Luxury Villas & Apartments in San Sebastián

Of San Sebastián, Anthony Bourdain once declared, “There’s no better place to eat in Europe.” Step inside any bar and you’ll see why: tortillas spill with molten egg, steaks blush pink like a secret, and cheesecakes collapse into custard.

At the heart of it all are pintxos: bite-sized jewels of Basque cuisine. Originating in San Sebastián in the 1930s, the name, meaning ‘spike’ or ‘skewer’, comes from the toothpick that once held these tiny treasures together.

Today, pintxos have evolved into an art form, and the city is full of unforgettable examples. Start with the Gilda: San Sebastián’s most iconic bite, first created at Casa Vallés. Sharp, salty anchovies pair perfectly with briny olives and spicy, tangy guindilla peppers. For the more indulgent, go for carrillera – melt-in-the-mouth beef cheeks, slowly braised in rich, red wine until they break apart with the touch of a fork. Or pulpo, tender octopus, chargrilled to smoky perfection and dusted with paprika.

Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying the tortilla de patatas – arguably the most famous of the pintxos. Savoury onions and fluffy potatoes melt into this legendary trio. At Bar Nestor, only a handful are made each day, and securing a slice is a rite of passage for many food lovers.

Playa de la Concha

Just moments from the bustling centre lies a serene escape of sand and sea. There aren’t many cities that have beaches in their centre – and even fewer have been voted the best in Europe. But Playa de la Concha isn’t just unique because of its location, next to the town hall and shopping district; its history is fascinating.

In 1845, Queen Isabel II was advised to bathe in the sea as a remedy for her skin problems. Her preferred waters: the bay of Playa de la Concha. After visiting the striking sands, Isabel II made it her beach of choice, and the aristocracy followed.

Generations later, the Royal Family built their summer residence – Miramar Palace – over La Concha Bay, cementing it as one of Spain’s most exclusive destinations.

Today, tourists and locals enjoy the calm waters of Playa de la Concha. And as the largest and most popular beach, with sands stretching 1,350 metres, there’s space for everyone to enjoy this beloved shoreline.

Santa Clara Island

Sitting opposite Playa de la Concha, Santa Clara Island is a striking sight: a rugged, rocky islet rising wildly from the Cantabrian Sea. As you stroll along La Concha Bay, it’s impossible to miss. Covering just over five hectares, this picturesque island can be reached by boat or by swimming.

Motoras de la Isla has ferried visitors here for over 80 years, with daily sailings from the 1^st of June to the 30^th of September, as well as on public holidays throughout the year. For confident swimmers, the island is only half a kilometre from the coast and is accessible during summer and favourable sea conditions.

The island is small enough to be explored in just a few hours – but make the beach a priority as it’s only exposed at low tide. After that, try out the natural pool at the far end. For breathtaking views, the beach bar looks out towards Playa de la Concha and serves food and refreshments during the summer months.

A visit to the lighthouse can’t be missed. Built in 1864 on the site of the island’s former chapel, its beam flashes once every five seconds, giving you plenty of chances to see it in action. While there, seek out Hondalea – a dramatic installation sculpted in the keeper’s house. The building had been abandoned since the 1960s before the native sculptor, Cristina Iglesias, recovered it to house her striking work.

Ondarreta Beach

Starting from the port, follow the famous white railings along the Paseo de la Concha and you’ll find Ondarreta Beach.

Less crowded than its famous neighbour, this stretch of sand is perfect for those chasing a quieter retreat for the whole family. Nestled in the western end of the bay, its location protects it from strong waves, offering a safe and quiet bathing spot, perfect for the little ones.

Families can also find a children’s playground, where the youngest can burn off some energy while the adults soak in the sun. For the more active, try your hand at canoeing and paddle surfing, or play a game of beach volleyball and football on the sand.

Art lovers, take a stroll to the end of the beach. At the foot of Mount Igeldo, you’ll find Peine del Viento, or The Comb of the Wind, one of the most celebrated sculptures by Basque artist, Eduardo Chillida.