resort

Ever heard of Basque Country? No? Good, that’s more room on Playa La Concha and more cheesecake from La Viña for me!

The Basque region of Spain is in the far Northeast, it shares a border with France. In addition to speaking Castillano (Spain Spanish) they have their own language called Euskara. The climate is very different from the rest of Spain, with the result being an abundance of greenery that ends in pristine beaches. I have a theory that Spaniards keep this region as a secret for themselves, because other than a few adventurous foreigners like the other study abroad girls I was traveling with, the region seemed devoid of the mass groups of gawking, selfie stick using, obnoxious tourists.

I’m ashamed to admit that I do not know enough about the region to give you all an accurate overview, so if you would like head to EuskoGuide for more info on the fascinating history and culture of this area. Unfortunately I only had 3 full days to explore the two most well known Basque cities: San Sebastián and Bilbao.

Because I have a TON of photos, I’m going to split them up into different galleries. First off, shots that I think capture some of the landscape in San Sebastian and Bilbao:

Captured from the window of a bus going 70 mph, pretty proud of myself!

Most photogenic theme park I’ve ever been to, more pics to come!

Sunset from the top of the funicular in San Sebastian.

Ignore my geared towards any type of weather outfit and look at this gorgeous view!

Literally. There was a tunnel behind me.

Taken from Playa La Concha in San Sebastian

Lush green mountains and the…BEACH. Need I say more?

Because one was obviously not enough, you all need to see more this place.

After a 1.5 hour hike up a mountain with luggage in the dark, at least we woke up to this.

From Madrid, my group and I took a 5(ish) hour bus ride to San Sebastián, which is one of the most North-Western cities in Spain. It’s reputation as an amazing resort town is completely accurate in my opinion. Upscale, friendly people, beautiful beaches, and a world-renowned food scene. Just take a look at these photos! Also, those sunset pics? Taken from a VINTAGE theme park just casually on top of a MOUNTAIN. NBD.