Eco-friendly vehicles link you to the wonders of Spain’s Basque Country

Vibrant greens and blues stretch endlessly – the stunning allure of Basque Country is legendary (and even served as a backdrop for shows like Game of Thrones). A road trip through this area lets you discover more than just the beautiful capitals of Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and San Sebastián; it unveils the hidden treasures of the region.

While you're on the road, consider driving an eco-friendly electric vehicle (EV). We are experiencing a shift in road travel as electric vehicles become more common. In 2021, Basque Country launched the e-Basque Route, aimed at supporting electric drivers with resources and easy access to charging stations. By driving an EV, you lower your environmental footprint by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and save on fuel costs. Open the windows and immerse yourself in the sounds of nature, wind, and waves, free from the noise of a gas engine.

Begin your journey in San Sebastián and leisurely drive along the coastline. There are many ideal spots for breathtaking views and pintxos (tasty snacks) en route to Bilbao, followed by a scenic drive through the countryside to Vitoria-Gasteiz. You'll not only enjoy the sights and culture but also take pride in leaving this pristine area just as you discovered it.

Left: Playa de la Concha ranks among Europe's finest city beaches. Photo by Coke Bartrina for Dinogo Planet. Right: Monte Igueldo is reachable by a charming cable car. Photo by Coke Bartrina for Dinogo Planet

Day 1: Donostia / San Sebastián

Donostia / San Sebastián serves as the perfect launch point, a Basque coastal capital brimming with stunning scenery and delectable cuisine. Begin your day by soaking in one of Europe's most breathtaking views at the iconic Playa de la Concha. It deserves its title as one of the world's top beaches for many reasons – the picturesque city skyline is perfect for leisurely walks; the charming Tudor-style palace overlooks the beach beautifully; and Santa Clara Island beckons for swimming during low tide. Nestled in the port on La Concha's eastern side is Kofradia, a restaurant with strong ties to local fishermen. Participate in a product tasting to meet the people who supply sustainably sourced seafood, or simply savor the menu while enjoying views of the city’s harbor.

In the afternoon, head to the city’s surf-friendly beach, Playa de la Zurriola, where surfboard rentals are available if the waves are right. Then, work up an appetite with a stroll westward to the quaint cable car that ascends Monte Igueldo, whisking you up to the amusement park at the mountain's summit. Conclude your evening at Rekondo, where a traditional farmhouse conceals one of Europe’s most impressive wine cellars, featuring the largest collection of Vega Sicilia worldwide.

The Drive: Today, you're in San Sebastián, but if you have some extra time, take the scenic mountain road before dinner at Rekondo for breathtaking views that cascade into the vast sea. EV tip: Opt for a vehicle with ample range. Modern EVs offer enough capacity to explore all day and only require charging at night.

Left: Opting for an electric vehicle aids in promoting the transition to cleaner, more sustainable transportation. Photo by Coke Bartrina for Dinogo Planet. Right: Don’t miss trying the famous Basque cider straight from the barrels at Petritegi Sagardotegia. Photo by Coke Bartrina for Dinogo Planet.

Day 2: From Hondarribia to Astigarraga

With its vibrant fisherman’s quarter and the sight of France across the bay, Hondarribia presents yet another picture-perfect scene. Just a 20-minute drive from San Sebastián, it buzzes with both locals and visitors, and its medieval district provides a charming contrast along with even more stunning views. After exploring both areas, jump into your EV and ascend the 1,700-foot peak of Monte Jaizkibel, pausing at Santuario de Guadalupe for a leisurely walk to admire the ancient towers and spectacular miradores that offer breathtaking vistas. Then head inland to the village of Astigarraga, where sweeping views give way to apple orchards, and you can taste the distinctive Basque cider directly from the barrels at Petritegi Sagardotegia.

The Drive: Skipping the autopista (AP- or A- labeled highways) offers a more scenic journey. However, it's advisable to take the AP-8 for this segment to save time. EV tip: Install the Electromaps app on your smartphone. It will guide you to all available charging stations for electric vehicles throughout Basque Country.

Day 3: From Ordizia to Getaria

You'd be hard-pressed to find a village more authentically Basque than Ordizia, where the local language, Euskera, fills the streets and the town thrives on its culinary culture. Its vibrant market, established in 1512, is one of Spain's oldest. If you're fortunate, you might catch the annual Idiazabal cheese competition in September. If not, you can still enjoy local cheeses at this Wednesday morning market. After stocking up, make your way to Getaria, but be sure to visit the Chillida Leku Museum, which feels more like a private home than a traditional museum, showcasing impressive iron and rock sculptures by Basque artist Eduardo Chillida.

