Hi all, I'm planning for a scenic drive from San Sebastian to Bilbao with a few stops along the way for photos, especially at Gaztelugatxeko Doniene. Assuming we leave San Sebastian around mid morning, what would be an idea place to stop for lunch?
I haven't decided on the route yet, but I probably going to stay along the coast to Deba then follow the AP-8, passing the Bilbao airport north to Gaztelugatxeko Doniene. Based on Google Maps, it would take too long to follow the coast line the whole way. We hope to return back to Bilbao by late afternoon to walk around and then have a late dinner at Mina.
Would be very grateful for suggested stops for food or scenery along the way from SS to Bilbao. Thanks!
If I were making the drive from SS to the shrine of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (and I've made this drive), I'd take the coastal route through Zarautz, Getaria (charming and worth a detailed look), Zumaia and Deba. Then drop down on the A8 until Amorebieta, then take the BI 2235 north through the lush Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, past Gernika, Mundaka and the former whaling town of Bermeo on the coast. At Bermeo, take the road to Cape Matxitxako, then San Pelaio, then Gaztelugatxe. This coastal road from Bermeo to the shrine is particularly scenic as is all of the Urdaibai.
After the shrine visit, to return to Bilbao, I'd take the BI-631 south through the inland and pretty Uribe area past Mungia and past the airport.
Places to dine near Gaztelugatxe:
Right above the shrine at Restaurante Eneperi with beautiful views
http://eneperi.com/en/restaurant/
In the hills above Bermeo, the typical Basque grill house, Asador Almiketxu (nicely off the beaten tourist trail)
https://almiketxu.com
In Mundaka, Asador Portuondo right at the estuary
https://www.restauranteportuondo.com
In Forua, in the hills above Gernika, there's the lovely Baserri Maitea, but I think you won't be ready for lunch by then. It opens at 1:30.
http://www.baserrimaitea.com
And if you plan to make the climb at Gaztelugatxe, that will take considerable time, so I would press on closer to Gaztelugatxe.
The above will all offer you traditional Basque cuisine, including txuleta, in an attractive setting. We've dined at all of them and enjoyed them.
One caveat: if this is a Saturday, Baserri Maitea and Eneperi are very popular wedding venues.
Hope this helps.
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