Following the Footsteps of "Game of Thrones" and the Ancient Basques: A Road Trip through Northern Spain

You begin your journey through the Basque Country in the beautiful city of San Sebastián Donostia-San Sebastian, famous for its picturesque La Concha Bay.

You’ll arrive in the city in the morning. Start your day by taking a ferry to Santa Clara Island, located in the middle of the bay. Ferries run every 30 minutes during the summer. On the island, you can walk up to the lighthouse, swim in one of the natural pools, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the city.

Next, take a stroll along the Beach of La Concha, ride the funicular up to Mount Igueldo Viewpoint for a panoramic view of the city and bay, and visit the Old Town, known for its bars serving pintxos — traditional Basque snacks. After lunch at one of San Sebastián’s many restaurants, you’ll pick up your camper van.

Then, you’ll head to Zarautz, a charming town home to the longest beach in the Spanish Basque Country.

Today you’ll continue your journey through the Basque Country and explore charming coastal towns. In the morning, if you didn’t have time to visit Zarautz the day before, you can take a walk along Zarautz Beach — the longest beach in the region — and maybe even try surfing.

Next, you’ll head to Getaria, a picturesque fishing town known for its seafood restaurants and local white wine, txakoli. Stroll through its narrow streets and climb the hill to the Church of San Salvador, where you’ll find beautiful views of the town and coastline.

After lunch at one of Getaria’s restaurants, you’ll continue on to Zumaia, best known for Itzurun Beach and its unique rock formations, called flysch. Walk along the beach, take impressive photos, and if the tide is low, you might even spot locals hunting for octopus.

In the evening, head up to the San Telmo Chapel for a panoramic sunset view.

Today you’ll travel along the coast of the Bay of Biscay, visiting the famous Gaztelugatxe Island, which gained even more popularity after appearing in Game of Thrones, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the traditional Basque town of Lekeitio. In the evening, you’ll arrive in Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, where you’ll spend the night.

In the morning, after leaving the campsite, you’ll head toward Lekeitio. In this charming town, you can walk to Isla de San Nicolás during low tide, crossing the sandy causeway, and visit the Gothic Church of the Assumption of Mary, known for its 15-meter gilded altarpiece. Like many coastal towns in Spain, Lekeitio observes the tradition of siesta, so keep in mind that many places may be closed between 2:00 and 5:00 PM.

After visiting Lekeitio, you’ll continue on to Gaztelugatxe. The trail to the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe chapel, perched on top of the island, consists of 237 steps and takes about an hour. From the top, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the Bay of Biscay and the rugged coastline. Please note that during peak season, advance booking may be required to visit the island.
In the evening, you’ll arrive in Bilbao, check into your campsite, and relax after a full day of exploring.

Today you'll get to know Bilbao — the largest city in the Basque Country and the capital of the Biscay province. Once an industrial hub, Bilbao has transformed into a modern city known for its architecture, culture, and gastronomy.

We recommend starting your visit with the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. More than just a museum, it has become a symbol of modern Bilbao. The building itself, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture.

After the museum, take a stroll through Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park — a green oasis in the heart of the city. You can relax in the shade of the trees, enjoy the fountains and the pond with ducks and swans. If you're traveling with children, they'll love the playground in the park.

Also worth visiting is the Zubizuri Bridge, also known as the Calatrava Bridge, named after its architect Santiago Calatrava. This futuristic pedestrian bridge, shaped like a curved sail, connects the two banks of the Nervión River.
In the evening, take a walk through Bilbao’s Old Town (Casco Viejo), where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants serving traditional Basque cuisine.

Today you’ll leave Bilbao and head toward Santander. Along the way, you’ll make two stops. The first is in Portugalete, a suburb of Bilbao and home to the Bizkaia Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This transporter bridge, built in the late 19th century, connects the two sides of the Nervión River. Its gondola carries both passengers and vehicles. We recommend taking a ride — it’s a unique experience and a great photo opportunity.

Next, you’ll continue to Arnuero, where you’ll find the Mirador de Corporales in the Ecoparque de Trasmiera. This natural area features a diverse landscape of cliffs, beaches, and caves. You can explore various marked trails suited to different fitness levels.
By evening, you’ll arrive in Santander, the capital of Cantabria.

Today you’ll spend the day leisurely exploring Santander — the capital of Cantabria, a city rich in history, with beautiful beaches and parks.

Start your day with a visit to the Magdalena Peninsula, home to the Palacio de la Magdalena, the former summer residence of the Spanish royal family. The park surrounding the palace is perfect for a relaxing walk with views of the sea and coastline. There’s also a small zoo on the peninsula with penguins, seals, and sea lions — a highlight for children.

