A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Ondarroa: Discover this charming coastal town in the Basque Country

Ondarroa is a picturesque fishing village located on the north coast of Spain, in the province of Biscay, in the autonomous community of the Basque Country. With its traditional charm and beautiful natural surroundings, Ondarroa is a popular tourist destination for those looking to enjoy Basque culture and the beauty of the Cantabrian Sea.

Beaches and stunning landscapes

One of the main attractions of Ondarroa are its beautiful beaches. Arrigorri beach is the largest and most popular, with its golden sand and crystal clear waters. It's the perfect place to relax under the sun and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea.

Another notable beach is Saturrarán Beach, which offers stunning panoramic views of the cliffs and the sea. This beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand, is surrounded by green mountains and cliffs that create a breathtaking landscape. The history of Saturrarán is woven with cultural, social, and political elements that reflect the evolution of the region over the years. Since ancient times, Saturrarán has been valued for its natural environment, becoming a popular destination for relaxation and leisure among locals and visitors alike.

In addition to its beaches, Ondarroa boasts a stunning landscape. Mount Santa Katalina offers a panoramic view of the entire town and the sea, and is an ideal place for hiking and enjoying nature. You can also visit the fishing port and watch local fishermen bring in their catches of the day.

First-class Basque cuisine

Cuisine is another highlight of Ondarroa. As a fishing village, you will find a wide variety of delicious dishes based on fresh fish and seafood. Local restaurants offer a unique culinary experience, where you can try traditional dishes such as hake in green sauce, cod pil-pil and pintxos. The pintxo is not just food; it is an experience that encapsulates the gastronomy, innovation, and social life of the Basque Country, making it an indispensable element of its culture and a must-try delight for any visitor.

Pintxos are known for their variety and creativity. They range from simple options, like a slice of baguette topped with Spanish omelet, to more complex and sophisticated culinary creations that innovatively combine flavors, textures, and colors. Typical ingredients include seafood such as cod, anchovies, and octopus; varieties of cheese; Iberian ham; peppers; and a range of fillings and sauces that reflect the richness of Basque cuisine.

In addition to being a showcase of culinary art, the pintxo is a central element of social life in the Basque Country. The tradition of "poteo" or "txikiteo," which involves going from bar to bar enjoying different pintxos accompanied by small glasses of wine or cider, is a common practice and a way of socializing. This gastronomic route not only allows the tasting of a wide variety of pintxos but also fosters meeting and conversation among friends and family.

Cultural and historical heritage

Ondarroa also has a rich cultural and historical heritage. The old town is full of charm, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful houses. The Church of Santa Maria is a must-see, with its impressive Gothic architecture and interior decorated with religious artwork.

Festivals and traditions

Ondarroa is known for its festivities and traditions. The Arrantzale Eguna is a very special and significant festival in Ondarroa, celebrated here in mid-August, as well as in other fishing villages of the Basque Country. The word "Arrantzale" means fisherman in Basque, and the Arrantzale Eguna is Fisherman's Day. This celebration is a tribute to the fishing community and its historical and cultural importance in the region.

Although specific activities may vary from year to year and from village to village, the Arrantzale Eguna typically includes several events designed to celebrate the life and work of fishermen. In Ondarroa, it is traditional to dress in blue.

The Arrantzale Eguna is not only an opportunity to celebrate the importance of fishing and to honor those who have dedicated their lives to the sea, but it also serves as a reminder of the hardness and risks of this profession. This festivity unites the community, strengthening the bonds and cultural identity of the Basque fishing villages. It should be noted that in each village this day may vary in its activities.

Don't forget to try to overcome the Kukaña!! It consists of walking along a piece of wood, to which a kind of oil is applied to complicate reaching the tip, located approximately 8 meters in length, if you don't make it you will fall and sink into the river!!!, the place where they also throw, when the skillful participant reaches the tip, with the satisfaction of the applause from everyone who saw him arrive!!!! It is an activity in which you see quite funny acrobatic movements and why not, some belly flops!!

Between Waves and Oars: The Tradition of Traineras in Ondarroa

Traineras in Ondarroa are much more than mere boats; they are a symbol of maritime tradition and cultural identity of this Basque fishing village. Originally fishing boats designed for catching tuna and other species in the Cantabrian Sea, traineras have evolved to become the focus of one of the region's most thrilling sporting competitions: the trainera races..

