An authentic sagardotegi (cider house) in the hills above San Sebastián operating since 1928, where visitors can experience the traditional January–April cider season. The txotx ritual — pouring cider directly from enormous barrels — is accompanied by a set menu of salted cod omelette, txuleton steak, and idiazabal cheese.
Sidrería Petritegi is one of the most authentic and historic sagardotegiak (cider houses) in the Basque Country, operating from a beautiful rural property in the hills near Astigarraga — the cider capital of Gipuzkoa — since 1928. A visit to Petritegi is an immersive encounter with one of the Basque Country's most deeply rooted food traditions: the txotx ritual, the set menu, and the communal spirit of the cider house are experiences entirely distinct from conventional restaurant dining. During the traditional cider season — January through April — enormous wooden barrels holding up to 20,000 litres of naturally fermented apple cider are opened to guests who stand with their glasses ready to catch the arc of cider that jets from the barrel tap. The word txotx (pronounced 'chotch') is shouted to signal each opening, and guests move between barrels throughout the meal. The accompanying menu is fixed and traditional: first a salt cod omelette (tortilla de bacalao), then a full txuleton steak grilled over charcoal, then a wedge of idiazabal cheese with quince paste and walnuts. All cider consumed throughout the meal is included in the price. Outside the season, Petritegi is open at weekends year-round for cider tastings and meals. The apple orchards surrounding the property produce the estate's own cider from traditional Basque varieties. The experience requires no formal dress — casual, convivial, and communal.
Signature dishes
- Cider house menu (bacalao omelette, txuleton, cheese) — €35 per person
- Unlimited cider — Included in menu
Good to know
- Known for
- Traditional Basque cider house experience
- Hours
- January–April daily 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (cider season); weekends year-round
Location
Barrio Astigarraga, Gipuzkoa (near Astigarraga village)
43.2740, -1.9380 View on map
Highlights
- Operating since 1928 — one of the oldest and most authentic cider houses near San Sebastián
- Full txotx experience: guests move between enormous barrels and catch cider arcs throughout the meal
- Fixed traditional menu: salt cod omelette, txuleton steak, idiazabal cheese with unlimited cider
- Estate apple orchards produce artisanal cider from traditional Basque apple varieties
- Communal tables and standing barrel rituals create a uniquely festive, social atmosphere
Tips for visiting
- Visit during the January–April cider season for the full txotx barrel experience — this is the authentic tradition
- The set menu (approximately €35) includes unlimited cider throughout — pace accordingly
- Wear comfortable, casual clothes — cider houses are informal and cider occasionally splashes
- Book well ahead for January–April weekends: cider season is hugely popular with locals and visitors alike
- A car is the most practical way to reach Astigarraga from San Sebastián (about 10–15 minutes)
Accessibility
Petritegi is a rural property with outdoor and barn-style spaces. The ground is uneven in parts, particularly around the barrel hall. Wheelchair access is limited; guests with mobility needs should contact the cider house directly before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the txotx ritual at a Basque cider house?
Txotx (pronounced 'chotch') is the shout that signals the opening of a barrel tap. Guests gather around the barrel with their glasses and hold them at an angle to catch the thin arc of cider that jets under pressure. It is repeated throughout the meal as different barrels are opened.
Is a visit to Sidrería Petritegi possible outside the cider season?
Yes — Petritegi is open at weekends year-round for cider tastings and traditional meals, though the barrel-tapping ceremony is exclusive to the January–April season. The estate and orchards are beautiful in any season.
Is the menu at a cider house always fixed?
At traditional sagardotegiak like Petritegi, yes — the menu is a set sequence of dishes with no substitutions. The traditional menu is salt cod omelette, txuleton steak, and idiazabal cheese, with unlimited cider throughout.
How much does a cider house visit cost at Petritegi?
The traditional set menu with unlimited cider costs approximately €35 per person. Non-alcoholic alternatives to cider are available at an additional charge.
Is Petritegi suitable for children?
Yes — cider houses are deeply family-oriented in Basque culture. Children are welcome, and non-alcoholic drinks can be arranged. The communal atmosphere and informal setting make it an enjoyable outing for families.