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This Lesser-known Spanish Destination Has Chic Hotels, Unique Local Wine, and One of the Country's Best Beaches

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  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, November 9th 2025 at 7:34 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Discover Spain’s Hidden Gem: The Urola Coast

The Urola Coast, a serene stretch of shoreline tucked between the bustling city of San Sebastián and the tranquil Basque villages, has long been a secret haven for those who crave a quieter alternative to Spain’s famed beaches. In a comprehensive Travel + Leisure travel guide, the Urola Coast is portrayed as a place where natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights converge, offering a uniquely authentic Basque experience that is both understated and unforgettable.

Where the Coast Begins

The Urola River, after carving a verdant valley through the hills of the Basque Country, gently empties into the Bay of Biscay. The town of Urola sits at the river’s mouth, where the water meets the dunes and the sea. From the town’s main square, visitors can stroll to the Urola beach (Playa de Urola), a modest stretch of fine, golden sand framed by tall dunes that rise up to 30 meters. The beach’s shallow, calm waters make it a safe spot for families, while its proximity to the town’s eateries provides convenient dining options.

Beaches, Dunes, and Nature

The coastline’s most celebrated feature is the dramatic dune system. The dunes, which stretch for nearly a kilometer, are a protected natural area and host a variety of bird species. Guided tours, available through the local tourism office, allow visitors to walk through the dune corridors while learning about the region’s unique ecosystems.

Beyond the dunes, the Urola Coast offers a handful of smaller coves and rocky outcrops. The “Punta de Urola” viewpoint, accessible by a short hiking trail, offers panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay and is especially stunning at sunset, when the sky turns molten gold. For those looking for a more secluded beach experience, the “Cala de las Vírgenes” on the eastern edge of the coast is a hidden gem that can only be reached by a 20‑minute trek along a coastal path.

Culture and Community

Despite its small size, Urola is steeped in Basque culture. The town’s annual “Feria de la Urola” takes place in late August, featuring traditional music, dance, and local artisans showcasing ceramics and textiles. The main parish church, dedicated to San Juan, dates back to the 18th century and houses a collection of religious art that reflects the region’s history.

The town’s narrow streets and cobblestone alleys are lined with small cafés, bakeries, and souvenir shops that carry locally produced cheeses, cured meats, and the world‑famous Idiazábal cheese. Visitors are encouraged to explore the “Mercado de Urola,” a weekly farmers’ market held on Saturdays, where local fishermen sell fresh catches that can be sampled at the nearby taverns.

Basque Gastronomy

Food is a centerpiece of the Urola experience. The coast’s culinary scene blends classic Basque flavors with the bounty of the sea. One must‑try dish is the “Txangurro a la plancha” (grilled sea spider), served in the town’s central restaurant, La Ría. For a more laid‑back setting, head to “Bar San Lorenzo,” where the menu features pintxos such as “Gilda” (olive, anchovy, and pickled pepper) and “Sopa de mariscos” (seafood soup) that are crafted from ingredients caught that very day.

Wine lovers will appreciate the region’s proximity to the Txakoli vineyards, where a light, slightly effervescent white wine pairs wonderfully with the local seafood. Many eateries offer daily “soup and pintxo” specials that provide a sampling of Basque staples at a modest price.

Outdoor Activities

The Urola Coast is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to beach activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, the surrounding hills offer a network of trails that cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. The “Ruta del Urola” is a 12‑kilometre trail that traces the river’s path from its source in the mountains to the sea, passing through lush pine forests and ancient stone bridges.

For those interested in water sports, kayaking can be arranged from the Urola beach. The calm, shallow waters provide an ideal setting for beginner paddlers, while more seasoned kayakers can explore the coast’s hidden coves and observe marine life up close. Surfing is less common in the Urola due to its gentle waves, but local surf schools offer lessons for those wanting to catch the occasional swell that rides along the Basque coast.

Where to Stay

Accommodation along the Urola Coast ranges from boutique hotels to family‑run hostels, ensuring there is an option for every budget. The “Hotel El Mirador” in Urola offers rooms with sea views and a rooftop terrace that is a popular spot for sunset cocktails. For a more rustic stay, “Casa de la Marina” is a charming guesthouse set in a renovated fishing house, offering a taste of Basque hospitality in a historic setting.

For travelers looking to stay in the nearby San Sebastián area, the “Hotel de la Concha” provides luxurious amenities and is a short bus ride away from the Urola Coast, making it an excellent base for day trips to both destinations.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• When to Go: The best months to visit the Urola Coast are late spring (May‑June) and early autumn (September‑October) when the weather is warm enough for beach activities, but the crowds are thinner than in peak summer.
• Getting There: Urola is accessible by train from San Sebastián and Bilbao, with frequent services that drop passengers in the town’s main station. For car‑owners, the nearby A-8 motorway offers a scenic drive along the coast.
• Currency: While the euro is widely accepted, smaller cafés and markets may prefer cash. Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and hotels.
• Language: Basque and Spanish are the official languages. English is commonly understood in tourist‑facing establishments, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases (“Hola,” “Gracias,” “Dónde está…”) enhances interactions with locals.

In Conclusion

The Urola Coast may be small in scale, but it packs a powerful punch of natural wonder, cultural depth, and culinary delight. Whether you’re a beachgoer seeking tranquility, a foodie on the hunt for authentic Basque flavors, or an adventure seeker ready to explore dunes and riverside trails, the Urola offers an experience that feels both intimate and expansive. The Travel + Leisure guide paints a vivid portrait of this coastal jewel, inviting travelers to step off the beaten path and discover the understated charm that only the Urola can provide. For a deeper dive into all the attractions, restaurants, and accommodations that make the Urola Coast a must‑visit destination, consult the full guide on Travel + Leisure’s website.