Discover Biscay, a captivating province in the Basque Country of Spain, where stunning landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant culinary scene converge. From the bustling city of Bilbao and its iconic modern art museum to the charming coastal towns and picturesque villages, Biscay offers a diverse array of travel experiences.
I. Travel Destinations in Biscay
Bilbao, the heart of Biscay, is a city that marries historical charm with modern sophistication. Its crown jewel, the Guggenheim Museum, is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture and art. Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, with its narrow streets and historic sites, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Mount Artxanda provides panoramic views of this vibrant metropolis, making Bilbao a city rich in both culture and scenic beauty.
1. Bilbao
Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Its transformation from an industrial hub to a cultural capital is epitomized by the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim’s shimmering titanium curves have become an icon of contemporary architecture. Inside, visitors can explore a vast array of modern and contemporary art, with works by artists such as Richard Serra, Jeff Koons, and Louise Bourgeois.
Beyond the Guggenheim, Bilbao’s historic Casco Viejo, or Old Town, offers a charming contrast. The narrow, winding streets are lined with traditional Basque architecture, including the Santiago Cathedral, a Gothic gem dating back to the 14th century. The Plaza Nueva, with its arcaded buildings, is a lively spot filled with pintxo bars, where visitors can sample an array of Basque tapas. The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, another cultural highlight, boasts a comprehensive collection of Spanish and European art, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present.
For a panoramic view of the city, a trip up Mount Artxanda is essential. Accessible by a funicular railway, the summit offers sweeping vistas of Bilbao and its surrounding landscape. This viewpoint is especially popular at sunset, providing a stunning backdrop to the city’s skyline.
2. Getxo
Just a short journey from Bilbao, Getxo is a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites. The Vizcaya Bridge, also known as Puente Colgante, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a marvel of 19th-century engineering. This transporter bridge, the oldest of its kind in the world, connects the towns of Getxo and Portugalete. Visitors can take a thrilling ride in the gondola or walk across the high-level walkway for breathtaking views of the Nervion River.
Getxo’s marina is a vibrant area filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The town’s beaches, Ereaga and Arrigunaga, are popular destinations for sunbathing and water sports, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
3. Bermeo
Bermeo, a charming fishing village, is famous for its vibrant port and the nearby San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. This iconic hermitage, perched atop a rocky islet and connected to the mainland by a narrow path of 241 steps, is one of the most picturesque spots in the Basque Country. The panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay from the top are truly breathtaking. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has gained worldwide fame as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones, where it served as Dragonstone.
Back in Bermeo, the town’s colorful fishing boats and seafood restaurants offer a glimpse into the traditional Basque way of life. The Matxitxako Lighthouse, located nearby, provides spectacular views of the rugged coastline and the open sea, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
4. Gernika
Gernika, or Guernica, holds a significant place in Basque and world history. The town was infamously bombed during the Spanish Civil War, an event immortalized in Pablo Picasso’s renowned painting “Guernica.” Today, the Gernika Peace Museum serves as a poignant reminder of the town’s tragic past and its enduring commitment to peace and reconciliation. The museum offers insightful exhibits on the history of Gernika and the broader themes of peace and human rights.
The Gernikako Arbola, or Tree of Gernika, stands as a symbol of traditional Basque freedom and democracy. Under this oak tree, Basque leaders have historically gathered to discuss matters of governance. The current tree is a descendant of the original, and it continues to be a powerful emblem of Basque identity.
The Santa Maria Church, with its impressive Gothic architecture, is another notable landmark in Gernika. Its beautiful interior and historical significance make it a must-visit for those exploring the town.
5. Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO-designated area that encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from coastal marshes to lush forests. This natural paradise is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Mundaka, a small village within the reserve, is world-famous for its exceptional surfing conditions. The Mundaka wave, a long and powerful left-hand break, attracts surfers from around the globe. Even for non-surfers, the village’s picturesque setting and charming streets make it a delightful destination.
Birdwatching is another popular activity in Urdaibai, with the marshes serving as an important sanctuary for migratory birds. The reserve offers numerous observation points and guided tours, providing ample opportunities to see a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat.
The beaches of Urdaibai, such as Laida and Laga, are pristine stretches of sand that offer excellent swimming, sunbathing, and water sports opportunities. Additionally, the area boasts numerous hiking trails that traverse its varied landscapes, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty.
6. Durango
Durango, a historic town with a rich cultural heritage, offers visitors a glimpse into the Basque Country’s medieval past. The Durango Old Town is characterized by its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming squares, and narrow streets. Strolling through the town, visitors can discover hidden gems like the Santa Maria de Uribarri Church, a Gothic masterpiece with a striking bell tower and beautiful interior.
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Durango is also known for the Durangoko Azoka, or Durango Fair, an annual cultural fair that celebrates Basque literature, music, and art. Held every December, the fair attracts artists, writers, and musicians from across the Basque Country, making it a vibrant and festive event.
7. Balmaseda
Balmaseda, nestled in the Encartaciones region, is a town steeped in history and tradition. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Puente Viejo, or Old Bridge, a medieval stone bridge that spans the Cadagua River. This picturesque bridge is a testament to Balmaseda’s historical significance as a strategic crossing point.
