Lekeitio and Elantxobe

Lekeitio is a harbour town on the Bizkaia coast of Spain's Basque Country, about 60 km north-east of Bilbao, and Elantxobe is a small fishing village built into a cliff roughly 15 minutes further by car. The journey from Bilbao takes about one hour by bus or car. Bizkaibus A3512 runs direct from Termibus by the motorway, while A3513 and A3523 go by way of Gernika, with services roughly hourly on weekdays. Fares are not confirmed here, so check bizkaibus.eus or call 946 125 555 before travelling. A car makes it simplest to include Elantxobe, which has limited public connections.

Lekeitio's main attractions are its sandy Isuntza beach, the Gothic basilica of Santa Maria de la Asuncion, the old harbour and the islet of San Nicolas, which can be reached on foot across the sand at low tide. Check tide times before crossing, because the path floods. The town's old centre has narrow streets, bars and seafood restaurants, and the harbour quay is a pleasant place for a stroll. Elantxobe, perched on a steep slope above a tiny port, rewards visitors with winding lanes, colourful houses and sea views, and a short coastal walk can be added.

A suggested day begins with a morning bus to Lekeitio, a walk through the old town and the basilica, then the beach or the low-tide walk to San Nicolas. Lunch is a natural point to try fish from the harbour, grilled sardines or hake at a quay-side restaurant. In the afternoon, drive on to Elantxobe, explore the village and its viewpoints, and return to Bilbao in the early evening. Without a car, the day can focus on Lekeitio alone, with the Gernika connection as a possible stop on the return.

June to September is the best window for the beach and open terraces, while shoulder months are quieter. Arrive late morning in summer to find a seat for lunch, and plan for the weekend crowds in August.