Zumaia Flysch & Itzurun Beach - Sunny Morning - Bali
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Zumaia Flysch & Itzurun Beach

4.7
·3k reviews·Zumaia, Spain

Dramatic coastal cliffs and unique striated rock formations, famous as a Game of Thrones filming location.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide periods

Exposes the unique Flysch formations

CrowdMedium
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Zumaia Flysch & Itzurun Beach - Sunny Morning - Bali

Zumaia Flysch & Itzurun Beach

Best Time

Low tide periods

Exposes the unique Flysch formations

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic coastal cliffs and unique striated rock formations, famous as a Game of Thrones filming location.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"The most amazing beach! The rock formations are so unique and as the tide and sun changes so do all the hidden treasures it unveils."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

The Flysch is best seen at low tide. Consult tide charts before you go to avoid disappointment.

Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Trails can be hilly and muddy, especially outside of summer. Good grip is essential for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Striking Flysch Formations

The Striking Flysch Formations

Itzurun Beach

Witness millions of years of geological history etched into dramatic, striated cliffs. Visible at low tide, these rock layers are a natural wonder.

Itzurun Beach

Itzurun Beach

Zumaia

A stunning inlet beach backed by dramatic cliffs, famous for its unique rock formations and powerful waves.

Game of Thrones Filming Location

Game of Thrones Filming Location

Itzurun Beach

Explore the dramatic cliffs that served as the filming location for Dragonstone in Game of Thrones.

San Telmo Hermitage Viewpoint

San Telmo Hermitage Viewpoint

Above Itzurun Beach

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the coast and the Flysch from this picturesque hermitage.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Key

To truly appreciate the unique striated rocks of the Flysch, plan your visit during low tide. This is when the geological formations are most exposed and accessible, revealing hidden caves and intricate patterns. Check tide charts beforehand to maximize your experience.

Game of Thrones & Hiking Prep

Zumaia's Itzurun Beach is a filming location for Game of Thrones, adding a layer of fantasy to its dramatic cliffs. For hikers, be prepared for hilly, potentially muddy trails, especially outside of summer. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the rugged terrain.

Best Times

When
Low tide periods
Why
Exposes the unique Flysch formations
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays outside peak season
Why
Avoid weekend crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

La Ruta de los Flysch la ruta mas bonita qie he hecho hasta 💙 #viajar #travel #naturaleza #mar #senderismo #montaña #animals
@rays.na
11.7K likes • 284.9K views

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

The Flysch is best seen at low tide. Consult tide charts before you go to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Trails can be hilly and muddy, especially outside of summer. Good grip is essential for exploring. Reddit

📍Ruta de los Acantilados entre Zumaia y Deva ⛰️🌊 ✅Tramo desde Zumaia hasta playa Sakoneta🥾 📎Ruta geológica de los Flysch🪨🥾 📝Los Flysch son capas profundas de materiales blandos que emergieron con la colisión pirenaica ❗️ 📚Dan lugar a este tipo de formaciones en forma de pliegues rectos que se adentran desde los acantilados hasta el fondo del mar #paisvasco #españa #flysch #artenaturaleza #zuma...
@todorutas
5.9K likes • 152.4K views
Unsere Highlights aus 2 Tagen Nordspanische Küste im Baskenland. Wir wollten so gerne das Flysch erleben an der Nordküste. Eine spezielle Felsformation. Flysch ist eine Gesteinsschichtfolge, die aus wechselnden Lagen von Sandstein und tonigem Material (Ton- oder Schluffsteine) besteht, die sich in einem tiefen Meeresbecken während einer Gebirgsbildungsphase ansammelte und dann deformiert wurde....
spots4dogs
144 likes • 544 views

Game of Thrones Fan? :tv:

This is where Dragonstone was filmed! Imagine the scenes as you explore the dramatic cliffs. TikTok

Pack a Picnic :sandwich:

Local food stands offer pies and cakes, perfect for enjoying on the beach. Reddit

“Yesterday we witnessed a very special wedding at the Flysch of Zumaia, the place René and Sergio chose to say ‘I do’. René, a true Game of Thrones enthusiast, dreamed of getting married in this unique setting, and together they traveled from Germany to make it a reality. A destination wedding in the Basque Country, filled with emotion, nature, and the magic of the sea. @naerdthrear @sergiiiuss ...
jonsantamaria_
123 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

The Flysch is best seen at low tide. Consult tide charts before you go to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Trails can be hilly and muddy, especially outside of summer. Good grip is essential for exploring. Reddit

Game of Thrones Fan? :tv:

This is where Dragonstone was filmed! Imagine the scenes as you explore the dramatic cliffs. TikTok

Pack a Picnic :sandwich:

Local food stands offer pies and cakes, perfect for enjoying on the beach. Reddit

Be Wary of the Tide :warning:

The tide can rise quickly, trapping visitors. Always be aware of your surroundings. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Zumaia's Flysch and Itzurun Beach, calling it breathtaking and magical. The unique rock formations, often compared to Dragonstone from Game of Thrones, are a major draw. While parking can be challenging and dogs are not allowed on the beach, the free access and incredible scenery make it a highly recommended destination for hikers and nature lovers.

