1- Bike on the Right Bank
🚴♂️ Biking from Bilbao to Getxo’s Old Port: The Ultimate Riverside Ride
Looking for a beautiful, easy bike ride in Bilbao? Cycling from Bilbao to Getxo’s Old Port (Puerto Viejo de Algorta) is the perfect way to explore Bilbao’s waterfront and coastal charm. This scenic route along the right bank of the Nervión River is flat, beginner-friendly, and packed with must-see sights. Whether you’re a local or visiting Bilbao, this ride offers a unique perspective of the city, history, and Basque culture.
📍 Route Overview
✅ Distance: ~13 km
✅ Duration: 1-1.5 hours (one way)
✅ Difficulty: Easy – mostly bike lanes and flat paths
✅ Best for: Casual cyclists, families, and tourists looking for a relaxed ride
🚴 Highlights Along the Right Bank
1️⃣ Start at BILKE – Pick up your bike in Bilbao city center, just minutes from the Guggenheim Museum.
2️⃣ Ride Along the Nervión River – Enjoy a smooth path past modern landmarks like the Euskalduna Palace and the Zubizuri Bridge.
3️⃣ Pass Through Deusto & Sarriko – These lively districts offer great local cafés and parks for a quick break.
4️⃣ Explore Getxo’s Marina & Beach Promenade – As you enter Getxo, cycle along the beautiful Ereaga Beach, where you can stop for a coffee or even a quick swim!
5️⃣ Arrive at Puerto Viejo de Algorta – This charming old fishing port is one of the most picturesque spots in Getxo. Explore its narrow streets, colorful houses, and authentic Basque taverns. Don’t miss trying traditional pintxos with a glass of txakoli wine!
2- Loop around the River
🔄 Bilbao to Getxo Loop: A Full Riverside Cycling Adventure
Want to see both sides of Bilbao’s riverfront? This loop ride takes you from Bilbao to Getxo via the left bank, crossing through Portugalete before returning along the right bank. It’s the perfect mix of history, industrial heritage, and stunning coastal views!
📍 Route Overview
✅ Distance: ~25 km
✅ Duration: 2.5-3 hours
✅ Difficulty: Moderate – some gentle hills but mostly easy terrain
✅ Best for: Adventure cyclists, history lovers, and those wanting a longer ride
🚴 Route Highlights
1️⃣ Start at BILKE – Pick up your bike and follow the Nervión River toward Zorrozaurre, Bilbao’s up-and-coming creative district.
2️⃣ Explore the Left Bank – Cycle through Barakaldo and Sestao, areas known for their industrial heritage and transformation.
3️⃣ Arrive in Portugalete – This historic riverside town is home to the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take the transporter bridge to cross the river with your bike!
4️⃣ Ride Along Getxo’s Promenade – Once on the right bank, cycle through the elegant streets of Getxo, past Ereaga Beach and its stunning coastal views.
5️⃣ Return to Bilbao – Follow the same riverside path back to the city, stopping at any of the local cafés and parks along the way.
🔄 Why This Loop is a Must-Do
✅ See both sides of the river – Experience the contrast between Bilbao’s modern right bank and the historic left bank.
✅ Visit the Vizcaya Bridge – One of the most famous landmarks in the Basque Country.
✅ Perfect for history lovers – Explore Bilbao’s maritime and industrial heritage while enjoying a scenic and active day.
3- Bike to Getxo Lighthouse
📍 Route Overview
✅ Distance: ~16 km
✅ Duration: 1.5-2 hours
✅ Difficulty: Moderate – mostly flat but a gentle climb to the lighthouse
✅ Best for: Scenic riders, nature lovers, and photographers
🚴 Route Highlights
1️⃣ Start in Bilbao & Follow the Nervión River – Enjoy a bike-friendly path past the Guggenheim, Deusto, and Getxo’s stunning promenade.
2️⃣ Stop at Ereaga Beach – Take a break at one of Getxo’s most famous beaches, where you can grab a coffee or enjoy the view.
3️⃣ Climb to La Galea Cliffs – The final stretch takes you along the coastline, with spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea.
4️⃣ Reach La Galea Lighthouse – This historic 18th-century lighthouse is the perfect place to rest, take photos, and soak in the Basque coastal beauty.
Why This Ride is Special
✅ Breathtaking coastal views – Ride along the cliffs and beaches of Getxo.
✅ Perfect mix of city & nature – Start in Bilbao’s urban center and finish in pure coastal beauty.
✅ Great for photography – Capture some of the most scenic landscapes near Bilbao!
