A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Oñati: The Jewel of Basque Gothic in Bizkaia, Spain

Introduction

Oñati, located in the province of Bizkaia in the Basque Country region of Spain, is a town known for its rich history and impressive Gothic architecture. Known as the "Toledo of the North", Oñati is a tourist destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Historical and Architectural Heritage

The old town of Oñati is an architectural treasure. The Church of San Miguel stands out, an impressive example of Basque Gothic architecture. Another notable building is the Monastery of Bidaurreta, which dates back to the 16th century and houses a library with a collection of ancient manuscripts.

The Sanctuary of Arantzazu, located on the outskirts of Oñati, is another point of interest. This modernist sanctuary, built in the 20th century, is an important place of pilgrimage and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

University of Oñati

The University of Oñati, founded in 1540, is one of the oldest universities in Spain. The university's historic building is an impressive example of Renaissance architecture and houses the International Institute of Legal Sociology.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Oñati is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and climbing in the surrounding mountains, or explore the Arrikrutz caves, a complex cave system with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another of Oñati's great attractions. Visitors can enjoy traditional Basque cuisine, which includes dishes such as Biscayan cod, Tolosa beans, and Idiazabal cheese. In addition, the region is known for its cider, and there are several cider houses in the surrounding area where you can taste this traditional drink.

Festivals and Events

Oñati hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, offering visitors the opportunity to experience Basque culture first hand. Highlights include the San Miguel festivities in September, with its traditional arch dance, and Holy Week, with its historical processions.

Gastronomic Products of Oñati

• Idiazabal Cheese

  Oñati, located in the Goierri region, is famous for the production of Idiazabal cheese, a sheep's cheese with a designation of origin. This cheese is made with raw milk from Latxa and Carranzana sheep, and has an intense and slightly spicy flavor. It is a highly valued product in Basque cuisine.

• Oñati Chorizo

  The Oñati chorizo is another standout gastronomic product of the area. This sausage, made with pork, paprika, garlic, and salt, is cured for several months to obtain its characteristic flavor. It is an essential ingredient in many traditional Basque dishes.

• Cider

  Although cider is produced throughout the Gipuzkoa region, Oñati has several cider houses that offer this traditional Basque drink. The cider is made from local apples and is served directly from the barrel in a ritual known as "txotx". It is a refreshing and slightly acidic drink, perfect to accompany any meal.

Sporting Activities in Oñati (Bizkaia)

Hiking and Trekking

Oñati, located in the heart of the Basque Country, offers a wide variety of hiking and trekking routes. You can explore the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, with its impressive mountains and panoramic views.

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Mountain Biking

Thanks to its mountainous location, Oñati is an ideal place for mountain biking. There are numerous routes available, both for beginners and more experienced cyclists.

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Climbing

For climbing enthusiasts, Oñati offers several options. One of the most popular places is the Ataun climbing area, which has routes of different levels of difficulty.

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Canoeing

The Deba River, which runs through Oñati, is a perfect place for canoeing. There are local companies that offer equipment rental and courses for beginners.

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Places near Oñati

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

Arantzazu, in the Basque Country, is a must-see tourist destination, famous for its sanctuary and its impressive mountainous landscape. Its local cuisine, with dishes such as Biscayan cod, offers an authentic and delicious culinary experience.

Zumarraga, in the Basque Country, is a charming destination for nature and gastronomy lovers. Enjoy its mountains, its historical heritage and its Basque cuisine, famous for its pintxos, cider and fresh seafood dishes.