Sopelana, a coastal Basque town, offers an extraordinary coastal retreat. Discover the mesmerizing Flysch formations, where adventure seamlessly blends with tranquility in Sopelana. Unwind on sun-drenched beaches and plunge into invigorating water sports.
Let us guide you through what to do in Sopelana, where to eat, the best accommodations to suit your preferences, and the outdoor activities that make Sopelana so great.
Getting There
This coastal town is located in the province of Biscay. It rests along the Sea of Cantabria. It is roughly 20 kilometers (12 miles) northeast of Bilbao.
Visiting Bilbao? You might be interested in our Ultimate Travel Guide To Bilbao.
Driving
Driving to Spelana, Sopela in Spanish, from Bilbao is relatively easy. The fastest way to get there from downtown is to take the Artxanada tunnel. Cross the La Salve bridge, its the bridge beside the guggenheim. Taking this route does involve a toll however, the toll is less than a Euro.
Once you have paid your toll follow the signs that say Getxo. Getxo is a city made up of several towns that include Algorta, Las Arenas, and Leioa. As you near Getxo the highway splits in two. If you continue straight you will head into Getxo, so you will want to stay to the right. Look for signage that says Plentzia. To get to Plentzia you have to pass through Sopelana. After you pass Getxo you just continue straight. Voila, you are in Sopelana.
Metro
The only thing that you really need to make sure to do when taking the metro to Sopelana is that you get on an L1 line train towards Plentzia. The trip will take you 30-40 minutes, and trains come every 10 minutes or so.
Sopelana has two metro stations, Sopela and Larrabasterra. The Sopela station is in the city centre and the Larrabasterra station is at the start of town. If you are heading to the beach it is best to get off at the Larrabasterra station.
Next to the Larrabasterra station there is the Sopela tourism office if you have any questions. The representatives speak English, Spanish, French and Basque.
Sopelana Weather
The climate in Sopelana is generally mild and pleasant throughout the year. However, here is a quick breakdown of Sopelana’s weather averages:
January is the coldest month, with an average high temperature of 11C (51F) and low temperatures of 7C (45F).
Spring temperatures start to rise with an average high of 15C (59F) in April.
July has an average high temperature of 23C (73F) while August has an average high temperature of 26C (80F).
In autumn temperatures start to cool off with an average high of 20C (67F).
Keep in mind that these are just averages. Don’t be surprised to have some summer days around 40C (104F).
Looking for more Sopelana weather specifics? Check the Sopelana Forecast.
Where To Stay
Sopelana has a variety of accommodation. Whether you want to stay at a trendy hotel a rural house or camp, there is something in Sopelana for you.
Moana Eco Surf House
The Moana Eco Surf House is located close to the beach, which is always a plus. It ihas a modern design with a spa and offers yoga classes. You can also enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast. It has 23 room, free off-site parking but is not pet friendly. If you don’t have a pet then this hotel is a great option.
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Hotel Modus Vivendi
Hotel Modus Vivendi is located in the city centre and is a laid-back environment. The suites are spacious and some have terraces. This hotel has on-site parking, a gym and bar. Kids under the age of two stay free however, your furry friend is not allowed to join you. Hotel Modus Vivendi is a fine if you want to be in the city and value on-site parking.
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Keyser-v
Keyser-v is located across the street from the Larrabasterra station. It is a convenient hotel that is between the city centre and the beach. Once a house, Keyser-v is welcoming, with its terraces that overlook the lawn. There are occasional events that are held there as well as work out classes, a cafe and restaurant. It has off-site parking and is pet-friendly. Keyser-v is a great option if you are bringing your pet with you or value flexibility between city and beach.
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Casa Rural Ortulane
Casa Rural Ortulane is a no frill accommodation. You won’t be wow by the decor but you do get a cheaper price. It is technically in Urduliz so it is a bit further from the ocean. It has on-site parking and offers breakfast for 4 euro surcharge but is not pet friendly. Casea Rural Ortulane is a good option if you are looking for something different and price is the main priority.
