Things to Do in Algorta: Exploring a Culturally Rich Old Port Town
When touring around the Basque Country, you have to stop at Algorta, if not for an overnight stay, at least for a full day.
This culturally rich old port town promises a wealth of experiences that is unique to its geographic location and history. As a seafarer’s town in the municipality of Getxo, dating back to the 17th century, Algorta is popular among sealovers, foodies and tourists who like to revel in heritage stone houses, charming town squares, fresh caught sardines, and pintxos with wine.
Thus, in the heart of this bohemian pocket in the long Ereaga Beach, you can maximize a day strolling along cobblestone paths while eating ice cream or enjoying aperitif and pintxos at the staircase parapet of Riberamune where you can also savor the refreshing ocean breeze.
To give you a better idea, here is a list of 7 Things to Do in Algorta, Spain:
Capture Arrantzale and Sardinera
Have your picture taken next to the sculptures of Arrantzale and Sardinera near the staircase at Riberamune where the Lemans or sea experts can monitor the activities near the shore. These iconic art pieces portray the town’s primitive professions: the fisherman, which was sculpted by Bilbao-born artist José Luis F. Butrón, and the sardine seller, by Getxo painter and sculptor, Luis María Íñiguez Paillole.
Visit the Old hermitage of San Nicolás
Whilst the central apse is what remains of this building, you can still feel the quintessential quality as to why the Brotherhood of Seafarers of San Nicolas de Algorta used to hold their first meetings here in 1634. Now even as it has turned into a private house, this heritage building still welcomes culture enthusiasts who want to catch a glimpse of this very important structure in Algorta.
Chill out at Arrantzale Square
Have a meal or some pintxos (Spanish-style open sandwiches) with sparkling white wine at Arrantzale Taverna’s al fresco dining amid lush trees and romantic streetlamps.
Stay in the 17th century Etxetxu Ankora.
Considered as the oldest structure in Algorta, circa 1612, this homely structure was used to house the town’s important organizations. It was the Getxo Town Hall in the 19th century, the headquarters of the Fishermen’s Guild and Pilotage School for the Lemanes sailors, the location of a handful of Spanish films, and the place where the infamous Kalimotxo (wine and cola) cocktail was conceived in 1972. Now, tourists can experience the ultimate Algorta lifestyle in this old house, which boasts a splendid panorama of the Getxo coast from every corner.
Enjoy some pintxos and aperitif at Riberamune
Celebrate Algorta’s history by sitting at the staircase of Riberamune overlooking the beautiful seascape of Getxco. While this area used to be the meeting point of seafarers, as well as a look-out point for vessels passing toward Puerto Viejo, the old port, it is now a hang-out for people who want to relax under the sun over some aperitif, pintxos (bread topped with tapas) and banderillas (skewered tapas) offered by the nearby tavern.
Take a historical walk along cobblestone paths.
Just by strolling along Algorta’s old cobblestone roads is an experience in itself. This affords an exhibition of the town’s 17th and 18th-century architecture, which is highlighted by balconies adorned with flowers and vines and family emblems etched into its ancient stone walls.
Have fun on the beach.
Ereaga Beach has 800 meters of fine sand that is idyllic for beach sports, such as volleyball, running, and football. It is even highly likely to catch a football tournament on the beach daily.
So, if you want to explore Algorta, just get on the Renfe-Bilbao railway and stop at Algorta. You will find this quaint historic port just a few steps away.
Algorta Travel and Tour Packages
Check out our list of affordable Algorta hotels and resorts via Agoda and Booking, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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