A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Sodupe: A Hidden Charm in Bizkaia, Spain

Sodupe, also known as Gordexola, is a small town located in the province of Bizkaia, in the autonomous community of the Basque Country, Spain. Although it is a small place, Sodupe is a treasure full of charm and natural beauty, with a rich history and a vibrant culture that attracts visitors from all over.

History and Culture

Sodupe is known for its rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages. The town is full of historic buildings, such as the Church of San Juan Bautista, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. There is also the Salazar Tower House, a medieval fortress that has been restored and converted into a cultural center.

Nature and Landscapes

Sodupe is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The Kadagua River runs through the town, and there are numerous hiking and cycling routes that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. The Gorbeia Natural Park, one of the largest in the Basque Country, is a short drive away and offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and climbing to bird watching and picnicking.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is an integral part of Basque culture, and Sodupe is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, including cod a la vizcaína, Spanish omelette, and txakoli, a light and refreshing white wine. There are several restaurants and bars in the town that offer these and other delicious dishes.

Festivals and Events

Sodupe is famous for its festivals and events, which attract visitors from all over the region. The patron saint festivities of San Juan Bautista in June and the San Martin Fair in November are particularly popular. These events offer an excellent opportunity to experience Basque culture, with music, dance, traditional games and, of course, food and drink.

Conclusion

In summary, Sodupe is a charming and lively tourist destination. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, delicious gastronomy, and vibrant festivals and events, there is something for everyone in this little corner of Bizkaia. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway in nature or an immersion in Basque culture, Sodupe is a place not to be missed.

Gastronomic Products of Sodupe

Idiazabal Cheese

Sodupe, being located in the region of Bizkaia, is a producing area of the famous Idiazabal cheese. This cheese is made with sheep's milk from the Latxa and Carranzana breeds and has a Protected Designation of Origin. It is known for its intense and slightly spicy flavor.
Cider

Although cider is more known in the region of Guipúzcoa, it is also produced in Bizkaia. In Sodupe, you can find cider houses where this drink is made in a traditional way. Basque cider is characterized by being natural and is served by pouring it from a certain height to acquire gas.
Garden Products

Sodupe, being located in a valley, has a rich production of garden products. Beans, peppers, tomatoes, and lettuces stand out. Many restaurants in the area offer dishes made with these fresh and seasonal products.
Beef

Beef is another of the outstanding products of Sodupe. In this area, native breeds such as the Pyrenean are raised, which is characterized by its juicy and high-quality meat. It can be enjoyed in the form of chops, steaks, or stews.

Outstanding Gastronomic Places in Sodupe

Sodupe, in the province of Bizkaia, is a place where tradition and modernity come together to offer a unique gastronomic experience. Here we present some of the most outstanding places to enjoy local cuisine:

El Molino Restaurant

The El Molino Restaurant is an emblematic place in Sodupe. Known for its traditional Basque cuisine, this restaurant offers dishes such as Biscayan cod, hake in green sauce and grilled T-bone steak. The rustic and cozy atmosphere, along with its excellent service, make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.

El Txoko Tavern

The El Txoko Tavern is a charming place with good prices in Sodupe. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of pintxos and typical Basque dishes, such as cod omelette, squid rings and txangurro. In addition, its extensive wine list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of wines from the region.

Etxebarri Grill

A few kilometers from Sodupe is the Etxebarri Grill, one of the best restaurants in the world. This grill is famous for its charcoal cooking, where each dish is a true work of culinary art. Here you can taste from a simple steak to more sophisticated dishes like grilled lobster. Although the price is higher than in other places, the gastronomic experience it offers is unmatched.

Sport Activities in Sodupe, Bizkaia

Hiking

Sodupe is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal place for hiking. You can explore routes such as the Monte Ganekogorta or the Gorbeia Natural Park.

Mountain Biking

The hills and mountains surrounding Sodupe offer exciting routes for mountain biking. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy nature while practicing this sport.

Fishing

The Cadagua River, which runs through Sodupe, is a popular place for fishing. Here you can try to catch trout and enjoy a peaceful day by the river.

Football

Sodupe has a local football team, the Sodupe UC, and several football fields. If you're a fan of this sport, you can watch a match or even join a friendly game.

Places near Sodupe

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

Güeñes

Güeñes, in the Basque Country, is a charming destination for nature and gastronomy lovers. Enjoy its green landscapes, its rich history and don't miss the opportunity to try its exquisite Basque cuisine.

Balmaseda

Balmaseda, in the Basque Country, is a historical gem with medieval charm. It stands out for its gastronomy, especially the bean stew and the chocolate with churros, and events such as the Medieval Fair and the San Martin Fair.

Zalla

Zalla, in the heart of the Encartaciones of Bizkaia, Spain, is an ideal tourist destination for nature and gastronomy lovers. It offers stunning green landscapes, hiking routes and a rich traditional Basque cuisine.