From Bilbao: Elorrio, Oñati, and Sanctuary of Arantzazu Tour

Discover the hidden gems of Spain’s Basque Country with the "From Bilbao: Elorrio, Oñati, and Sanctuary of Arantzazu Tour." This curated 5-hour journey whisks you away from the bustling city of Bilbao to uncover the region’s rich history and architectural wonders. Stroll through picturesque villages, marvel at the iconic family crests, and learn about the captivating legacy of Oñati’s revered university. However, the true highlight awaits as you venture to the modern Sanctuary of Arantzazu, where the融 of faith and modernity collide in a breathtaking display. Join us on this remarkable exploration and uncover the enchanting tapestry that is the Basque Country.

Key Points

• This 5-hour Basque Country tour departs from Bilbao and visits the rural villages of Elorrio and Oñati, as well as the Sanctuary of Arantzazu.
• The tour explores the unique historical and architectural features of each location, including the family crests in Elorrio and the oldest university in the region in Oñati.
• Participants will receive guided tours at each site, providing insights into the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Basque region.
• The tour includes transportation, lunch, and hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it a convenient and comprehensive experience.
• With high customer ratings for value, safety, and overall satisfaction, this tour is an excellent way to discover the rural charm and scenic landscapes of the Basque Country.

Tour Overview

The tour kicks off at 9:00 AM with a pickup from the bus stop at the tourist office next to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

It’s a 5-hour exploration of Basque Country’s rural villages, palaces, and breathtaking landscapes. Priced at $67.16 per person, the tour is available in English and Spanish with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include the Elorrio’s traditional architecture, the University of Sancti Spiritu in Oñati, and the unique Sanctuary of Arantzazu.

The tour also includes transportation, a guided tour at each location, and lunch.

Whether you’re an adult or a child, this immersive experience is a great way to discover the cultural richness of the Basque region.

Itinerary

Typically, the tour begins with a bus/coach transfer from the meeting point at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65 to Durango, taking around 30 minutes.

From there, the group passes by the charming village of Elorrio, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the town’s largest collection of family crests and traditional architecture, lasting about an hour.

Next, it’s off to Oñati for a one-hour guided tour, including a visit to the University of Sancti Spiritu, the oldest university in the Basque Country.

The final stop is the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, where a 45-minute guided tour showcases the unique architecture and design elements of this impressive religious landmark.

Highlights

This tour offers a chance to discover Basque Country’s rural villages, palaces, historical buildings, and breathtaking landscapes.

Visitors can explore Elorrio, known for its large collection of family crests and traditional architecture. They’ll also visit the University of Sancti Spiritu, the oldest university in the Basque Country.

The highlight of the tour is the unique Sanctuary of Arantzazu, designed by renowned local architects and sculptors. The sanctuary’s striking modern design and picturesque setting make it a must-see destination.

Throughout the tour, you will gain insights into the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this remarkable region.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a professional guide to accompany participants throughout the excursion. The guide provides insights and historical context as the group visits the charming villages and the renowned Sanctuary of Arantzazu. Transportation is also included, with a bus/coach taking the group between the various locations. Lunch is provided, ensuring participants are fueled for the day’s adventures. The tour also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making for a seamless and convenient experience.

Inclusion	Description
Professional Guide	Provides commentary and historical context
Transportation	Bus/coach travel between sites
Lunch	Meal provided during the tour
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off	Convenient start and end to the day
Guided Tours	Explore Elorrio, Oñati, and Sanctuary of Arantzazu

Participant Information

For this tour, adults aged 13 to 99 years old are eligible to participate.

Children aged 2 to 12 can join, but they’ll receive a 50% discount and must be accompanied by at least two adults.

Infants aged 1 and younger can also come along at no additional cost.

The tour caters to a wide range of travelers, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.

To ensure the safety and satisfaction of participants, the tour organizers have set clear age guidelines and requirements, providing a seamless and memorable journey through the Basque Country.

1. Adults (ages 13-99) can participate in the tour.
2. Children (ages 2-12) can join at a 50% discount, accompanied by at least two adults.
3. Infants (age 1 and younger) can attend the tour free of charge.

Customer Reviews

Participants have overwhelmingly praised the tour, awarding it an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars across 9 reviews.

They’ve highlighted the tour’s excellent value for money, rating it 4.8/5. Reviewers also commend the tour’s safety, with a 4.5/5 rating.

The service and overall organization have been particularly noteworthy, earning perfect 5/5 scores.

Customers have expressed positive experiences with the tour’s punctuality, knowledgeable guides, and scenic routes through Basque Country’s rural villages, palaces, and breathtaking landscapes.

The tour provides an engaging and immersive exploration of the region’s history and culture, leaving participants highly satisfied with their experience.

Departure and Return

The tour departs from the bus stop at the tourist office next to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao at 9:00 AM, with pickup starting at 8:50 AM.

After journeying through the rural villages of Elorrio and Oñati, as well as visiting the breathtaking Sanctuary of Arantzazu, the tour returns to the original departure point.

The key aspects of the departure and return are:

1. Pickup location: Bus stop at tourist office next to Guggenheim Museum.
2. Departure time: 9:00 AM, with pickup starting at 8:50 AM.
3. Return location: Back to the original departure point of Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65.

Exploring Basque Country

Travelers on this tour venture into the heart of Basque Country, discovering the charming rural villages of Elorrio and Oñati, as well as the magnificent Sanctuary of Arantzazu.

In Elorrio, they’ll explore the largest collection of family crests and traditional architecture in the region.

The tour then moves to Oñati, home to the oldest university in the Basque Country.

Finally, they’ll marvel at the unique Sanctuary of Arantzazu, designed by renowned local architects and sculptors.

Throughout the journey, guests will witness the breathtaking landscapes that define the Basque Country, seeing its rich history and cultural heritage.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is when the weather is mild and sunny, typically from late spring to early fall. The scenic landscapes and historic sites are most enjoyable during this period.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities, though some portions may present challenges. Visitors should contact the tour provider in advance to discuss their specific needs and accommodate any necessary arrangements.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Included Lunch?

The tour doesn’t provide specific details about dietary requirements for the included lunch. However, it’s likely the provider can accommodate various dietary needs with advance notice. Guests should contact the tour operator to discuss any special dietary requests.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can likely be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about tailoring the itinerary to their preferences, such as highlighting certain historical sites or natural landmarks along the route.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The typical group size is not specified, but it’s likely a small to medium-sized group tour. Most of these Basque Country tours accommodate between 15-30 participants to provide a more personalized experience.

Sum Up

This tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Basque Country. From picturesque villages to the striking Sanctuary of Arantzazu, it provides a comprehensive introduction to the region’s history, architecture, and traditions. With expert guidance, delicious local cuisine, and stunning scenic vistas, it’s a must-do experience for anyone seeking to discover the essence of this captivating corner of Spain.