Birdwatching route in Bizkaia

Birdwatching route in Bizkaia Itinerary
  • City

  • Coast

  • Inland

Description

Discover the natural richness of Bizkaia over a two-day route designed to explore the best birdwatching sites in the region. Marshes, estuaries, cliffs and forests form a unique landscape where it is possible to observe a wide diversity of resident and migratory species throughout the year.

A perfect experience to enjoy nature, tranquillity and the extraordinary biodiversity that make Bizkaia a privileged birdwatching destination.

On day one, we will discover different corners of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1984, which you will enjoy exploring in depth.

On day two, we continue towards Gorbeia, a magical place where the Nervión Falls and Orduña are sure to impress you.

day 1

Following the wings of Urdaibai (birdwatching)

Urdaibai

Urdaibai

day 2

Overflying the Nervión Falls and Orduña (birdwatching)

Nervión Waterfall

Gorbeia

Following the wings of Urdaibai (birdwatching) Itinerary
  • City

  • Coast

Urdaibai

How to do it

  • coche

Itinerary

Starting point Barrio Orueta

Start the day in the wetlands of Orueta in Gautegiz Arteaga, one of the most accessible spots for early morning birdwatching. This is the best time of day, so it is worth arriving early and exploring the outdoor hides at a relaxed pace. Here you can observe plenty of activity in reed beds and open water, with herons, ducks and waders, especially early in the morning, although species and activity levels vary depending on the season.

Afterwards, head to the Urdaibai Bird Center, which opens mid-morning and works well as the next stop. From its indoor viewing points you gain a broad perspective of the area from a more comfortable vantage point. It complements what you have seen outdoors and helps to better understand the environment without needing to be constantly on the move.

Following the estuary, you reach Mundaka, at the mouth of the river, where the landscape changes slightly and inland and marine bird species begin to mix. Here, there is little more to do than move through the area and stop at viewpoints or open spaces. It is a good place to slow down the pace without stopping observation altogether.

Before leaving the coast, you can head to Cape Matxitxako, between Bermeo and Bakio, one of the most open points facing the sea. Here, the key experience is to stop for a while and look out towards the cliffs and the Cantabrian Sea, as there is often significant seabird activity.

Before continuing, you can head to Gernika for a break. Take a break to enjoy the local gastronomy (especially typical products such as Gernika peppers) and rest, combining the nature experience with a more relaxed moment within the route.

In the afternoon, as the final part of the route, it is suggested to explore the town centre. Take a leisurely walk and visit some of its most emblematic landmarks, such as the Casa de Juntas, the Árbol de Gernika or the Parque de los Pueblos de Europa.

This stop introduces a cultural aspect to the route and helps you better understand the historical and symbolic identity of the region.

Itinerary

Top resource information

A GOOD IDEA

If you want to enrich the route or adapt it to different paces, you can include additional experiences at various points along the route.

In the Urdaibai area, an interesting option is to visit Ekoetxea Urdaibai, a nature interpretation centre located in Busturia that allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the estuary ecosystem. You can also add a walk around the harbour of Bermeo.

These suggestions allow you to adapt the route according to available time or visitor interest, combining birdwatching with nature, culture and local gastronomy.

It is also worth noting that the route may vary depending on the time of year. Factors such as daylight hours, weather conditions or bird activity can influence the pace of the day, especially during the final stages.


Other Bilbao Bizkaia routes in the area

Experiences in the area

Overflying the Nervión Falls and Orduña (birdwatching) Itinerary
  • City

  • Inland

Gorbeia

How to do it

  • coche

Itinerary

Starting point Puerto de Orduñacar park

Day two begins in the area of Nervión Falls, in the Sierra Salvada, one of the best birdwatching areas in inland Bizkaia. From the Puerto de Orduña car park, an easy-going route takes you to the viewpoint. During this first section, the landscape gradually opens up and, upon reaching the cliffs, it is common to see birds of prey such as griffon vultures riding thermal currents, so it is worth taking time out to observe them.

From the viewpoint, the route can be extended along the cliffs towards the Txarlazo area, where the open views continue and the likelihood of spotting birds in flight increases. There is no need to complete the entire route: it is enough to walk part of it and stop at different points to enjoy the experience, adapting time and distance to the pace of the day.

After this first section, the route descends towards Orduña, where the landscape changes noticeably and the pace of the day becomes more relaxed. The most practical option is to stop in the town and enjoy the local gastronomy (cod in pil-pil sauce, traditional Basque-style rib steak, marmitako - a traditional Basque tuna and potato stew, etc). The town brings everything together in one place, making it an ideal spot to take a break without having to go out of your way.

After lunch, you can take some time to explore the historic centre of Orduña, with a short walk around the main square and streets. It is a brief stop, enough to change pace after the morning without extending the visit too much.

To finish, it is worth heading to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of La Antigua, located just a few minutes’ drive away. This viewpoint offers open views over the valley and adds a different perspective to the route without having to travel far. It is a pleasant place to stop, relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Itinerary

Top resource information

A GOOD IDEA

If you want to enrich the route or adapt it to different paces, you can include additional experiences at various points along the route.

In the inland area around Orduña, you can add other activities to your itinerary. One option is to visit a local txakoli winery, but bear in mind that visits usually require advance booking and fixed schedules. It is also possible to extend the route with a longer walk through the Nervión valley or visit nearby natural areas such as the area around Delika.

These suggestions allow you to adapt the route according to available time or visitor interest, combining birdwatching with nature, culture and local gastronomy.

It is also worth noting that the route may vary depending on the time of year. Factors such as daylight hours, weather conditions or bird activity can influence the pace of the day, especially during the final stages.


Other Bilbao Bizkaia routes in the area

Cycle tourism-Bike Spirit

Experiences in the area