"Stunning place. The flysch cliffs account for exceptional beauty. The place is easily acessible from Zumaia."

Vladimir Balaz

"The most amazing beach! The rock formation’s are so unique and as the tide and sun changes so do all the hidden treasures it unveils. We came for the day and wished we had spent the night. Amazing local food stand as you enter the beach with excellent meat pies, donuts and basque style cheese cake for your picnic on the beach. There is a bar on the upper part of the beach too to grab drinks and water. One of our favorite places."

Beth Bernasconi

"Breathtaking!

This is where Dragonstone was filmed in Game of Thrones. The natural beauty is impossible to describe here.

It's free to visit this beach, and free parking is available on the nearby streets - although they are very narrow and convoluted.

There are also lots of great hiking opportunities nearby - hilly, somewhat difficult and very muddy at this time (February).

We saw surfers enjoying the powerful waves.

I would come back here to hike, it's so wonderful."

Oliver Warne

What People Like

Exceptional beauty of Flysch cliffs
Unique rock formations
Game of Thrones filming location

What People Dislike

Limited parking
No dogs allowed on beach
Strong waves for swimming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Zumaia and Itzurun Beach from San Sebastián is by taking the Euskotren train. Trains run frequently from Amara Donostia Station. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Reddit

Parking directly at the beach is limited. Street parking is available on nearby streets, but these can be narrow and fill up quickly. Arrive early or consider public transport. Reddit

Yes, Itzurun Beach and the Flysch formations are easily accessible from Zumaia town. It's a pleasant walk, allowing you to soak in the coastal atmosphere. Reddit

Several bus lines connect Zumaia to other towns in the Basque Country. Check local bus schedules for routes and times if you prefer bus travel over the train. TikTok

The main Flysch route between Zumaia and Deba is about 14km and can be hilly and challenging, especially in wet conditions. Shorter walks around Itzurun Beach are more accessible. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting Itzurun Beach and exploring the Flysch formations is free of charge. You can enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fees. Reddit

As a natural geological site, there are no set opening hours. You can visit Itzurun Beach and the Flysch at any time, but low tide is crucial for viewing the formations. TikTok

The Geopark of the Basque Coast, which includes the Flysch of Zumaia, is a natural area and does not have an entrance fee for general access to the beaches and coastal paths. TikTok

While not mandatory, guided tours can offer deeper insights into the geology and history of the Flysch. Check with local tourist information for availability. TikTok

You can access the beach and surrounding areas at any time. However, to see the Flysch formations clearly, you must visit during low tide. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The best time to visit is during low tide to see the Flysch formations. For photography, early morning or late afternoon light is ideal. TikTok

No, dogs are generally not allowed on Itzurun Beach, especially during the peak season. Always check local signage for the most current regulations. Reddit

You can explore the unique rock formations, hike along the coastal paths, enjoy the beach, and even try surfing on the powerful waves. TikTokReddit

Itzurun Beach has powerful waves, making it popular with surfers. Swimming can be challenging and potentially dangerous due to strong currents. Reddit

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy. Bring layers of clothing as coastal weather can change quickly. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are local food stands near the beach entrance offering meat pies, donuts, and Basque cheesecake. A bar is also available on the upper part of the beach for drinks. Reddit

Zumaia offers delicious Basque cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. You'll find pintxos bars and restaurants serving local specialties. TikTok

Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy picnics on the beach. The local food stands are convenient for grabbing items to supplement your own food. Reddit

While seafood is prominent, many Basque restaurants offer vegetable-based pintxos and dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for options. TikTok

Dining prices in Zumaia are generally moderate, similar to other coastal towns in the Basque Country. Pintxos can be a budget-friendly way to sample various local flavors. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for dramatic photos of the Flysch and cliffs. The golden hour can create stunning contrasts. TikTok

Focus on the intricate patterns of the Flysch at low tide, the dramatic cliff faces, and the surfers catching waves. The San Telmo Hermitage also provides a great vantage point. TikTok+1