These vessels, long and slender, are designed to be fast and agile in the water. Equipped with oars and crewed by teams of rowers, the traineras compete in regattas held during the summer months, drawing crowds of locals and visitors alike. The competitions are not only tests of strength, skill, and coordination among the rowers but also significant social events that foster a strong sense of community and local pride.

Ondarroa, with its rich maritime history, is one of the towns actively participating in this tradition. The local rowing club, representing the town, competes in various regattas along the Basque coast, keeping alive the heritage of the traineras. These events are not just sporting competitions but also celebrations of Basque culture, its maritime history, and the town's deep connection with the sea.

  

The trainera races are, therefore, an exciting spectacle and an integral part of the summer festivities in Ondarroa, offering a window into the tradition, competitiveness, and camaraderie that defines this fishing community.

In August 2022, Ondarroa came in first place in this thrilling competition! And, of course, the entire town celebrated that unforgettable night!

Ondarroa is a charming tourist destination that combines beautiful beaches, rich gastronomy, fascinating cultural and historical heritage, and traditional festivities. If you are looking for a place to enjoy authentic Basque culture and relax in an impressive natural setting, Ondarroa is the perfect place for you.

Gastronomic Products of Ondarroa

• Pil-Pil Cod

  Ondarroa is famous for its delicious pil-pil cod. This traditional Basque dish consists of desalted cod cooked with olive oil, garlic, and chili pepper. The result is a tasty and juicy dish, with an emulsified sauce obtained by moving the oil with the cod. It is a must-have dish for fish lovers.

• Marmitako

  Marmitako is another typical dish of Ondarroa. It is a stew of bonito with potatoes, onion, green pepper, and tomato. It is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for the colder days. The bonito used in this dish is fresh and of high quality, which gives it an exceptional flavor.

• Txakoli

  Ondarroa is known for being one of the producing regions of txakoli, a young and fruity white wine. Txakoli is made with native grapes from the area and is characterized by its freshness and balanced acidity. It is the perfect accompaniment for the region's fish and seafood dishes.

Sporting Activities in Ondarroa, Spain

Surfing

Ondarroa is known for its beaches and waves, making it an ideal place for surfing. Whether you're an experienced surfer or just starting out, you'll find waves for all levels.

ABAHUB Sup Leash, Accesorio Sup, Tabla de Surf Leash Board Sup Safety Line
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Hiking

The surroundings of Ondarroa offer numerous hiking trails that will allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. You can explore the cliffs of the coast, the forests, and nearby mountains.

Rhino Valley Bolso de Tiza para Escalada
Escala nuevas alturas y supera tus límites con el Rhino Valley Bolso de Tiza para Escalada, el complemento perfecto para cualquier escalador, gimnasta o levantador de pesas. Este bolso de magnesio, diseñado para ser completamente impermeable y sin fugas, te asegura un acceso fácil y rápido a la tiza, manteniendo tus manos secas y tu agarre firme. Con una correa de cintura ajustable, un práctico mosquetón y cremallera, es tan versátil como durable. No dejes que el sudor te detenga; lleva tu Rhino Valley a cada desafío y mantén el enfoque en tu rendimiento. ¡Prepárate para conquistar con confianza, equipa tu bolso Rhino Valley hoy!

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Cycling

Cycling is another popular activity in Ondarroa. You can rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings, or if you prefer a challenge, you can try some of the area's mountain biking routes.

CIRYCASE Luces Bicicleta Delantera Y Trasera
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Fishing

Ondarroa is an old fishing port, so fishing is a very popular activity among locals and tourists. You can rent a boat and fishing gear and spend a day at sea, or simply fish from the port.

Hilo Trenzado de multifilamentos para Seaknight Pesca en mar, 15-100LB
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Places near Ondarroa (Spain)

If you are in Ondarroa and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Lekeitio, a charming coastal village in the Basque Country, captivates with its natural beauty and rich culinary tradition. Enjoy its beaches, its picturesque harbor and don't miss the opportunity to try its delicious dishes of fresh fish and seafood.

Mutriku, a charming coastal village in the Basque Country, will captivate you with its natural beauty and rich culinary tradition. Enjoy its beaches, its picturesque harbor and taste delicious dishes of fresh fish in its cozy restaurants. A perfect destination for lovers of the sea and good food.

Elantxobe, a charming fishing village on the Basque coast, will captivate you with its picturesque cobblestone streets and stunning sea views. Enjoy its delicious cuisine, where you can taste the best dishes of fresh fish and seafood from the region.