Boasting one of the longest beaches in the Basque Country, Zarautz is between San Sebastian and Bilbao on the Bay of Biscay. It’s home to a 16th-century palace where Queen Isabella II once stayed and is renowned for having some of the most reliable surf in Spain.
Things to do in Zarautz
Spend your days relaxing on the golden sands of Zarautz Beach, which is backed by a promenade lined with casual cafes and restaurants. There are several breaks where surfers can test their skills, as well as surf shops offering lessons. Overlooking the water is the well-equipped Skatepark Zarautz and a coastal boardwalk leading to the mouth of the San Pelaio Erreka.
Occupying the oldest building in Zarautz is the Art and History Museum, where you’ll find archaeological finds, historic paintings and contemporary sculptures. Also not to miss is the Photomuseum, where antique instruments and images are on display. Get up close to vintage film cameras while learning about the transition from daguerreotypes to digital photography, then browse the changing photography exhibitions.
Zarautz’s most important religious landmark is the Parish Church of Santa Maria la Real, which was constructed in a Gothic style at the end of the 15th century. It is renowned for its magnificent altarpiece created by Andres and Juan de Araoz that features an image of Nuestra Señora de la Real. Together with the Zarautz Tower, the church forms part of the Archaeological Monument of Santa Maria La Real.
Getting around Zarautz
Zarautz is around 20 minutes’ drive from San Sebastian and 35 minutes from San Sebastian Airport. Bilbao Airport is an hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Trains connect to the Zarautz railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Zarautz can easily be explored on foot.