Mountain Dreaming🏡
Just wrapped up a wild road trip through the Basque Country — think sleepy mountain villages, epic sea views, and sunrise hikes 🌄✨. The route covers Areatza, Dima, Biscay, Laguardia, Gernika-Bermeo, Bermeo, Alava, and Bakio, with free van sleeping spots for full adventure mode.
Must-See Places:
1. Parketxea Centro de interpretación del Parque Natural de Gorbeia (Gudairen Plaza, 1, Areatza): Get outdoorsy and soak up mountain vibes with sunrise or sunset trails 🌳.
2. Hotel Balneario Areatza (Askatasuna, 50 bis): If you skip the van, the spa here is perfect after hiking. Rooms are huge, surroundings are peaceful, staff are super friendly. Downside: food’s pretty meh, so eat elsewhere when you can.
3. Axpe Goikoa Erretegia & Garena jatetxea (Iturriotz, 11, Lamindao): Two delicious picks for local eats — in Lamindao, Biscay. Go for late lunch and ask for seasonal dishes!
4. Laguna de Carralogrono & Laguna de Carravalseca (Laguardia, Álava): Gorgeous lakes for morning walks, especially with sun reflecting on the water.
5. Mirador Nuevo San Juan & Camino de San Juan in Bakio: Epic lookout spot for sea views and culture. The hike to SAN JUAN DE GAZTELUGATXE is worth the sweat — pack snacks!
6. Área recreativa y mirador de San Juan, Bakio: Great for pics and quick food stops.
Pro Travel Tips:
– Found some clutch free van sleeping spots: just look for quiet lay-bys near trailheads or park areas (especially around Dima and Bakio). Totally safe and gorgeous scenery!
– Skip hotel restaurant food, go out for local pintxos instead. Try Herriko Benta in Dima for rustic Basque eats.
– Weather is sunny but pack layers — mountain mornings are chilly!
– Getting around: Drive your own van for total freedom; parking is easy at almost every major stop.
#hellonewyear #BasqueCountryRoadtrip #VanLife #HiddenSpain #GorbeiaTrails #Gaztelugatxe