Summary
Exploring Hondarribia: A Jewel of the Basque Country
The names of towns and villages in the Basque Country can indeed be challenging to pronounce. Nevertheless, their charm and beauty make them worth the effort to learn, alongside a few essential phrases of the Basque language.
Hondarribia is one such town. Following a delightful breakfast at a quaint guesthouse, we took a taxi to Hondarribia, which was conveniently only a few minutes away.
Interesting fact: Although Hondarribia is situated in Gipuzkoa in the Spanish Basque Country, it is adjacent to the French Basque Country, allowing for stunning views of France right from your doorstep.
As this article is primarily a photo diary, I will refrain from excessive commentary and present the collected images (though I may occasionally interject with thoughts—it’s a habit of mine).
Visit to the Parador de Hondarribia
We commenced our visit at the Parador de Hondarribia, a hotel located within an ancient fortress. The structure retains much of its historical significance and is certainly worth a visit.
Here is the view of France that I previously mentioned.
Exploring the Town and Streets of Hondarribia
The cobbled roads throughout the town only enhance Hondarribia’s idyllic and historical charm. One can easily envision what life was like decades or even centuries ago.
The Impressive Church
The local church, with its impressive architecture both internally and externally, boasts one of the lengthiest names of any church I have encountered: Iglesia parroquial de Santa Maria de la Asuncion y del Manzano. Quite a mouthful!
The item depicted below is crafted from reach shell, with the holding piece approximately the size of an average hand, allowing for a sense of scale regarding the shell’s size. There are two of these, one situated on each side of the church.
Final Views of the Harbour
It would be remiss of me not to return for one last glance at the remarkable view of the harbour before departing Hondarribia for our next destination—San Sebastian, a place that I cherish not only in Spain but across Europe.