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Camping Sopelana
Camping Sopelana is located right next to the beach and has a wide arrangement of services. They have spots for camper vans, motorhomes and tenting. Also, if you are not into camping you can rent one of the bungalows. There are showers on-site, a store, restaurant and even a pool. Camping Sopelana is pet friendly as long as your friend stay on leash. This is a wonderful option if you are not wanting to stay in a hotel, want to be close to the beach or are bringing fido along.
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Where To Eat
El Peñón
Location, Location, Location! El Peñón sits just above the beach and has the perfect terrace to savor the views. If dining while watching a sunset sounds good to you then here is the spot.
They specialize in elaborate drinks, natural shakes and offer a pintxo bar on the weekends. The menu features steaks and seafood as well as a rotating seasonal menu. The wine list is varied so you have lots to choose from. El Peñón is definitely worth your time.
Indian Sopelana
Indian Sopelana is a fun pub that is very laid back. Don’t let the name foul you, it does not serve Indian food. This funky pub is actually themed after the motorcycle brand Indian.
It is a larger venue with billiards, darts, and shows all the Athletic Bilbao football games. There are actually three different bars at the Indian and there is a live DJ one Saturday a month. The food is nothing over the top but it is tasty and you can get some good pintxos. For the most part, what makes Indian Sopelana so good is the vibe.
Keyser-v
Keyser-v is one of the trendier places to eat in Sopelana. The restaurant and patio are nestled next to their botanical garden. All their dishes are handmade, including the sauces.
The breakfast menu is flavorful without being heavy on the stomach. Salmon, avocado, and egg toast is a great way to start the day. The daily menu serves a variety of seafood, salads and burgers. Many of the ingredients used in Keyser-v’s dishes are organic and come from the garden they have on the property. Go to Keyser-v if you want a flavourful experience and a relaxing atmosphere.
What To Do In Sopelana
Sopelana Beaches
Atxabiribil Beach
Atxabiribil Beach, also known as El Peñón, is a beautiful beach. This stunning beach is known for its powerful waves and rocky terrain, which makes it a favorite among experienced surfers.
The beach stretches over 800 meters in length and 30 meters is wide.The water is usually very clear and clean, and a great spot for swimming and other water activities.
Sopelana Beach
Sopelana Beach is an expansive beach that stretches for about 840 meters and is known for its wide sandy. One of the unique features of Sopelana Beach is its stunning backdrop of rugged cliffs. The beach is divided into two sections, with the western part being a popular spot for surfers due to its strong waves and the eastern part being more family-friendly with calmer waters.
There is a nudist section of Sopelana Beach known as “La Salvaje” or “The Wild One” in English. This secluded section of the beach is located at the western end of the beach
Meñakoz Hondartza
Meñakoz Hondartza is a beach situated on the north coast of the Basque Country, Spain, in the towns of Sopelana and Barrika. This stony beach is less well-known or accessible than other beaches in the area, and as such is less frequented.
It can only be reached by foot, either by hiking along the coastal trail or by descending a steep set of stairs from the cliffs above. At 400 metres long, It is ideal for those seeking solitary and tranquil spaces.
Sopelana Surfing
Sopelana is one of the best surfing spots in Basque Country. This surfing destination has consistent swells throughout the year, making it a popular spot for all levels. The beaches are wide and spacious, providing you with plenty of room to catch waves without overcrowding.
That being said, it can still get busy in the peak summer months. Locals often consider the months of September, Odtober, and November as the best times to surf in Biscay.
The beaches are surrounded by beautiful cliffs, flysch and beautiful scenery, making it a beautiful place to relax in between waves. If you are looking for a really good place to surf you’ve found it in Sopelana.
Water
The water in Sopelana is pleasant and suitable for surfing throughout the year. Though, in autumn and winter you may want to wear a wetsuit. Here is a breakdown of average water temperature throughout the year.
Summer (June to August)
During the summer months, the water in Sopelana reaches its highest temperatures, ranging from around 18°C (64°F) to 21°C (70°F). This is considered comfortably warm for most surfers, allowing you to enjoy the waves without the need for a wetsuit.
Spring and Autumn (April, May, September, October)
In the spring and autumn seasons, the water temperature in Sopelana starts to cool down slightly. During these transitional months, the average water temperature ranges from around 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63°F). While a wetsuit might be necessary for some, many surfers still find these temperatures enjoyable.
