For curious travellers or those looking for something different, there are many tourist attractions in this area that many people don't know about. Here are some examples that you should take note of.

5 lesser-known places in Bilbao Bizkaia that will fascinate you

 

Island of Garraitz or San Nicolás in Lekeitio

The small island of Garraitz or San Nicolás is located just off Lekeitio and its main peculiarity is that it is accessible on foot at low tide.

It is a tiny natural paradise that offers an experience of tranquillity and connection with nature and the sea, all just a few steps away from one of the most beautiful villages in Bizkaia. In addition to its biodiversity, the island also preserves very interesting religious and military archaeological remains. In fact, it has been an Archaeological Park since 2019.

 

Loizaga Tower in Galdames, the medieval museum of classic cars

This picturesque 13th century fortress, perched on a hill above Galdames, houses an amazing treasure: the largest private collection of Rolls-Royces in Europe, with no less than 45 vehicles built between 1910 and 1998.

The Loizaga Tower itself and its forest surroundings are truly beautiful and perfect for a leisurely stroll after admiring all these automotive oddities.

 

Chapel of San Pedro Atxarre, the viewpoint over Urdaibai

The chapel of San Pedro Atxarre is located at the top of mountain Atxarre, a 312-metre promontory in the municipality of Ibarrangelu, overlooking the Urdaibai biosphere reserve. The views are breathtaking!

As if a bird's eye view of Urdaibai were not enough, the route to the chapel is beautiful—simple and suitable for the whole family—, and runs through forests, old farmhouses and other chapels.

 

Jentilzubi Arch: nature and legend

The Gorbeia Natural Park hides many secrets and this is one of them: the Jentilzubi arch ("Bridge of the Gentiles" in Basque) is a spectacular natural wonder to be found in the municipality of Dima, near the Baltzola cave.

Basque mythology attributes the creation of the Jentilzubi arch to the gentiles, mythological creatures with great strength and power who inhabited this area in ancient times.

An environment full of nature in its purest form, and routes and trails, where ancient legends come to life. What could be more stimulating?

 

The beauty of the Karrantza Valley

The Karrantza Valley is one of the least known areas of Bilbao Bizkaia, but it is also one of the most beautiful ones and with the greatest offer.

It is a green paradise surrounded by steep mountain ranges where you will find streams, ravines, intricate paths and interesting examples of historical heritage (such as the church of San Andrés de Biañez, converted into a museum, or that of San Bartolomé de Aldeacueva, from the 18th century).

What's more, some of the beauty of Karrantza is to be found in a place you wouldn't imagine: underground. It is no coincidence that Armañón Nature Reserve, which includes more than 200 natural caves, can be visited in this area. The highlight is the Pozalagua Cave with its erratic and capricious formations of stalactites and stalagmites, that are among the most surprising in Europe.

 

What do you say? Would you like to dive into the most unknown and special heritage of Bilbao Bizkaia? Throughout this territory there are many gems waiting to be discovered, so we encourage you to get off the beaten track and visit destinations such as the ones we suggested: we assure you that it will be well worth it!