Winding through the lush hills by the ocean, take your EV into the vineyards where Hondarrabi Zuri, a local varietal for making txakoli, flourishes. You can sample this wine at Txomin Etxaniz winery. For dinner, head to the village of Getaria, where outdoor grills fill the streets – Elkano restaurant offers what is possibly the finest grilled turbot in the world, thanks to its sustainable sourcing and the culinary traditions passed down through generations.

The Drive: Follow the national highway N-634, a delightful route that meanders through several charming villages from Hernani to Getaria. EV tip: When reserving accommodations, seek out places with EV charging facilities. Many hotels offer complimentary charging, which can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Also, watch for free charging stations in some major Spanish cities as incentives for electric vehicle use.

Clockwise from the top left: The Flysch Route along the Basque Coast features rugged cliffs revealing millions of years of geological history. Tide pools in the eroded rock are filled with vibrant marine life. Bilbao, viewed from the Ribera market bridge, offers a slower pace of life and a rich artistic culture. The Mirandaola Foundry, established in the 14th century, is one of Spain's oldest industrial sites.

Day 4: Journey from Zumaia to Bilbao

The next stop on your journey from Getaria is Zumaia, renowned for its striking Basque flysches. Step out of your EV to explore the Flysch route at the Basque Coast Geopark, where dramatic, layered cliffs of limestone and sandstone reveal 60 million years of Earth's geological history. Erosion has sculpted stunning visuals and created tide pools brimming with marine life, reflecting the Basque culture's deep respect for nature and commitment to sustainability. Further along the coastal road, you'll discover San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a hermitage from the 800s perched above the sea, accessible only by ascending 241 steps.

Continue your journey to Bilbao, taking the scenic coastal route that showcases charming fishing villages like Lekeitio and the surf haven of Mundaka. As the largest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao thrives on contemporary art and architecture, highlighted by Frank Gehry’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, the striking bridge and airport designed by Calatrava, and vibrant street art scattered throughout the urban landscape.

The Drive: Follow the winding coastal road as long as you can; the breathtaking views from Zumaia to Lekeitio make the journey worthwhile. EV Tip: Electric vehicles come equipped with advanced tech, such as regenerative braking, smart navigation, and remote monitoring features that enhance your driving experience.

Detour: Visit Mirandaola Foundry

If possible, take a 30-minute detour to visit the intriguing 15th-century Mirandaola Foundry. This well-preserved site features a water wheel that powers massive bellows and hammers. Workers don traditional protective attire from 500 years ago, and witnessing the transformation of molten ore into gleaming swords is truly remarkable. You can observe the ironworks in action on the first Sunday of each month during autumn and winter, and every Sunday from April through summer. Be sure to check out the adjacent chapel, which houses a miraculous cross formed spontaneously by the forge.

Left: Parque Natural de Urkiola ranks among the most stunning locations in the Basque Country. Coke Bartrina for Dinogo Planet Right: Urkiola is revered as a sacred site in Basque mythology and tradition. Coke Bartrina for Dinogo Planet

Day 5: Journey from Urkiola to Vitoria-Gasteiz

Begin your day at one of the Basque Country’s most picturesque areas—Urkiola National Park. Park your EV at Santuario de Urkiola and venture into the beech, fir, and birch forests, hiking past the Three Crosses for views of the Atxarte gorge and the mountains believed to be the dwelling place of the Basque goddess Mari. Afterward, enjoy lunch at the Valle de Atxondo, where the renowned Asador Etxebarri serves expertly grilled local delicacies, including baby eels and St. George mushrooms, in a breathtaking setting. Following your meal, head to Vitoria-Gasteiz, known as the greenest capital of the Basque Country, boasting well-preserved medieval architecture. The Plaza de la Virgen Blanca is the perfect place to relax and contemplate the harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and sustainability experienced during your EV road trip.

The Drive: Navigate the BI-623 to reach Vitoria-Gasteiz, a route that meanders through the national park, offering a more picturesque journey that takes less than an hour. EV Tip: Opting for an electric vehicle over a gas-powered one supports the shift towards cleaner, more sustainable transportation options. Increased demand fosters investment and advancement.

From our sponsors: Explore the official tourism website of Basque Country to kickstart your trip planning today.