Just 20km across the border from France on Spain’s unspoilt northern coast lies the elegant town of San Sebastián, capital of Spain’s smallest province, Guipuzcoa. Once a small fishing port from which vessels catching whales and cod set sail, San Sebastián nestles in a stunning bay surrounded by lush green mountains. With three glorious beaches, San Sebastián enjoys a thriving summer season yet it is a tasteful resort with a gorgeous old quarter where the narrow streets are crammed with quaint bars and restaurants. The town’s other attractions include the naval museum, aquarium and Santa Clara island, San Sebastián’s fourth beach in the summer, when a ferry takes visitors there.
We particularly recommend this destination for groups with a high level of performance as there are many opportunities for them to perform in prestigious venues and events. Choirs of the highest quality will relish the chance to perform in Buen Pastor cathedral, where the organ is considered to be one of the greatest in Europe. All types of band will enjoy performing in the various towns beyond, including Lekeitio bandstand and San Sebastián Gernika-Lumo theatre.
Sample itinerary (orchestra)Day 1 - Depart in afternoon for evening ferry and overnight travel Day Two - Afternoon arrival in resort. Remainder of afternoon free for relaxation and exploration of Cestona Day Three - Morning visit to San Sebastián. Explore the Old Quarter and visit the Aquarium Afternoon visit to the Santuario de Loyola and evening concert. Return to Cestona Day Four - Full day visit to Bilbao. Visit the Old Town with Santiago cathedral at its heart, and shop on the famous Gran Via. A ‘must’ visit is the futuristic Guggenheim Museum. Return to San Sebastian for concert as part of the Quincena Musical festival Day Five - Morning boat trip to Isla Santa Clara. Afternoon on one of San Sebastian’s glorious beaches. Evening concert at the church of Santa Maria Day Six - Morning at leisure in Cestona, Afternoon departure for overnight travel Day seven - Morning Channel crossing and afternoon arrival home |
Boat trip: possible along the coast as well as to the island of Santa Clara.
Bilbao: visit the excellent Guggenheim museum.
Pamplona: beautiful town famous for its ‘Sanfermines’ (6-14 July) when nightly bullfights and the running of the bulls takes place.
Or you can try your hand at the traditional Basque games of La Pelota and Cesta.
The pretty coastal resort of Plentzia lies some 15km from Bilbao and 100km from San Sebastian. There is an excellent modern youth hostel here, located in the town centre which offers very comfortable accommodation for our groups. The hostel is divided into two parts; our groups are placed in the smaller part, where rooms are mainly 2 bedded and all rooms have private facilities. Facilities at the hostel include TV and video room, larger restaurant, garden and café.
Excellent jazz groups can take part in the San Sebastián Jazz Festival, which takes place every July. Youth orchestras can take part in the Quincena Musical, a professional music festival in the city which takes place in August.