The Balmaseda Museum of History provides an in-depth look at the town’s past, with exhibits on traditional crafts, local customs, and historical events. One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of artifacts related to the town’s Easter Passion Play, a famous annual reenactment of the Passion of Christ. This event, held during Holy Week, attracts visitors from all over Spain and beyond, showcasing the town’s strong cultural and religious traditions.
II. Cuisine of Biscay
The culinary landscape of Biscay, a province in the Basque Country, is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions. The region’s cuisine is deeply rooted in its rich history and abundant natural resources, offering a diverse array of dishes that reflect the Basque people’s love for quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. Here, we delve into the essential elements of Biscayan cuisine, from pintxos and seafood to meats, cheeses, desserts, and beverages.
1. Pintxos (Basque Tapas)
Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, are small, flavorful bites typically enjoyed in bars and cafes. These are not just snacks but an integral part of Basque social culture, often enjoyed with friends and family over a glass of wine or cider.
Gilda: This classic pintxo combines olives, anchovies, and pickled peppers skewered together. Named after Rita Hayworth’s character in the 1946 film “Gilda,” this simple yet tangy bite is a perfect introduction to the world of pintxos.
Txangurro: A delicacy featuring spider crab meat, usually served atop a slice of bread with a rich sauce. This pintxo showcases the region’s exceptional seafood and the creativity of Basque chefs.
Bacalao a la Vizcaína: Salt cod in a rich red pepper and tomato sauce, often served as a pintxo. This dish is a staple in Biscay, highlighting the importance of cod in Basque cuisine.
Chistorra: A spicy Basque sausage, usually grilled and served on bread. Its robust flavor and slight smokiness make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
2. Seafood Dishes
The proximity of Biscay to the Bay of Biscay means that seafood is a cornerstone of the local diet. The region boasts some of the freshest and most delicious seafood dishes.
Marmitako: This traditional Basque tuna stew is made with potatoes, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Originally a fisherman’s dish, marmitako has become a beloved comfort food across the Basque Country.
Chipirones: Grilled baby squid, often served with a garlic and parsley sauce. The tender squid, lightly charred from the grill, is a testament to the Basque practice of letting quality ingredients shine.
Pulpo a la Gallega: Although this dish originates from Galicia, it is also popular in Biscay. The octopus is typically boiled, sliced, and seasoned with paprika, olive oil, and sea salt, served on a bed of potatoes.
3. Meat Dishes
While seafood is prominent, Biscay also offers a variety of delectable meat dishes, reflecting the region’s pastoral heritage.
Txuleta: This Basque-style rib-eye steak is renowned for its size and flavor. Grilled to perfection, often over an open flame, the txuleta is typically served rare and simply seasoned with salt to let the meat’s natural flavors shine.
Pollo a la Caserío: A hearty farmhouse-style chicken dish, slow-cooked with vegetables and wine. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that embodies the rustic charm of Basque home cooking.
Lechazo: Roast suckling lamb, a dish that is both tender and flavorful. The lamb is often slow-roasted with herbs, creating a succulent and aromatic feast.
4. Vegetarian and Side Dishes
Biscay’s cuisine also features a range of vegetarian dishes and sides that highlight the region’s fresh produce and culinary traditions.
Piperade: A Basque vegetable stew made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and sometimes eggs. This colorful and flavorful dish is a staple of Basque cuisine, often served as a side or a main course.
Porrusalda: A leek and potato soup that is both simple and comforting. Often enriched with cod, this dish is a perfect example of the Basque ability to elevate humble ingredients.
Tolosa Beans: A rich bean stew, typically made with black beans from Tolosa. This hearty dish is often accompanied by sausage or pork, offering a satisfying and warming meal.
5. Cheeses
Cheese is an important part of the Basque diet, with several varieties that are unique to the region.
Idiazabal: A smoky, nutty cheese made from sheep’s milk. Often aged for several months, Idiazabal has a distinct flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory accompaniments.
Roncal: A robust, tangy cheese from the Navarre region, just outside Biscay. Made from raw sheep’s milk, Roncal has a rich flavor that is cherished by cheese lovers.
Queso de Burgos: A fresh, mild cheese often used in salads or desserts. Its creamy texture and delicate flavor make it a versatile ingredient in Basque cuisine.
6. Desserts
The desserts of Biscay are a delightful end to any meal, offering sweet and often nutty flavors that reflect the region’s culinary heritage.
Goxua: A layered dessert with cream, sponge cake, and caramel. Goxua, which means “sweet” in Basque, is a popular treat that balances rich and light textures.
Pantxineta: A pastry filled with custard and topped with almonds. This traditional Basque dessert is flaky, creamy, and satisfyingly sweet.
Intxaursaltsa: A walnut cream dessert typically enjoyed during Christmas. Made with ground walnuts, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, this dessert is a comforting and festive treat.
In conclusion, the cuisine of Biscay is a rich and varied tapestry that reflects the region’s history, geography, and culture. From the vibrant pintxos that encourage social dining to the hearty meat and seafood dishes that showcase local ingredients, every meal in Biscay is a celebration of Basque culinary traditions.
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