Hondarribia/Getaria/Loyola

Day Trips from San Sebastián

Hondarribia

Hondarribia

Hondarribia

An easy 23-kilometer drive from San Sebastian, Hondarribia is a charming little fishing village and seaside holiday resort. The town is entered through the 15th-century Puerta de Santa María. Wandering the picturesque narrow streets of the old town leads to the discovery of many historic landmarks, including houses with coats of arms on the facade.

An important sight is the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. In this Gothic church, the marriage of Louis XIV of France and the Infanta María Teresa of Spain was sanctified.

For beautiful coastal views, head to the Plaza de Armas, which overlooks the mouth of the river and the lighthouse on Cabo Higuer to the north. Hondarribia is also known for its gastronomy and boasts two Michelin-starred restaurants, the Restaurante Alameda and the Maison Eguiazabal.

For those who want to live like a king for a night, stay at the 10th- to 12th-century Palacio del Rey Carlos V, which has been converted to the luxurious Parador de Hondarribia hotel.  

Carretera del Jaizkibel

Carretera del Jaizkibel

Carretera del Jaizkibel

This beautiful scenic driving route begins 25 kilometers outside of San Sebastian and less than three kilometers from Hondarribia. The road travels up the bare sandstone ridge of Jaizkibel to a height of 584 meters, where the pilgrimage church of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe stands. The Hotel Provincial de Jaizkibel offers quiet, comfortable rooms and commanding views of the countryside.

Getaria

Getaria

Getaria

About 25 kilometers from San Sebastian, Getaria is a worthwhile excursion. On the way here, enjoy a lovely scenic drive. Beginning at Zarautz (22 kilometers away from San Sebastian), the magnificent road of the Cornisa Cantábrica (Cantabrian Corniche) extends along the rocky coastline.

The fishing port of Getaria lies on a picturesque promontory, with its harbor sheltered by the fortified island of San Antonio. The town's port is below the 13th-century Gothic Church of San Salvador, and the waterfront of the harbor is lined with enticing seafood restaurants.

Monasterio de San Ignacio de Loyola

Monasterio de San Ignacio de Loyola

Monasterio de San Ignacio de Loyola

Nestled in the Urola Valley about 40 kilometers from San Sebastian, the Monastery of San Ignacio de Loyola now houses a Jesuit college. The monastery was built between 1689 and 1888 based on the design of Carlo Fontana, a student of Bernini.

The splendid Baroque church at the monastery features an impressive 65-meter-high dome by Joaquín de Churriguera and is considered one of the finest in Spain. The lavish sanctuary dazzles visitors with its overwhelming spaciousness and decorative marble inlays. A masterpiece of Baroque art, the high altar displays a statue of Saint Ignatius.


 (thanks to: www.planetware.com)


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