Following the wings of Urdaibai (birdwatching)

Detail of plan

Basic plan

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