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings cooler water temperatures to Sopelana. The average water temperature ranges from around 12°C (54°F) to 14°C (57°F) during these months. Wetsuits are typically required to keep warm while surfing in winter conditions.
If you are interested in the Sopelana surf forecast check out the magicseaweed sopelana webcam and weather report. They have a ton of useful information about Sopelana surfing conditions.
Sopelana Surf School
Interested in taking lessons or needing to rent some gear? Here is a list of popular surf schools in Sopelana
Peña Txuri
“Peña Txuri was founded in 1989 to offer all the residents of Sopela the possibility of knowing and learning all the secrets of this sport.
What began as a small family of friends, today is a great family that continues to fight for the same causes and that will continue and grow, so that as they wanted we continue to transmit everything they taught us.”
La Salvaje Surf Eskola
“We are the surfing school of Barinatxe beach (La Salvaje) which includes the municipalities of Getxo and Sopela. Since 2004 we have been offering surfing courses and classes for all levels and ages.We are your surfing school in Bizkaia.”
Gorka Yarritu
“Founded by Gorka Yarritu, a professional surfer with more than 30 years of experience and more than 15 as a monitor and manager of the Eskola, he is also Team Manager of Quiksilver, in charge of signing and guiding future promises.”
Paragliding
If you are looking for an exhilarating adventure in Sopelana then consider going paragliding! For over 30 years, the skies of Sopelana have been filled with vibrant colors as hang gliders and paragliders take flight.
The beaches of Azkorri or Gorrondatxe, Punta Galea, Atxabiribil, and Barrika are just a few of the incredible sights you’ll observe from paragliding in Sopelana.Additionally, La Salvaje beach is an absolute gem for free flight. The slopes are perfectly oriented, allowing you to take flight almost every day. It’s an ideal spot to spread your wings and feel the exhilaration of gliding through the air.
If you want to go paragliding in Sopelana, there are a few companies that offer paragliding tandem flights. SkyNorte, Parapente Sopelana, and Iparapente are convenient options to book your unforgettable paragliding experience in Basque Country.
Flysch
Flysch is a geological phenomenon formed through the accumulation of materials in oceanic subduction zones, creating sedimentary rock. It is characterized by alternating layers of sandstone, shale, and silt deposited by turbidity currents.
The composition and appearance of flysch vary depending on the source of sediment and deposition conditions, resulting in irregular shapes and sizes.
The Basque coast has many places to view flysch. If you go to Atxabiribil Beach, Playa del Sopelana, Meñakoz Hondartza, or walk above the cliffs to witness this wonder.
Hiking
Hiking around Sopelana is one of the best ways to experience more of the landscape. There are many beautiful hikes and walks around Sopelana that you can explore. Some popular hikes include Faro de la Galea, A vista de pajaro, and Playa Muriola. All of these can be done by walking the Paseo de la Galea. To learn more about this beautiful adventure read Sopela Cliffs To Algorta: Walk Above The Cliffs
If you walk the other direction away from Atxabiribil beach you will quickly climb alongside a cliff that allows for 360 degree views, including Noja, Cantabria, some 40km (25 miles) away. The trail passes beside a series of apartment buildings built on the slope. This is a short hike but an impactful one. If you want to continue on you can. The trail goes to Barrika, and then to Plentzia. It is a wonderful outdoor activity, if you are up for it.
Looking for more outdoor activities in Biscay? You might like Best Hiking Near Bilbao – Basque Country.
Sopelana – The Verdict
Sopelana is an idyllic coastal destination that promises a remarkable retreat. With its breathtaking beaches, lively surfing culture, and diverse array of accommodations and dining options, Sopelana has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable time.
Nestled amidst stunning cliffs and picturesque shores, Sopelana invites you to indulge in sun-soaked relaxation, refreshing swims, and exhilarating surfing. From upscale boutique hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, you’ll find a place to suit your preferences and make your stay comfortable. When it comes to dining, Sopelana caters to all tastes, offering a delightful range of culinary experiences.
Sopelana provides a mild climate, unspoiled natural beauty, and warm hospitality. If you are seeking an active getaway or a tranquil escape, this charming coastal town holds the key.