One of Basque Country’s most important fishing ports, Lekeitio overlooks the North Atlantic Ocean in north-east Spain. It is famously the birthplace of Resurreccion Maria de Azkue, a priest who played an important role in preserving the Basque language. Lekeito comes to life during the summer months when its beaches attract holidaymakers from near and far.
Things to do in Lekeitio
One of Lekeitio’s most important architectural landmarks is the Church of Saint Mary, a Gothic basilica dating back to the 15th century. It houses a magnificent polychrome altarpiece and a Cavalle-Coll-style organ built in a Neo-Gothic style. During the summer months, the Church of Saint Mary hosts concerts as part of the Itxas Soinua International Festival.
For a day at the beach, head to Playa de Isuntza, which lies where the Rio Lea meets the Cantabrian Sea. Visible off the coast is Isla de San Nicolas, from where you can enjoy magnificent views back toward the town. At low tide, you can walk to Isla de San Nicolas from Playa de Karraspio, a large expanse of sand that lies directly across the Rio Lea from Lekeitio.
Dominating the coastline north-west of Lekeitio is the Faro de Santa Catalina, a working lighthouse with a museum that details the maritime history of the Basque Country. With the help of an audio guide and a simulator, you can learn about the challenges faced by local fishermen and experience what it is like to be in a boat during rough weather.
Getting around Lekeitio
Lekeitio is around an hour’s drive from Bilbao and Bilbao Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Buses connect to Lekeitio and the town is compact enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the surrounding area.