Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

Highlights

  • • UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
  • • Mundaka left-hand wave — world-class surf
  • • Over 250 bird species
  • • Gernika: Assembly House and Tree
  • • Santimamiñe caves with rock art

Description

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protecting the Oka river estuary between Bermeo, Mundaka and Gernika. Marshes, holm oak forests, cliffs and beaches form a natural mosaic hosting over 250 bird species. Mundaka's left-hand wave, a world surfing reference, breaks at the estuary mouth. Gernika preserves the Assembly House and the Tree, symbol of Basque charters.

Guide

Essential information for visiting Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

Location

How to get there

By carBy public transport

In this area

MundakaMunicipio
Planning Information

Visitor Tips

Urdaibai Bird Center interpretation centre in Gautegiz-Arteaga. Best birding season: autumn and winter (migration). Mundaka has the best wave in October-November. Gernika: visit the Assembly House (free). Santimamiñe caves require booking.

Historical Facts

Declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1984. Gernika was bombed on 26 April 1937 during the Civil War, inspiring Picasso's famous painting. Santimamiñe caves contain 14,000-year-old rock paintings.