that give Txakoli its distinct flavor profile.
2. The traditional winemaking methods, including the use of indigenous grape varieties.
3. The opportunity to sample various Txakoli vintages, noting their subtle differences in taste and aroma.
4. Insights from the winery’s expert staff on the history and culture surrounding this beloved Basque libation.

The winery visit provides a captivating contrast to the natural wonders experienced earlier in the day.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package provides entry tickets to the Ekoetxea Environmental Centre and the local winery, allowing participants to fully enjoy the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

The tour includes a guided wine tasting, where visitors can sample the renowned Txakoli wines and learn about their unique terroir and production methods from the winery’s expert staff.

The tour also includes transportation, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience, as well as guided tours at Mundaka and the viewpoint of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic landscapes and outdoor activities during the tour.

Starting Location and Transportation

The tour begins at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, where you will board the bus or coach that will transport them throughout the day’s activities.

This comfortable coach will serve as the primary mode of transportation, whisking travelers between the various destinations on the itinerary.

The tour includes:

1. A guided walking tour of the charming town of Mundaka.
2. A visit to the breathtaking Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
3. A stop at the famous San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where participants can admire the stunning viewpoint.
4. A guided tour and txakoli wine tasting at a local winery.

Throughout the journey, the coach will ensure a seamless and efficient experience, allowing participants to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the beauty of the Basque region.

Important Information for Guests

Comfortable shoes are recommended for this tour, as you will be walking through various scenic locations throughout the day.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should be prepared for potential inclement weather.

While the duration of the tour is 6 hours, it’s important to note that the itinerary covers a lot of ground, including a guided walking tour in Mundaka, a visit to the viewpoint at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, and a guided tour and wine tasting at a local winery.

Guests should plan accordingly and bring any necessary items, such as sunscreen, hats, or light layers, to ensure their comfort and enjoyment throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

On this tour, participants are not permitted to bring their own food and drinks. The tour provides a guided winery visit and Txakoli wine tasting as part of the itinerary. Outside food and beverages are not allowed during the tour.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes several restroom breaks throughout the day at the various stops along the itinerary, such as Mundaka, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, and the winery, allowing participants to use the facilities as needed.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves a guided walking tour in Mundaka and a visit to the viewpoint of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which has steep stairs. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration can be extended, but this would need to be arranged directly with the tour operator. They may be able to accommodate requests for a longer tour, subject to availability and additional fees.

What Is the Dress Code for the Winery Visit?

There is no formal dress code for the winery visit. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for walking.

Recap

This day trip from Bilbao offers a comprehensive exploration of the Basque Country’s natural and cultural gems.

Visitors will discover the picturesque fishing village of Mundaka, enjoy the UNESCO-protected Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, and ascend the iconic staircase to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

The experience concludes with a guided tour and tasting at a renowned Txakoli winery, providing insights into the region’s unique terroir and traditional winemaking methods.

You can check if your dates are available here: