Those wishing to explore Loiu’s cultural history and landscape will find several points of interest: San Pedro represents medieval and Gothic architecture, while the Paseo vuelta a Loiu offers panoramic views and a natural setting. The history of the English Cemetery and the gastronomy and crafts fair broaden the picture to include remembrance and craftsmanship.
Churches and Local History
The Church of San Pedro dates back to a medieval building from the 12th century. Its Gothic features include two pointed-arch portals. The oak organ is another distinctive feature: it was inaugurated in 2007, has 1,200 pipes and 21 stops, and measures six metres wide, eight metres long and two metres deep. San Pedro thus brings together a distant historical origin and a more recent feature with a clearly established date. Those interested in religious architecture will find both specific building details and precise dimensions for the organ.
The English Cemetery is the resting place of the remains of 56 Commonwealth and Allied soldiers who fell in the Second World War, as well as seven others buried there who died in the First World War. The cemetery was established when remains were transferred from the former cemetery in Abandoibarra: they were brought to Loiu in 1929. The variety of trees is also one of the English Cemetery’s distinctive features. Commemorative history and tree cover are two different aspects of this place.
The hermitage of San Miguel de Arbildua (Lauroeta) was once the venue for the general assemblies of the Uribe Vicariate. It was also the scene of a tragic event during the bandit wars of Bizkaia. Another point of architectural interest is the twin parish houses, Las Casas Curales Gemelas: they were built in 1801 to plans by Juan de Zabala and Juan Antonio Acha. Larraburu Palace dates to the 18th century. Together, these dates span the 18th century through the early 19th century.
Mills, Walking Route and Park
Among Loiu’s most notable scenic mills are Txitorreta, Errotatxu and Goiengo Errota. The Goirengo Errota mill is another point of interest: the Paseo vuelta a Loiu passes by it, and the mill is still operating. If you specifically plan to see the mill in operation, check its current status beforehand.
The Paseo vuelta a Loiu is an easy circular route with panoramic views and a natural setting. It follows a bidegorri from the centre of Zabaloetxe to the Larrakoetxe junction. The route also passes by the Aula de la Naturaleza. It therefore offers a scenic route with named sections and waypoints. As specific route infrastructure may change, check the current route before setting out.
Parque del Ayuntamiento is a large, tree-filled park surrounding the town hall. Its facilities include children’s play equipment, a zip line and a large castle. This clearly defined range of activities complements Loiu’s architectural and commemorative themes.
October Event and Gastronomy
Loiu’s gastronomy and crafts fair takes place on the third Sunday in October. Gastronomic products and crafts are offered at numerous stalls throughout the town. If the fair is a deciding factor for your trip, confirm the date for the relevant year in advance. The range of products and the stall layout may also change.
Sidrería asador Loiu offers various set menus, including a typical cider-house menu and a tasting menu. As menu options and operations may change, check the current offering in advance.
Discover more destinations: Galdakao, Garai, Sanfuentes, Orduña, Muxika, Elorrio, Arrigorriaga, Areatza.
For the broader travel overview: Bizkaia.
