Self-Guided Gravel Bike tour: San Sebastian and the Hidden Valleys of the Basque Country

This morning our local partner, Miguel, will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. He will be there to fit your bikes and give you the maps and documents you need for the week and answer any questions.

Next, its time to start your Basque gravel bike tour!

This first leg of your journey flows out of the city and along the banks of the Urumea River, sweeping you through the heart of Basque cider country in Astigarraga before reaching Andoain. From there, prepare for one of Northern Spain’s most captivating Vías Verdes—a former railway line transformed into a gravel paradise that winds through deep, emerald valleys and a rhythmic series of light-filled tunnels.

The ride from Andoain to Leitza is a steady, gentle ascent through a wild and secluded landscape where the only soundtrack is the local wildlife. Because this stretch is beautifully remote with no services along the way, we recommend enjoying a long lunch in Andoain or packing a picnic to enjoy en route before you reach the welcoming stone streets of Leitza.

This stage continues your journey along the Plazaola Greenway toward Lekunberri, navigating a moderate, steady ascent through a series of historic railway tunnels. Upon reaching the town, you’ll transition onto the Plazaola Natural Path, which traces the Larraun River beneath a lush canopy of native beech and oak forests.

The route winds through the serene Basaburua Valley, connecting a string of sleepy villages via wide paths and quiet secondary roads with virtually no traffic. It is a ride of pure mountain air and pastoral beauty, culminating in a well-earned stay at the elegant Hotel & Spa El Mirador de Ulzama, where you can relax and soak in the panoramic views of the valley whilst enjoying the included dinner.

Prepare yourself for the most technically demanding and exhilarating stage of the journey!

Leaving the hotel, you’ll immediately begin your ascent via a quiet secondary road toward the village of Orokieta. The real challenge begins a few kilometers later as you veer onto a rugged mountain track; here, you will climb toward the peaks for a rewarding bird’s-eye view before plunging into a technical, and gorgeous, descent toward the mystical Leurtza Reservoirs. From the water’s edge, a paved descent carries you down into Donamaria. The final stretch levels out as you cruise through Santesteban, eventually arriving in Elgorriaga for a well-deserved recovery at your hotel. A visit to the spa is included as well as dinner!

After breakfast, your Basque gravel bike tour comes to an end!

Get in touch with us if you are interested in spending some extra nights in San Sebastian, or extending your trip to the beautiful green city of Vitoria or other towns in the Basque Country.