Lekeitio to Bilbao

Overview

1. Day

   1
   Arrival Day

   1. LekeitioLekeitio

   Explore the charm of Lekeitio, a picturesque town in the Basque Country renowned for its beauty. Wander through its enchanting harbour, visit the historic church, admire the elegant mansions, and savour the seaside ambience at its lively bars. Extend your experience by staying overnight in the

2. Day

   2
   Walk Lekeitio - Choice of Walks

   9.3 mi · 15 km

   1. Walk Lekeitio - Choice of WalksLekeitio to Aulesti (9.3 miles) along River Lea rtn transfer by bus OR climb Illuntzar peak (726 m uphill and 8.7 miles long)
   2. LekeitioLekeitio

   For today's adventure, you have two attractive options: Embark on a 15-km stroll along the scenic River Lea to Aulestia or opt for a brief bus ride to ascend Illuntzar peak (726 meters uphill, covering 14 km) and revel in the breathtaking 360º panoramic views. At the end of the day you return to Lekeitio via the convenient and efficient bus service (your own arrangement. Rest for the a further night in the charming town of Lekeitio.

3. Day

   3
   Lekeitio to Ea

   8.5 mi · 13.7 km

   1. Lekeitio to Ea
   2. EaEa

   Your journey starts with an ascent of Otoio, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of cliffs and secluded beaches. Descend to explore a couple of tranquil coves, then follow the coastal path to reach the enchanting small town of Ea, where you will be spending the night.

4. Day

   4
   Ea to Mundaka

   10.9 mi · 17.5 km

   1. Ea to MundakaOption to reduce mileage to 8.4 mls with a morning transfer by bus or local taxi (paid locally). In June and September you can take a boat across estuary from Laida Beach to Mundaka. OR taxi transfer from Laida to Mundaka
   2. transfer
   3. MundakaMundaka

   Embark on a coastal journey, ascending to Natxitua then a brief rest before reaching Elantxobe , a town that was literally built into the cliffs. For a challenging experience, hike to Ogoño Cliff with panoramic views. Alternatively your can skip the first 8 km with a local bus or taxi (paid locally). Head to Laga Beach and ascend to Akorda to reach the San Pedro de Atxarre hermitage for magnificent Basque Country vistas. Descend to Laida Beach and take off your shoes to enjoy a walk in the sand and savour a memorable moment at Atxerre bar with coffee, beer, or tapas. A taxi will take you from the beach to Mundaka (or to the interesting town of Gernika if you prefer, then take the train to Mundaka (your own arrangement)). In June and September, you can even take a ferry ride across the estuary. Overnight stay in Mundaka.

5. Day

   5
   Mundaka to Bakio (via Bermeo and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe hermitage)

   10.9 mi · 17.5 km

   1. Mundaka to Bakio (via Bermeo and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe hermitage)Option to reduce walk to 8.4 mls by taking the train from Mundaka to Bermeo (own arrangement/cost).
   2. BakioBakio

   This morning you start with a walk to Bermeo, a vibrant and captivating fishing town (or catch a train to shorten the walking distance by 4km today). From here you make your way to the renowned San Juan de Gaztelugatxe hermitage, an iconic Basque landmark. Continue your journey to Bakio along a quiet lane with picturesque views before immerseing yourself in the surfing ambience of this coastal town. Overnight stay in Bakio.

6. Day

   6
   Bakio to Plencia

   14.3 mi · 23 km

   1. Bakio to PlenciaOption to reduce walk to 7.5 mls with morning transfer to Armintza (recommended unless you prefer a challenging day which includes.climbing up to Jata with amazing views).
   2. PlenciaPlencia

   There are two options for today. Stronger and prepared walkers may wish to embrace the full challenge, by ascending Jata—a hill offering breathtaking views. For those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, we would suggest the less strenuous option today where you can be transported along with your luggage as far as the quaint harbour of Armintza and then enjoy the remaining scenic 12-km coastal walk to Plencia. This charming town boasts a fantastic beach, an estuary, and a captivating Gothic-era town centre.

7. Day

   7
   Plencia to Bilbao

   13.7 mi · 22 km

   1. Plencia to BilbaoVariable lengths of walk stage (11.2, 9.3 or 6.8 mls) by taking a bus at the start and finishing in different locations along the route.
   2. BilbaoBilbao

   Walk along the cliffs, revealing panoramic coast views and distant Cantabria. After Punta Galea cape, the Bay of Bilbao suddenly emerges! Enjoy this scenic finale and head to Algorta's old fishing harbour with its vibrant bars. You can extend your walk along the promenade for an hour to the Bay's end, to admire the monumental Bizkaya Bridge (a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being one of the most outstanding constructions of the European Industrial Revolution and of the iron architecture) which was completed in 1893.Alternatively, take the metro from Algorta to visit the bridge, before heading to Bilbao's town centre. The stage length is flexible today: you can walk the full distance, you can take a bus at the start and finish your walk at various points.

8. Day

   8
   Day 8

   Depart from Bilbao or extend your stay for an extra night to fully appreciate the charm of this captivating city!