The Paseo de la Galea is a journey that will take you from Sopela cliffs to Algorta. This amazing trek is worth it every step of the way. This paved walking path provides epic views of the Atlantic and the beaches below. It sits above impressive cliffs that allow for jaw dropping views.
On a clear day you can even see much of the coastline in Cantabria. This journey will take you over two hours to complete and it is worth it every step.
The Paseo de la Galea is a beautiful adventure that allows you to take in the greatness of the Basque coast. There are multiple Sopela cliffs lookouts, beaches, and places to relax while you take it all in. This takes you from the Larrabasterra station in Sopela to the Bidezabal station in Getxo. Although most of the Paseo de la Galea is in Getxo it does begin in the town of Sopela.
This walk from Larrabasterra station to Bidezabal station is roughly 10.5km and takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Realistically, this will take longer considering you’ll want to stop for photos and check out a beach or two along the way. The Paseo de la Galea itself is closer to seven kilometers but getting to and from the metro stations make up the rest of the distance.
Most of this walk is relatively flat, however, there are a few sections toward Sopela that are hilly. This trail can be done by bike or with a stroller as long as you can navigate some stairs between the Gorrondatxe Hondartza and Sopela Beach. If you are not up for the stairs or steepest sections then it would be best to start from the Getxo side and head towards the town Sopela.
Leaving Sopela
When you exit the turnstiles at Larrabasterra metro station you will want to go right towards the BI-634. At the sidewalk take another right. If you do not pass the tourism office within the first 30 seconds you went the wrong direction
Across the street from the tourism office is a paved path that goes up the hill. Cross the street and take that path to the top where you will take another right till the street dead ends. Take another left on Arriatea Etorbidea (street). Follow this road up the hill, through the roundabout and into the parking lot for Playa Sopela. Interested in exploring more of Sopela? Read the What To Do In Sopelana – Surf, Beaches, Restaurants, And More.
What To Do On The Paseo De La Galea
Mirador de La Salvaje
Above the parking lot of Playa Sopela is the Mirador de La Salvaje. This lookout above the Sopela cliffs allows you your first opportunity to see the awesomeness that is the Biscay coastline. The beaches below are large and worth exploring if you have the time. The golden sands are tempting.
Playa Sopela is one of Bilbao’s most famous surfing spots. The opposite side of the Mirador de La Salvaje is Atxabiribil Beach. It is equal to Playa Sopela in size as well as its surfing presence. There are many surfing schools in the area if you decide to abandon your hike.
Bunker de Aizkorri
Walk away from Miradaor de La Salvaje and up the hillside above the Sopela cliffs. This paved path has a consistent climb that is not dramatic but does rise about 50 meters (150 feet). During this stretch of incline there are three sets of staircases that vary from five to seven steps. These staircases are relatively easy to navigate if you have a stroller.
At the top of the hill is a good place to take a rest and look back at the coast line. You might be further amazed to see people bravely paragliding.
Around the first corner you will see the Aizkorri Bunker. It’s original purpose was to fortify the Spanish coast in the early to mid 1900s. Construction was never completed and the bunker was eventually abandoned when Spain joined the European Economic Community in 1986. Take the small trail leading off the main path if you want to enter the bunker.
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Continuing past this historical marker, you will slowly start to head down the hillside. The coastal view opens up again as you round the next curve. This time your view is southwest to see the opposite direction. On a clear day you can see the wind turbines on the Port of Bilbao’s breakwater.
Gorrondatxe Hondartza (Beach)
The walk down from the abandoned bunker is the steepest part of this path. It drops about 60 meters (200 feet) and the grade of the decline is quite challenging. This section also contains one longer staircase of approximately 20 steps. Strollers or anything else with wheels need to be handled with care.
The beach below the Sopela cliffs, Gorrondatxe Hondartza (Hondartza meaning beach), is more secluded than previous beaches. It offers fountains, bathrooms, and even showers in peak season. Instead of golden sands Gorrondatxe possess beach rock and is surrounded by cliffs and sand dunes.
Gorrondatxe Beach to Punta Galea
Walking south away from Gorrondatxe Hondartza along the Paseo de la Galea there is a straight stretch of about 800 meters (875 yards). During this portion of the trail the views are incredible and wide open. There are also a few trails off to the side that have secluded benches.
As you round the first bend in the trail and pass a brief section of bushes an expansive view opens. You can see well past the houses in Sopela all the way to the Gorliz Lighthouse.
If you look inland you will see Real Sociedad de Golf de Neguri. This golf course is one of the most exclusive courses around Bilbao. As you wrap around the course the breakwater with five wind turbines become visible. This breakwater markers the entrance into the Port of Bilbao.
As you near Punta Galea there will be a series of coves. The walls of these coves as well as the rock below are interesting and worth studying. This geological phenomenon is called flysch. Flysch are jagged layers of sedimentary rock that are very visually compelling.
Mirador del Espigon de Punta Galea
The lookout at Punta Galea is a beautiful place to take a break. Stretch out on the grass and relax as you enjoy the view. If you prefer shade, select a bench under the scattered trees. Several fountains offer a cool drink and an opportunity to refill your water bottle. Bicycle racks are available if you want to secure your bike while you stretch your legs.
The lookout itself is at a point (punta) that faces the breakwater with the wind turbines. If you’re lucky, you might see some ships passing through. Across the port you can see where the ferry from Portsmouth, UK docks. Below the look out is another smaller breakwater that marks the near side start of the port entry.
When you leave the point to continue your journey, you will see an old lighthouse. This faro is fully operational and aptly called Faro de Punta Galea (Lighthouse of Galea Point).
Aixerrota Ruta
The walk from the point to the historical windmill is known as Aixerrota Ruta. This stretch of the journey is quite straight and has a parallel path for bicycles. Just past the lighthouse a trail leads down to the breakwater below. Proceed with extreme caution if the weather is less than perfect or it’s high tide.
The Aixerrota Ruta continues above some very impressive cliffs. The views of the harbour and the suburbs of Bilbao get more impressive the further you get. On the right hand side between the path and the cliffs, you will come upon the Fuerte de la Galea. These ruins are what remain of this fort that was built in 1742.
After the ruins the path turns down hill and becomes lined with trees. This section provides welcomed shade on a hot day as well as benches for a rest. The views by this point are incredible. You can see most of Getxo, Algorta, Porteguante as well as other suburban areas. The beach up ahead is Arrigunaga Beach and is popular with the locals.
Near the end of the Aixerrota Ruta is a children’s playground and the Aixerrota windmill. This ancient windmill looks like it was built centuries ago. Constructed in 1926 it functioned for 60 years before it ceased operation.
Getting to Bidezabal
When ready to head to the subway station, you continue on the Aixerrota Ruta until it turns into the Galea Errepidea (Galea Road). Follow this road to the end and take a right on Angel Etorb. Walk about 200 meters (650 feet) until you reach a small roundabout. Take a left on Bidezabal Kalea and cross the street to Bidezabal Park. Continue down Bidezabal Kalea and the second building on your right is the Bidezabal Metro Station.
The Paseo de la Galea is a coastal adventure that is full of beautiful beaches, epic views, and much more. It is unusual to find such an incredible place offering so much. You feel so removed from the city yet subway access is close by. Travel the entire route or part of it, but do try some of the journey. This ocean side trail is a stellar excursion well worth the trip.