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area to avoid fines. TikTok

Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale. Shooting from different angles, including from higher up on the cliffs, can also emphasize the grandeur. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Zumaia's Itzurun Beach offers a unique adventure for families. While the powerful waves might be too strong for casual swimming, kids will be fascinated by the dramatic Flysch rock formations, which look like something from another planet. Visiting during low tide is essential to explore the accessible parts of the Flysch and discover hidden nooks. Pack a picnic from the local food stands Reddit and enjoy a day of exploration on the beach. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near the water, due to the strong currents. The Game of Thrones connection can also spark imagination for older kids. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to explore on foot, the Ruta de los Flysch is a must-do. This coastal path offers stunning views and a deep dive into the unique geology of the region. Be prepared for hilly terrain and potentially muddy conditions, so wear appropriate footwear. Reddit The 14km route between Zumaia and Deba is a significant undertaking, but shorter sections offer equally rewarding scenery. The geological significance of the Flysch, combined with the dramatic coastal landscapes, makes this a prime destination for nature lovers. TikTok+1

🎬 Film Buffs and Pop Culture Fans

If you're a fan of Game of Thrones, Zumaia's Itzurun Beach is a pilgrimage site. This is where Dragonstone was filmed, and you can walk the same dramatic cliffs seen on screen. TikTok+1 Don't forget to visit the San Telmo Hermitage, a picturesque spot featured in the Spanish film 'Ocho Apellidos Vascos'. TikTok+1 The combination of cinematic history and breathtaking natural beauty makes this a unique destination for pop culture enthusiasts.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geological Marvel: Understanding the Flysch

The Zumaia Flysch is a spectacular geological phenomenon, a testament to millions of years of Earth's history. These are not just ordinary rocks; they are layers of sedimentary material, primarily sandstone and clay, that have been compressed and uplifted over eons due to tectonic plate collisions. The distinctive, almost striped appearance comes from the alternating layers of harder sandstone and softer clay, which erode at different rates, creating the dramatic, striated cliffs and formations visible along the coast. TikTok+2

This unique geological structure makes the Zumaia Flysch a site of international scientific importance. Geologists flock here to study the Earth's past, as the rock layers provide a continuous record of environmental changes, including ancient climate shifts and even asteroid impacts. Walking along the coast, especially during low tide, is like stepping back in time, with each layer telling a story of ancient seas and dramatic geological events. TikTok+1

For visitors, understanding the Flysch adds a profound layer to the experience. It's not just a beautiful landscape; it's a living museum of natural history. The way the ocean has sculpted these layers into caves, arches, and dramatic overhangs is a constant source of awe. Remember that the Flysch is most visible and accessible during low tide, so planning your visit around the tidal cycle is crucial to fully appreciate this geological wonder. TikTok+1

Beyond the Beach: Hiking and Coastal Exploration

The coastline around Zumaia offers more than just the iconic Itzurun Beach. The Ruta de los Flysch (Flysch Route) is a popular hiking trail that stretches between Zumaia and Deba, covering approximately 14 kilometers. This path winds along the dramatic cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Flysch formations and the Cantabrian Sea. It's a fantastic way to experience the raw beauty of the Basque coast and immerse yourself in nature. TikTok+1

Be prepared for a moderately challenging hike. The terrain is hilly, and trails can be muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. Reddit Despite the potential for challenging conditions, the panoramic vistas and the sense of discovery make it a rewarding experience for hikers. Along the route, you'll encounter various viewpoints and smaller coves, each offering a unique perspective on the rugged coastline. TikTok

For those seeking a less strenuous experience, shorter walks around Itzurun Beach provide ample opportunities to admire the Flysch and the coastal scenery. You can also explore the area near the San Telmo Hermitage, which offers spectacular elevated views of the beach and the surrounding cliffs. This area is also known for its role in Spanish cinema, adding a cultural dimension to your exploration. TikTok+1

A Cinematic Landscape: Game of Thrones and More

Zumaia's dramatic coastline has captured the imagination of filmmakers, most notably as the filming location for Dragonstone in the hit series Game of Thrones. The imposing cliffs and the rugged beauty of Itzurun Beach provided the perfect backdrop for Daenerys Targaryen's ancestral home. Fans of the show often visit to recreate iconic scenes and marvel at the real-life landscape that brought Westeros to life. TikTok+2

Beyond Game of Thrones, the area's cinematic appeal extends to Spanish cinema. The San Telmo Hermitage, perched above Itzurun Beach, was famously featured in the popular Spanish comedy film 'Ocho Apellidos Vascos' (Spanish Affair). This adds another layer of cultural significance to the location, attracting visitors interested in both natural beauty and film tourism. TikTok+1

Visiting these filming locations offers a unique opportunity to connect with popular culture while experiencing the stunning natural environment. The dramatic cliffs and the powerful sea create an atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and evocative, making it easy to see why directors choose this part of the Basque Country for their productions. TikTok+1

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