Next, relax in the Jardines de Piquío, a charming green space with a fountain and a viewpoint overlooking the El Sardinero beaches and the sea.

After lunch, head to the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in Spain. Climb to the viewing platform for breathtaking views of the ocean and rugged coastline.

In the evening, take a stroll along the seafront promenade, enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant with ocean views, or visit the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a Gothic-style landmark.

Today you’ll leave the welcoming city of Santander and head inland toward the majestic mountains of the Picos de Europa National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns and villages surrounded by green hills and mountain landscapes.

Your first recommended stop is Potes, the main town of the Liébana Valley. Potes is famous for its medieval center with narrow cobbled streets, old houses, and stone bridges. It’s a pleasant place to walk around, browse souvenir shops, and try local cheeses and liqueurs, such as Queso Picón Bejes-Tresviso and Chacolí wine.

Next, your journey continues to Fuente Dé, home to the famous Teleférico Fuente Dé cable car, which takes you up to a viewpoint at 1,823 meters above sea level. From there, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. We recommend buying tickets online in advance to save time.

At the top, you can choose one of several hiking routes based on your preferences and fitness level — from a light 1–2 hour walk to longer treks for experienced hikers. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, water, snacks, and warm clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.

After your hike, you’ll descend and spend the night either in Fuente Dé or back in Potes.

Today you’ll say goodbye to the mountains of Picos de Europa and head toward the coast.

Your first stop is the Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno, a 750-hectare nature park where animals from all over the world live in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats.

You can explore the park by car, stopping at various viewpoints, or take the cable car for panoramic views of the landscape. We recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and the heat, and booking your tickets online to skip the lines.
After visiting the park, you’ll head to Laredo — a coastal town in Cantabria known for its wide beach, historic center, and lively atmosphere. Take a walk along the promenade, swim in the ocean, explore the old town, and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants serving fresh seafood.

Today you’ll leave Cantabria and head to France. Along the way, you’ll visit two charming villages — Ainhoa and Espelette, and finish the day in the famous resort town of Biarritz.

Your first stop in France is Ainhoa, officially recognized as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France.” This Basque village looks like it came straight out of a postcard: half-timbered houses painted in traditional red and white create a unique atmosphere.
Next, you’ll stop in Espelette — the village that gave the world the famous Piment d’Espelette (Espelette pepper). Here you can see how the peppers are grown and dried, and of course, buy some to take home as a souvenir.

After visiting the Basque villages, you’ll arrive in Biarritz — an elegant resort on the Atlantic coast of France. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach, strolling along the promenade, or exploring the town.

Сегодня вы посвятите день знакомству с Биаррицем Biarritz– жемчужиной французского Атлантического побережья. Этот город, некогда скромная рыбацкая деревушка, в XIX веке превратился в фешенебельный курорт, излюбленное место отдыха аристократии и творческой элиты.

Начать знакомство с городом можно с посещения маяка Биаррица Phare de Biarritz, построенного в 1834 году. Поднявшись на его вершину (248 ступеней), вы сможете насладиться великолепным панорамным видом на город, побережье и океан.

Далее прогуляйтесь к церкви Святой Евгении Église Sainte-Eugénie de Biarritz, построенной в неоготическом стиле, и загляните в старую рыбацкую гавань, расположенную неподалеку.

Одной из главных достопримечательностей Биаррица является скала Девы Марии (Rocher de la Vierge) Rocher de la Vierge. К этой скале, увенчанной статуей Девы Марии, ведет изящный металлический мост, спроектированный самим Гюставом Эйфелем.

Конечно же, нельзя обойти вниманием и знаменитые пляжи Биаррица, которые привлекают серферов со всего мира. Вы можете попробовать свои силы в этом виде спорта, взяв урок в одной из многочисленных школ серфинга, или просто отдохнуть на золотистом песке, наслаждаясь шумом волн.

Вечером вы можете поужинать в одном из ресторанов города, отведав блюда баскской кухни или свежайшие морепродукты

Today is the final day of your journey through the Basque Country and Cantabria. In the morning, you will head to Hondarribia, a charming medieval town located on the border between Spain and France, at the mouth of the Bidasoa River.

You’ll stroll along Calle San Pedro, the main artery of the historic center, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and old houses with colorful balconies. Then, continue to Arma Plaza, which offers views of the bay and Parador de Hondarribia, a former castle of Charles V that now operates as a luxury hotel.

If time and interest allow, you can drive to Hermitage of Guadalupe. The church itself is not of great historical significance, but the viewpoint in front of it provides a stunning panoramic view of Hondarribia, the Bidasoa River, and the French coast.
After visiting Hondarribia, you will head to the motorhome drop-off location. Once the vehicle is returned, you can proceed to the airport for your flight home.