Lekeitio between the Old Town, Lighthouse and Coast

Lekeitio brings together Gothic architecture, a maritime past and expansive beaches in a compact area. The historic centre is home to palaces, tower houses and hermitages alongside former sailors’ houses. The buildings tell the story of a town whose appearance is closely linked to life by the sea.

Old Town and Maritime Culture

A guided tour of the Old Town requires an appointment to be arranged in advance with the tourist office. The “Lekeitio marinero” experience includes an audio-guided tour through Lekeitio’s Old Town and harbour. Before such a visit, current times and organisational information can be checked with the responsible tourist office. When preparing for a visit to the interpretation centre, current opening hours should be checked. For audio-guided tours, it should also be checked when the service is available.

Navigation technology takes centre stage at the Santa Catalina Lighthouse. The building houses an interpretation centre on this subject and was the first lighthouse in the Basque Country open to visitors. At the end of June, the San Pedro festivities form part of the local festival calendar. The programme includes the traditional Kaxarranka dance: a dancer moves on a chest carried by eight sailors. The relevant event date is decisive when planning a visit to the festivities.

Island and Coast

The small island of San Nicolás, also known as Garraitz, lies off the coast. Pine trees characterise its wooded surface; there are no buildings or other structures there. The remains of an old hermitage have been preserved on the island. Here, a natural area and a historic landmark stand directly alongside one another, without the island being defined by development.

Lekeitio’s coastal landscape includes not only the traditional maritime ensemble of houses, but also significant Gothic buildings and expansive beaches. There are parking facilities within the town at Isuntza Beach; current information on access and local use can be checked before travelling.

Lea Path and Access to the Town

The Lea Path begins next to the Basilica of Santa María and leads to the end of Dendari Street. From there, the route climbs uphill alongside a cemetery. The summit can be reached in less than an hour. A hike along the Lea Path offers an opportunity for active tourism in Lekeitio.

Coming from Gernika, two free signposted car parks, designated P2 and P3, are available. From either car park, the town centre can be reached on foot in around 15 minutes. Before setting out on a hike, it is advisable to check the current trail conditions, as route conditions may change. For the San Pedro festivities, the event date should also be checked before travelling. Hikes require checking trail conditions and transport times before departure.

For the overarching travel overview: Bizkaia.

More Destinations

More places within the same destination:

Bilbao, Arrigorriaga, Orozko, Arantzazu, Osma, Zubialde, Mendieta, Durango.