11 October 2024 | DAY TOUR
San Sebastian offers breathtaking natural landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience them is through hiking. Nestled just west of the city, Mount Igeldo offers some of the most picturesque trails that showcase the region’s beauty. In this guide, we’ll explore three of the most popular hiking routes on Mount Igeldo: the Donostia-Orio trail, Cala Tximistarri, and Mendizorrotz. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic walk, these trails provide stunning views, fresh air, and a peek into the history and culture of the area. Let's dive into these unique routes, with easy access from the heart of San Sebastian via public transportation.
One of the most beloved trails on Mount Igeldo is the Donostia-Orio hike, which forms part of the iconic Camino de Santiago. This route is particularly popular among locals and takes you through pastoral landscapes, scenic cliffs, and charming farmhouses, all while offering unparalleled views of the Cantabrian Sea. It’s an ideal route for those who want to explore the natural beauty surrounding San Sebastian.
The trail starts from the end of Ondarreta Beach, where you’ll begin your ascent toward Mount Igeldo. As you pass through the residential area of Erregenea, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of La Concha Bay and the Antiguo neighborhood. The initial climb is the steepest part of the hike, so be prepared, but once you reach higher ground, the trail levels out as it meanders through forests, meadows, and traditional Basque farmhouses.
Along the way, you’ll cross paths with cyclists and fellow hikers, many of whom are traveling the same route as part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. The path leads through quiet wooded areas, past charming hamlets, and over old stone pathways that have existed for centuries. As you approach Orio, the descent begins, offering magnificent views of the town, its beach, and the surrounding vineyards.
This trail also extends beyond Orio, with the option to continue on to Zarautz along the Talaia Bidea coastal path, which adds another 9 kilometers to your journey. If you choose to stop in Orio, you can easily catch a bus back to San Sebastian, making it a convenient round-trip hike.
For those seeking a shorter but equally rewarding hike, the Cala Tximistarri route offers a unique opportunity to discover hidden beaches and stunning cliffs along the Basque coastline. Cala Tximistarri, also known as "the rock struck by lightning," is a secluded cove that feels like a step into another world, with its rugged landscape and dramatic ocean views.
The trail begins near the Hotel Leku Eder, located at the famous "Valentín curve" on Mount Igeldo. From here, you follow a dirt path that descends towards the coastline. The first viewpoint offers a glimpse of Cala Zentellazulo, often mistaken for Tximixtarri, with its intriguing rock formations, including one shaped like an iguana.
As you continue along the trail, you’ll pass vibrant wildflowers and rare plant species, adding to the beauty of the journey. Eventually, you’ll reach the viewpoint overlooking Cala Iruamuitzeta, where the iconic Tximistarri rock juts out into the sea. The descent to the cove is steep but manageable, and the secluded beach at the bottom is worth the effort. Surrounded by pebbles and striking rock formations, it’s an ideal spot for a quiet picnic or even a refreshing swim if the tide is low.
Once you've soaked in the natural beauty of this remote beach, the return hike takes you back up to the starting point, with more scenic stops along the way.
Mount Mendizorrotz, standing at 416 meters, is one of the tallest peaks in the San Sebastian area, offering incredible panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding green hills of Gipuzkoa. The summit is steeped in history, with ruins of an old fort and monuments that provide insight into the region’s past.
To begin your ascent, take the bus from San Sebastian (Line 16) to the Igeldo campsite. From there, you’ll walk along a narrow road leading toward the base of Mendizorrotz. The trail climbs gradually, passing through beautiful rural landscapes dotted with Basque farmhouses and open fields. As you make your way up, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged, but the effort is rewarded with expansive views as you approach the summit.
At the top, you’ll find the remains of a fort that dates back to the Carlist Wars, as well as a skeletal iron cross commemorating those who died during Spain's Civil War. The summit offers 360-degree views, including sights of the nearby Kukuarri hill, the Orio coastline, and the distant peaks of the Pyrenees.
This hike is perfect for those interested in combining outdoor adventure with a bit of history. The trail is well-marked, but keep in mind that the weather can change quickly at this altitude, so come prepared with proper gear. Once you've taken in the views, you can either retrace your steps back to the campsite or extend your hike through the surrounding valleys.
If you're wondering how to get to Mount Igeldo, it’s easier than you might think. While many visitors opt for the funicular, which takes you up to the amusement park area of the mountain, a more convenient option for hikers is Bus Line 16. This bus departs regularly from the city center and takes you directly to the village of Igeldo, from where you can access all three of these hiking routes.
For those driving, there’s also parking available near the trailheads, but the bus remains a popular choice due to its convenience and affordability.
After enjoying one of these picturesque hikes on Mount Igeldo, there’s still plenty to explore in San Sebastian. Here are a few San Sebastian places to see to round out your visit:
A mountain full of possibilities
Mount Igeldo is much more than a viewpoint with breathtaking views. Its hiking trails allow you to discover the history and wild nature of this area. From the pastoral Donostia-Orio crossing, through the rugged beauty of the Tximistarri cove, to the historic summit of Mendizorrotz, each hike offers a different and enriching experience.
And after a day of hiking, nothing better than returning to Lasala Plaza Hotel and to enjoy the gastronomy of San Sebastian or simply relax on the beaches of the city. If you are looking for what to visit in San Sebastian, do not hesitate to include any of these routes in your itinerary.
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