After a sleep in, made our own brekkie and once Roey had sorted out some banking issues we walked into the old town area in time for our 11 am walking tour. Had time for a phone chat with Grandma for her birthday and a quick coffee on the Boulevard. Our guide for the two hour journey, Inglio, was exceptional. We learnt so much, not
just about the history of San Sebastián but also the Basque people, their language and culture. Very interesting. I was under the impression that Donostia was an area of San Sebastián... but it is
actually the Basque name of the city. From the Boulevard, we covered the market area (La Brexta) then such fascinating sights as Constitucion Square (once used as a bull ring); 31 Agosto Street with its original building still standing after a fire in 1813 and adjacent pelota court (similar to racket ball or squash); San Vicente church; the Basilica of Santa Maria and San Telmo museum which was once a Dominican convent (the cloisters are still in tact but a modern building has been added).
A great tour with some added insights into the concept of the Pintxos bars
- quite a unique way of eating and socialising.... not to mention delicious. He also explained about the vast number of gastronomic society venues ... basically private clubs.
At the conclusion we had our baguette and cheese we had brought then parted company with Roey and made the trek up to Mount Urgull at the end of La Concha beach and marina area. At the top we finally reached Sagrado Corazon (Sacred Heart) - an amazing vantage point to look over all of San Sebastián and it’s three beaches. Well worth the climb!
Once back down Raym headed back and I wandered some more back through the old town, the markets and past the spectacular bridges over the Urumea river. Following our host Pat’s recommendation I went to the top of the Cultural Centre (a converted tobacco factory) for more views over the river and town.
We chilled in the apartment for a while, made some plans then headed out for more Pintxos and drinks in the Gros area, recommended earlier by Inglio. Certainly didn’t disappoint! Very weary after a big day!