Zarautz combines a former whaling settlement and tourist importance that has grown since the 19th century with coastline, buildings and culture. This brings together several different themes for your stay: beach and surfing, local history, and paths along the sea.

Beach and surfing

Zarautz Beach is 2,500 metres long and the longest in Gipuzkoa. There are waves here all year round, as well as several surf schools. If you plan to take surf lessons, it is best to check the dates directly in advance. This lets you include time at the beach and a possible lesson in your travel plans without committing to a particular schedule.

The beach promenade also makes for a walk in its own right: along the way, you can discover sculptures by various artists and several children’s playgrounds. Beach facilities include showers, toilets, a lifeguard service, and parasols and chairs. If you plan to use any of these facilities on a particular date, it is advisable to check current availability.

Buildings and history

Zarautz has a history stretching back 1,200 years and an important ensemble of monuments. Luzea Tower is a Gothic tower in the town centre. Narros Palace is a Renaissance palace, while Portu Palace dates from the 16th century. These examples represent different architectural periods and provide tangible landmarks in the town’s history.

Archaeological evidence includes the Santa María la Real Monumental Complex. It contains remains from the Romanisation period and a medieval necropolis, visible through a glass floor. The Photomuseum, the Basque Museum of Photography and Film, offers a different way to explore culture: its chronological tour covers the techniques of photography and film, as well as art.

Zarautz’s past as a whaling settlement is also part of the town’s character. From the 19th century onwards, the town developed into an important tourist destination. Those interested in this maritime history can trace it at various locations along the Maritime Heritage Trail. The route presents the seafaring heritage through watchtowers and hermitages on hilltops, the pier, the old harbour and a former mineral loading station.

Paths by the sea and through town

For a walk focused on history, there is the Conjunto Monumental route. It follows the monuments through Zarautz’s history. The Maritime Heritage Trail places a particular emphasis on seafaring history, while the Conjunto Monumental route takes a broader look at the town’s monuments. This gives you two different themed options.

If you would rather follow the sea, a footpath runs along the coast from Zarautz to Getaria. Guided walks through the Iñurritza biotope are also offered in Zarautz. If you would like to plan this guided nature excursion, check the current dates in advance. The beach promenade, coastal path and guided walk each offer a different way to spend time outdoors.

Wine and choosing a focus

Wine is also part of the local tradition: Zarautz has vineyards and wineries belonging to the Txakoli de Getaria designation of origin. This connection adds an agricultural and landscape perspective to the themes of the beach, seafaring and architectural history.

When looking for a hotel in Zarautz, it can help to decide first what you would like to focus on during your stay: would you mainly like to spend time at the beach, discover buildings and history, or explore the area on foot?

Discover more destinations: Larraul, Abaltzisketa, Condado De Treviño, Llodio.

Back to the regional travel overview: Basque Country.