Discover the North Coast and the Picos de Europa

During the afternoon or the next morning (depending on your time of arrival), you will visit the Guggenheim Museum (entry included in the price) and you can visit the Old Town in Bilbao and enjoy its marvelous "pinchos," a small snack, typically eaten in bars, traditional in northern Spain and especially popular in the Basque country and Navarre.

Bilbao is the largest city in the Basque Country. Compared to elegant San Sebastian, Bilbao had always been considered the ugly sister.

Things changed, however, when American architect Frank Gehry chose Bilbao as the home of the Guggenheim Museum, which gives Bilbao a magnificent, modern and futuristic feel.

Besides the museum, there is another unmistakable thing about Bilbao, its food. Basque cuisine is the culinary mecca of Spain, with the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world.

⇒(Bilbao - Llanes, 180 km, 2h)

Accommodation: A charming hotel nestled in the heart of the picturesque fishing town of Llanes.

Llanes undoubtedly stands as one of the most atmospheric fishing towns along Spain's northern coast. The town's beaches and its old district, which winds around the harbor, significantly add to its allure and popularity. An extensive selection of excellent restaurants ensures that visitors can delve deep into the region's culinary delights.

On the journey from Bilbao in the Basque Country to Llanes in Asturias along the Cantabrian coast, a world of fascinating attractions awaits. This includes aristocratic coastal towns adorned with architectural gems, including works from the renowned Barcelona architect, Gaudi. Along the way, you'll also encounter some of Spain's most beautiful villages with cobbled streets, historic buildings, churches, and medieval residences. Prehistoric cave paintings, stalactite caves, and natural parks further enrich this experience. And if you're in the mood for a break, the route offers numerous inviting beaches. If time permits, an additional overnight stay en route is certainly worth considering.

For animal enthusiasts, the route also offers one of Europe's most remarkable zoological gardens, where animals live in vast areas surrounded by scenic landscapes, separated by rock formations. For those seeking a bit more thrill, options range from surfing to cave exploring and 'barrancos'.

In the Spain is More guidebook, you'll find in-depth information about all these captivating destinations and tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Distance: 600 Km

⇒(Llanes - Picos de Europa, 80 km, 1h,20m)

Accommodations: gem of a rustic hotel in Liébana Valley

The Liébana valley in the Picos de Europa mountain range provides a wide range of physical and natural riches to explore. In the hidden mountain villages, time seems to stand still, and you are transported to a bygone era. There are ample opportunities for hiking and other activities in the valley or in the awe-inspiring mountain peaks. 

The dramatic cable car in Fuente Dé elevates guests 750 vertical meters (2,460 vertical feet) to a panorama of sublime mountain peaks over 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) high. The small town of Potes is the region’s center, where delightful, cozy restaurants serve local specialties that can also be purchased in many quaint shops. The region’s foremost cultural monument is among the most important Catholic monasteries in the world, Santo Toribio de Liébana. 

Relax by the sound of the lazy river rippling by one of the valley’s best hotels and survey the surrounding mountains. The hotel is renowned for its charm, and its kitchen serves heavenly local cuisine.

⇒(Picos de Europa - San Sebastian, 290 km, 3h,30m)

Accommodations: Charming B&B in the old town. 

In the eastern part of the Basque Country we find Spain’s cosmopolitan and gastronomic center — San Sebastian — a wonderful town that successfully blends traditional and modern. This urban hub is one of the hottest culinary destinations in the world, and the Basque Country boasts a high concentration of Michelin Star restaurants. In fact, one main attraction of this stunning city is its exquisite cuisine and atmosphere. The extensive white sandy beaches and its urban texture make San Sebastian a popular holiday destination.

Breakfast and end of tour.