A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Gorliz: A Coastal Paradise in the Heart of Bizkaia

Introduction

Gorliz is a charming coastal town located in the Uribe region, in the province of Bizkaia, in the Basque Country, Spain. Known for its impressive natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Gorliz is a tourist destination that offers something for everyone.

Gorliz Beach

Gorliz Beach is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of the place. This extensive fine sand beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk along the coast. In addition, the beach has several facilities, including picnic areas, showers, and water sports equipment rental services.

Gorliz Lighthouse

The Gorliz Lighthouse, built in 1990, is another point of interest in the town. Located on Cape Bilano and surrounded by a beautiful park, the lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surroundings. The lighthouse also houses an interpretation center that provides information about the history and importance of this iconic building.

Gorliz Natural Park

For nature lovers, the Gorliz Natural Park is a must-visit. This extensive park offers a wide variety of trails for walking and cycling, as well as picnic areas and viewpoints from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the coast and the surrounding countryside.

Church of San Salvador

The Church of San Salvador is an important historical monument in Gorliz. Built in the 16th century, this late Gothic-style church features an impressive main altarpiece and several valuable religious works of art. The church is open to the public and guided tours are offered.

Local Cuisine

Cuisine is an integral part of Basque culture, and Gorliz is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, including fresh seafood, pintxos (Basque tapas), and txakoli, a slightly sparkling white wine that is typical of the region. There are numerous restaurants and bars in Gorliz where you can enjoy these delicious dishes.

Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Gorliz hosts a series of events and festivals that celebrate the rich culture and traditions of the region. These include the Fiesta de San Juan, a celebration of the summer solstice with bonfires and traditional dances, and the Semana Grande, a week of parties and events that include concerts, sports competitions, and fireworks.

Gastronomic Products of Gorliz

• Pintxos

  Pintxos are a specialty of the Basque Country region and you can't miss trying them in Gorliz. They are small portions of food served in bars and restaurants, usually accompanied by a drink. Pintxos can be of many types, from potato omelette to seafood, and are an excellent way to taste a variety of local flavors.

• Cantabrian Sea Seafood

  Given its coastal location, Gorliz is an ideal place to enjoy fresh seafood from the Cantabrian Sea. Local restaurants offer a wide variety of seafood dishes, including clams, mussels, prawns, and octopus. The seafood is caught daily and served fresh, ensuring its quality and taste.

• Idiazabal Cheese

  Idiazabal cheese is a typical product of the Basque Country region. This cheese is made with sheep's milk and has an intense and slightly spicy flavor. In Gorliz, you can find this cheese in local shops and in many restaurant dishes.

• Basque Cider

  Cider is a traditional drink in the Basque Country and is very popular in Gorliz. It is made from local apples and has a refreshing and slightly acidic taste. Cider is usually served in cider houses, where it can be tasted directly from the barrel.

Sports Activities in Gorliz (Bizkaia)

Surfing

Gorliz has one of the most popular beaches for surfing in Bizkaia. Whether you're an experienced surfer or just starting out, you'll find waves to suit you.

Hiking

The Gorliz area offers numerous hiking routes to enjoy nature and panoramic views. One of the most popular is the one that leads to the Gorliz Lighthouse.

Cycling

The natural environment of Gorliz is ideal for cycling enthusiasts. There are numerous routes that run through the surroundings of the municipality, both for mountain biking and road cycling.

Water Sports

In addition to surfing, other water sports such as paddle surfing, kayaking or sailing can be practiced in Gorliz. Gorliz beach has a nautical club where you can rent equipment and take lessons.

Places near Gorliz

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

Plentzia, a charming Basque coastal village, offers beautiful beaches and a rich cuisine based on fresh seafood. Enjoy pintxos in its bars and restaurants, while admiring the traditional architecture and stunning sea views.

Bermeo, a charming Basque fishing village, offers a unique tourist experience with its picturesque seascapes, historic architecture and exquisite cuisine based on fresh seafood, pintxos and the famous Txakoli wine.

Bakio, a charming coastal village in the Basque Country, Spain, is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant surf culture, and local wine, the txakoli. Visitors can enjoy delicious fresh seafood in its numerous restaurants and bars.