{"id":37470,"date":"2025-06-24T15:15:32","date_gmt":"2025-06-24T13:15:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/niet-gecategoriseerd\/discover-vitoria-gasteiz-the-green-capital-of-the-basque-country\/"},"modified":"2026-06-25T16:30:35","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T14:30:35","slug":"discover-vitoria-gasteiz-the-green-capital-of-the-basque-country","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/spain\/basque-country\/discover-vitoria-gasteiz-the-green-capital-of-the-basque-country\/","title":{"rendered":"Discover Vitoria-Gasteiz: the green capital of the Basque Country"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vitoria-Gasteiz, the authentic and green capital of the Basque Country<\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vitoria-Gasteiz may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the Basque Country in northern Spain. But this green city, full of charm, history, and pintxos, surprised me in every way.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Ontdek groen Vitoria-Gasteiz - hoofdstad Baskenland #basque #vitoriagasteiz\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/kBmp6j3Zm_w?feature=oembed\"  allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I visited Vitoria-Gasteiz, the somewhat lesser-known capital of the Spanish Basque Country, in June. San Sebasti\u00e1n and Bilbao are the better-known cities in this region, but the \u201cgreen capital\u201d is relatively unknown. And what a surprise. The city isn\u2019t a tourist magnet, but that\u2019s precisely what makes it so authentic. It\u2019s a place where nature, culture, and gastronomy come together in perfect harmony.    <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Green and Authentic Vitoria-Gasteiz<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The landscape is both hilly and expansive. And, because it rains regularly here, it\u2019s green\u2014very green. I had beautiful weather in June, by the way. The locals speak both Spanish and Basque, and you\u2019ll see both languages on the signs as well. Not many people speak English yet, but they\u2019re friendly and helpful, so you can get by just fine with gestures and body language.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22439\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dinner-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Dinner\" class=\"wp-image-22439\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22467\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Park-centrum-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Downtown Park\" class=\"wp-image-22467\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22447\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Locals-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - small shop  \" class=\"wp-image-22447\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Casco Viejo &amp; Medieval Charm<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vitoria\u2019s charm lies in its blend of medieval tranquility and modern surprises. \u201cCasco Viejo,\u201d the old town, is situated on a hill and can be reached via\u2026 escalators! It\u2019s quite remarkable to see modern architecture nestled among centuries-old stones.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A small section of the 11th-century city wall still stands. Within the walls lies the old town, \u201cLa Almendra Medieval\u201d (the medieval almond). Here, the old and the new come together: the neighborhood is a maze of narrow streets and hidden squares.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22470\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Plaza-de-Espana-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Plaza de Espa&#xF1;a - a glimpse\" class=\"wp-image-22470\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"22479\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Uitzicht-Santa-Maria-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Santa Maria Viewpoint\" class=\"wp-image-22479\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Uitzicht-Santa-Maria-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Uitzicht-Santa-Maria-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Uitzicht-Santa-Maria-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22475\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Santa-Maria-Cathedral-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Santa Maria Cathedral - interior\" class=\"wp-image-22475\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the highlights is the Santa Maria Cathedral. You literally step back in time on the underground tour, which ends with a ride in the elevator to the rooftop terrace\u2014offering panoramic views that are simply magical at sunset. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There&#8217;s a market at the Plaza de Espa\u00f1a every Sunday. It&#8217;s also a great place to shop, with lots of local shops and designers.   <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Museum Recommendations in Vitoria-Gasteiz<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Fine Arts Museum features Spanish\u2014and especially Basque\u2014art from the 18th to the 20th century. It is housed in a beautiful mansion. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bibat: a two-in-one museum combining playing cards and archaeology.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centro Cultural Montehermoso: a historic building featuring (temporary) modern exhibitions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22432\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Fine-Arts-museum-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Fine Arts Museum\" class=\"wp-image-22432\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22433\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Speelkaarten-museum-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Playing Card Museum\" class=\"wp-image-22433\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hiking and Biking Along the Green Ring (Anillo Verde)<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vitoria-Gasteiz was named the European Green Capital in 2012\u2014and rightly so. The city has a lot of green space. Even the convention center is covered in greenery.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22468\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Park-in-centrum-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Park in the city center\" class=\"wp-image-22468\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22482\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Vitoria-Gasteiz2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22482\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22456\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/MMHK_7214-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz Convention Center&#x2014;Green Exterior\" class=\"wp-image-22456\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition, the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vitoria-gasteiz.org\/wb021\/was\/contenidoAction.do?idioma=en&amp;uid=u_1e8934a8_12e47a4954c__7ffd\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.vitoria-gasteiz.org\/wb021\/was\/contenidoAction.do?idioma=en&amp;uid=u_1e8934a8_12e47a4954c__7ffd\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u201cGreen Ring\u201d<\/a> encircles the city via walking and biking trails. It is a network of six Nature reserves, connected by biking and walking trails. The trails are mostly flat and marked with wooden posts bearing green dots. The entire network is about 30 km long.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I highly recommend visiting the Salburua Wetlands park and marshland area, east of the city. I cycled through it. The forests are full of oaks, beeches, and pines. You can also spot wild boars, birds of prey, and roe deer. For birdwatchers, there are observation huts. Don\u2019t forget your binoculars! The route is 11 km long.      <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Observatiehutten-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Salburua Wetlands Observation Hut\" class=\"wp-image-22463\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Observatiehutten-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Observatiehutten-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Observatiehutten-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can get here by bike from Vitoria-Gasteiz. You can explore the park on foot or by bike. If you don&#8217;t have a bike, take the tram, which stops near the park.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: Rent an e-bike from <strong>Guiartu<\/strong>, run by Arturo Martinez\u2014great service and easy to arrange. You can also take the tram to the starting point. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22474\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Salburua-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz-Salburua\" class=\"wp-image-22474\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22457\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/MMHK_7246-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Green Belt - Salburua Wetlands\" class=\"wp-image-22457\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22458\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/MMHK_7270-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Green Belt - Cycling\" class=\"wp-image-22458\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Culinary Delight: Pintxos &amp; Rioja<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the Basque Country, eating is a celebration. Start the evening with pintxos\u2014small bites on baguette slices\u2014served in small bars alongside local wines and cider. Ingredients like anchovies, squid ink, grilled meat, seafood, and creamy cheesecake are favorites.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22451\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Lunch3-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Lunch\" class=\"wp-image-22451\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22469\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Pintxos-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Pintxos\" class=\"wp-image-22469\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22440\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/El-Portalon-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - El Portalon\" class=\"wp-image-22440\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both in the afternoon and in the evening, locals gather together in a cozy atmosphere, enjoying a glass of Rioja wine. La Rioja, specifically the northern part known as Rioja Alavesa, borders the Basque Country. This lends a unique Basque character to the wine experience. Cider is also widely consumed there. It is an important cultural and culinary product. This (low-alcohol) beverage is made from apples.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Places to Have Lunch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Casa Vieja<\/strong> \u2013 right in the heart of Casco Viejo<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>La Casa del Patr\u00f3n<\/strong> in Murgia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Klandestino<\/strong> in Vitoria-Gasteiz<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Places to Dine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Saburdi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sukalki<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>El Portal\u00f3n<\/strong> (a chic restaurant in a medieval building)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gorbeia Nature Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gorbeiaeuskadi.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.gorbeiaeuskadi.com\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gorbeia Nature Park<\/a><\/strong> is the largest nature park in the Basque Country. It\u2019s located about 20 km northwest of Vitoria. The easiest way to get there is by car. There are several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22478\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Uitzicht-route-9-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Gorbeia Nature Park - Scenic Route 9\" class=\"wp-image-22478\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22454\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/MMHK_7168-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - green\" class=\"wp-image-22454\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22443\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Gorbeia-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Gorbeia\" class=\"wp-image-22443\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I recommend Route 9 (5.82 km). It\u2019s a beautiful, green wooded area with stunning views. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes\u2014the trails can get a bit muddy. Tip: Wikilock\u2014an app for hiking trails.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Day Trips from Vitoria-Gasteiz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Looking for authentic experiences? From Vitoria-Gasteiz, I took three wonderful day trips that were about a half-hour drive away. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A\u00f1ana Salt Valley<\/strong>: Centuries-old salt mining, featuring wellness and tastings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22485\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Zoutvallei4-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Vitoria-Gasteiz - Salt Valley - salt pan\" class=\"wp-image-22485\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22487\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Zoutvallei6-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22487\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22483\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Zoutvallei-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22483\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Valle Salando de Anana is an active salt-mining valley. It has existed for about 7,000 years. You can book a guided tour of the valley online. They also offer workshops and salt tastings. If you\u2019re in the mood to relax, head to the wellness center to soak your feet and hands in the saltwater\u2014it\u2019s wonderful, and the view is beautiful. The salt harvested here is used by many Michelin-starred restaurants.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note: There may not always be much salt on the road; it depends on the weather conditions. So if it has rained, there won&#8217;t be much salt visible. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ollerias Pottery Studio<\/strong>: Learn pottery with Blanka G\u00f3mez, a true master of her craft.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Blanka G\u00f3mez de Segura is a leading ceramic artist from \u00c1lava and has been the director of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.euskalzeramika.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"www.euskalzeramika.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Museo de Alfareria Vasca<\/a> in Ollerias since 1993.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22437\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Blanka-Potten-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Blanka Gomez - Pottery\" class=\"wp-image-22437\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22473\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Pottery-factory-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Museo de Alfareria Vasca - Pottery Museum\" class=\"wp-image-22473\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to visiting the museum, you can take a ceramics workshop or class. In her studio, Blanka is working on new pieces. You can also purchase them. Blanka explores clay materials, historical glazes, and decorative techniques; she revives old forms and reproduces archaeological pieces.