The charming coastal town of Zarautz

Zarautz has become, first and foremost, a popular summer holiday destination among many people and surfers. This charming coastal town is home to the longest beach in the Spanish Basque Country, and it is also famous for its waves that attract surfers from all over the world. It belongs to the incredible province of Gipuzkoa, full of beautiful coastal towns, where going on tours has turned into a popular way to get to know the province. If you are looking for a beach destination with very mild summer temperatures, a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than San Sebastian, and beautiful architecture within its old town, then Zarautz may be the perfect choice for you. Bilbao, the capital city of Basque County, is just an hour away too. 

Zarautz's main attraction

Zarautz's main attraction is, without a doubt, its 2.5 kilometres of fine sandy beach, the longest in the Spanish Basque Country and one of the longest in the Cantabrian Sea. The beach is popular not only with Basques, Spanish and French but also with visitors from all corners of the world: families with children, young and old couples and, of course, surfers.

Zarautz Beach

Playa de Zarautz, 20800, Gipuzkoa, España

The beach is also surrounded by a beautiful promenade. Along the path, there are several sculptures and swings for children. The promenade continues westwards beyond Zarautz until it reaches the neighbouring town of Getaria (about 4 km away). If you are keen on exploring and discovering different corners of the charming western coast of Gipuzkoa, then I recommend going on this fantastic and exclusive tour organised by locals who will show you some of the best views and sights. 

Zarautz's old town

If you need a break from the beach and the sun, you will find several interesting buildings in the area. The small old town of Zarautz is located at the western end of the beach. Strolling along the main street ("Kale Nagusia" in Basque), one building that stands out is the Luzea Tower. Built in the 15th century, it is a fine example of Basque defensive architecture. Unfortunately, it is not open to the public. 

At the western end of the main street stand two important buildings from the 15th century: the Gothic church of Santa María la Real and the Zarautz Tower. Both buildings form an archaeological complex containing the remains that show the history of Zarautz from the 5th century BC to the present day. The Zarautz Tower is also home to the Museum of Art and History and is the oldest building in the town.

Santa María la Real, Zarautz

Elizaurre Kalea, 1, 20800 Zarautz, Gipuzkoa, España

Another building worth mentioning is the Narros Palace, located at the western end of the town, on the beachfront. Built in 1536, it was used as a summer residence by Queen Isabella II of Spain. Nowadays, the Palacio de Narros is a private residence, and it is only possible to admire the building from the outside.

Accomodation in Zarautz

If you wish to spend more than a day and fancy nice and comfortable accommodation for a few nights, the amount of options that Zarautz offers its visitors is quite wide. I selected two great options for two different types of budgets and likes. The first one includes Hotel Berazadi Berri, located on a hill above Zarautz, overlooking the beach. It offers rooms with sea or mountain views. The hotel also has a restaurant serving traditional Basque cuisine and a terrace where guests can dine in the sun. Hotel Berazadi Berri is just a 5-minute drive from Zarautz town centre, where you can go surfing. San Sebastian is just a 15-minute drive away. The other option is more budget-friendly but just as good. Apartamentos Zarautz Centro is located 400 metres from Zarautz Beach. It provides its guests with everything they need and more to feel at home and have a great experience. It has also been rated very highly by its visitors. 

Do not miss a visit to the charming coastal village of Zarautz, home to the longest beach in the Spanish Basque Country, and it is also famous for its waves. Zarautz never disappoints as a summer holiday destination, and it is also popular among surfers. Enjoy Zarautz's mild summer temperatures, its natural surroundings and spectacular views, its neighbouring towns in the province of Gipuzkoa, and its beautiful architecture!