SURROUNDED BY THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CORNERS

We have already said goodbye to Easter. Over the past few days, the city has been filled with the excitement of both locals and visitors—and we can still feel it. A vibrant atmosphere that doesn’t have to fade, because April is the perfect month for a spontaneous getaway, and there are always spectacular places left to discover.

That is precisely what we want to share with you from Hotel Parma: San Sebastián is a unique destination, and its neighboring towns are an essential part of its charm. Each of these places has something special, and thanks to public transport, they are easy to reach. Here are some recommendations:

• Zarautz

Zarautz Beach, also known as “The Queen of Beaches,” is the largest in the Basque Country and one of the longest along the Cantabrian coast. It’s no surprise that surfing is a key part of the local culture, and the town is internationally known among surf enthusiasts. A walk along the promenade is always a lovely plan, and beyond the sea, there is much to discover in Zarautz: the Narros Palace, the Karlos Arguiñano restaurant, and the old town, for example. To get there, we recommend taking the UK10 bus from María Cristina Bridge—a 25-minute journey.

• Getaria

From Zarautz, you can enjoy a scenic 4.5 km walk to Getaria. You’ll take in a stunning natural landscape that blends the green of the mountains with the blue of the Cantabrian Sea, ending with an unbeatable reward: dining at the port of Getaria and enjoying the flavors of this fishing village. This medieval walled town has a special charm and is known for Mount San Miguel, “The Mouse of Getaria.” You can visit the monument to Juan Sebastián Elcano or the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, both born in Getaria. If you prefer to go directly from San Sebastián, we recommend taking the UK10 bus from María Cristina Bridge—a 35-minute journey.

• Hondarribia

Hondarribia is located at the mouth of the Bidasoa River, at the foot of Mount Jaizkibel. In the 17th century, the town emerged victorious in several conflicts against the French, and evidence of this can be seen in its beautiful old town and the preserved sections of its medieval walls. The colorful houses that capture the spirit of this fishing village and its beach are reason enough to visit. However, it offers much more: the historic Plaza de Armas and the Castle of Charles V, the lively La Marina district, and excellent gastronomy in restaurants such as Arroka Berri or Alameda. To get there, we recommend taking the E21 bus from Gipuzkoa Square—a 30-minute journey.

• Biarritz

Biarritz has something unique: it is the only destination mentioned here located on the French side of the Basque Country. Like Zarautz, surfing is part of the city’s identity, and the importance of the sea can be felt everywhere. Starting from the Biarritz Lighthouse, a walk along the coast will surprise you: its luxurious architecture (as a former retreat for aristocracy), the greenery of nature, and the ocean combine to create a truly beautiful landscape. Along the way, you’ll see Biarritz’s key landmarks: the 1929 casino, the fishing port, the Imperial Chapel, the Aquarium, and the Rock of the Virgin stretching into the sea. If possible, the most convenient option is to go by car (50 minutes), or alternatively by train (from San Sebastián to Hendaye, and then from Hendaye to Biarritz).

As you can see, there is no shortage of plans. What are you waiting for? Come to Hotel Parma and discover the beautiful places that surround us.