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fun fact: This is the only potter&#8217;s workshop still in operation in the Basque countryside, with centuries-old kilns.<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Iruri Cheese Farm<\/strong>: Meet the sheep, taste homemade sheep&#8217;s cheese, and experience Basque farm life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cheese lovers will enjoy a visit to Iruri in Legutio. Maider and her husband work together on the farm. They have over 100 sheep.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22446\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kaas-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Iruri Cheese Farm - cheese in the freezer\" class=\"wp-image-22446\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22453\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/MMHK_7124-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Iruri Cheese Farm - Cheese Tasting\" class=\"wp-image-22453\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22445\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IRURI-kaas-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Iruri Cheese Farm - Iruri Cheese\" class=\"wp-image-22445\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maider attended sheep farming school to learn the trade. Cheese-making begins with milking the sheep. Once the cheese is made, it is stored in the freezer for about two months. You can also buy cheese here. Many locals shop here, as do many restaurants. In addition to cheese, they also sell meat and honey.     <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Atmosphere and Events<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes Vitoria-Gasteiz so special is its balance. You have peace and nature, but also culture and a vibrant atmosphere. The squares come alive in the evening, people greet you on the street, and you can still count the tourists on one hand. Here, you truly live among the locals.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cultural festivals:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Jazz Festival:<\/strong> July 14\u201319, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fiestas de la Virgen Blanca:<\/strong> August 4\u20139, 2025<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The name Vitoria-Gasteiz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vitoria, also known as \u201cNueva Victoria,\u201d was founded in 1181 on the site of an older settlement called Gasteiz. Gasteiz was a small, medieval Basque village. It was located on the hill where the old town,<strong>\u201cCasco Viejo<\/strong>,\u201d now stands.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today, <strong>Vitoria-Gasteiz<\/strong> is the official name, reflecting its dual cultural and historical heritage. Spanish speakers often use the name Vitoria, while Basque speakers use the name Gasteiz. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vitoria-Gasteiz, Sustainable Public Transportation<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public transportation in Vitoria-Gasteiz is well organized. It is focused on sustainability and accessibility. The trams are fully electric, as are most of the buses. They produce no direct emissions and are very quiet.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can take the bus to travel to surrounding areas. You can buy a single-ride ticket or a BAT Card. This is a type of discounted public transit pass for the whole family (up to 10 people); you can recharge it at vending machines. The pass can be used until the balance runs out and is valid for both trams and buses.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Green Cities tip: There is a train connection between San Sebasti\u00e1n and Vitoria-Gasteiz.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public transportation in Vitoria-Gasteiz is fully electric: trams and buses are emission-free.  <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do you get to Vitoria-Gasteiz?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the Netherlands, it\u2019s about 1,380 km to Vitoria-Gasteiz. You can also fly to Bilbao. From Bilbao, you can reach the heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz (\u00c1lava province) in an hour. There\u2019s also a bus service from Bilbao. Soon, you\u2019ll be able to travel there by train as well, thanks to a new rail line.      <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Stay \u2013 Tip: Hotel Nirea<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A centrally located hotel with spacious, bright rooms and nice bathrooms. Welcoming and friendly. Every morning, you can enjoy breakfast at the caf\u00e9 next to the hotel\u2014a smart and comfortable way to start the day.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Smart Travel Tips<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bring an umbrella\u2014it\u2019s not green for nothing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download Wikiloc (Route 9) for hiking inspiration around Gorbeia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use the tram + BAT card for a sustainable stay<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go on a pintxos tour: from 7:00\u20139:00 p.m., followed by dinner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Vitoria-Gasteiz?<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sustainable<\/strong>: European Green Capital (2012) with clean energy and green infrastructure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Authentic<\/strong>: no mass tourism yet, pure Basque life and hospitality<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A city that offers <strong>a variety of experiences<\/strong>: history, nature, creativity, fine dining, and cultural gems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vitoria Gasteiz is the perfect destination if you love conscious travel, authenticity, and a touch of adventure. A place that slowly but surely steals your heart\u2014welcome to the green Basque Country. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read more about other <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/category\/sustainable-city-break\/\" data-type=\"category\" data-id=\"72\">eco-friendly city trips<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vitoria-Gasteiz on the map<\/h2>\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1XpBXArn2S3mgC2mgIBTAlNkLRJTF6kA&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Vitoria-Gasteiz, the authentic and green capital of the Basque Country Vitoria-Gasteiz may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the Basque Country in northern Spain. But this green city, full of charm, history, and pintxos, surprised me in every way. I visited Vitoria-Gasteiz, the somewhat lesser-known capital of the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":28,"featured_media":37472,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[316,216,237,213],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-37470","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-basque-country","category-sustainable-city-break","category-spain","category-green-travel-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37470","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/28"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37470"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37470\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37472"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37470"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37470"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37470"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}