Highlights Of Northern Spain
Historic towns, lovely settings
1 BILBAO
The metropolitan centre of the region, Bilbao has been transformed over the last 25 years and is now a stylish cultural centre with great restaurants, museums and art galleries. The catalyst was the striking Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, which is now rivalled by the 7000+ works of art on view at the nearby Fine Arts Museum. Stroll through Casco Viejo, the oldest part of the city, browse the small shops and stop for a drink in one of the many bars.
2 SAN SEBASTIAN
Its setting undeniably gives San Sebastian (or Donostia, as it’s known in Basque) the wow factor. Sited round the sweeping curve of a sheltered bay, golden beaches fringe the city. Take a wander through the old town and marvel at the historic buildings and the impressive Santa Maria and San Vincente Church. It also home to charming shops and amazing pintxo bars. The newer parts of the city are laid out as wide, often tree-lined boulevards and here you can shop in elegant boutiques to your heart’s content.
3 SANTILLANA DEL MAR
A beautiful perfectly-preserved jewel of a town – cobbled streets, honeyed stone and brick buildings with flower-filled balconies contribute to the impression that you’ve just stepped back to the Middle Ages. The town is named after St Juliana, to whom the town’s stunning church is dedicated. Close by are the incredible Altamira Caves and Museum, where you can wonder at prehistoric cave paintings of bison and other animals.
4 OVIEDO
Oviedo is the capital of Spain’s Asturias region and, while it’s relatively small, it’s elegant, charming and steeped in history. Don’t miss the Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador, a major stop for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Head two miles northwest of the city to find the Palacio de Santa Maria and Iglesia de San Miguel de Lillo that date back to the eighth and ninth centuries.
5 PAMPLONA
Most famous for its “running of the bulls” every July which attracts more than 1 million visitors, Pamplona has plenty to see once the festival is over. The well preserved old town is a delight, with stone-paved streets and charming balconies. The Plaza del Castillo is lined with hotels, restaurants and cafes. It was here that For Whom The Bell Tolls author Ernest Hemingway would sit and drink coffee.
6 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the final destination for pilgrims coming to worship at the tomb of St James (Santiago in Spanish), one of Jesus’ apostles, now found in an awe-inspiring cathedral. Narrow streets open onto pretty squares edged with granite buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Good food is a way of life here, with an array of dining experiences from bars to select restaurants. Shellfish is a speciality.
7 PICOS DE EUROPA NATIONAL PARK
Truly one of Spain’s hidden delights, it’s worth moving away from the coast to visit the breath-taking Picos de Europa Mountains, Spain’s first national park. There are a multitude of walking routes to suit every level of ability and all include stunning viewpoints to truly appreciate the scenery. Ask at a local tourist information office.
8 SANTANDER
The city lies in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by excellent beaches. El Sardinero is made up of two stunning kilometre-long beaches so lap up the sunshine, go for a paddle or just stroll along the promenade and stop for some pintxos (as tapas is known here) in one of the bars. Or take a walk (or a bus) to Magdalena Peninsula, home to 24.5 hectares of parkland, spectacular views and Palacio de la Magdalena, whose opulent interior is open to the public at selected times. Don’t miss Santander’s newest attraction, the Centro Botin – a must-see for art and architecture lovers.