Bilbao - Wednesday

On Tuesday evening, it was walk to the old quarter to find some more pintxo bars.  There were many to choose from.  We followed this up with a stroll around the Guggenheim. The river and building looked good with lights.  The flower dog was not quite so bright, but still managed some snaps.

A drive to the coastal region was the order of the day for Wednesday. 

This was WOW material.  San Juan de Gaztulegatxe was once a castle, a monastery, and a refuge for wealthy Basques who were fleeing someone.

It is an amazing walk, 1.3km just to get down to sea level. Then across the walkway and up 231 steps.  After completing that it was do it again in the reverse.  It got the heart rate up that's for sure.

The view were worth it though. A stunning coast line, quite rugged, but as good a view as I have seen anywhere.  I will let the photos do the talking.

That's where we are headed.

Half way down.

Sea level.

At the top

The toilet at the top was worth a photo.  Definitely a long drop!

A view of the walk back.

We drove a little further around the coastline back toward Bilbao. Some pretty spots.  The Rock on the left is what we climbed earlier.

Even found flowering gums in the hills.

Back toward Bilbao, we headed to the mouth of the river to see a bridge from the 1800's that was built to connect the town's on either side.  It runs a gondola underneath to ferry up to 6 cars and passengers.

We took the lift to the top (60m up) and walked across (160m).

Jan was a bit like me, not really impressed with heights, but it was worth getting over that. View was great.

Caught the ferry across , about 2 mins.  A commuter ride for many.

Dinner out last night, as usual.  Restaurant meal instead of pintxo which was very nice for a change.

We left about 8 this morning for the drive to Madrid.  Got here about 12.30 and checked in to our hotel near the airport.  We used the nearby Metro to head down town, where we did a bus tour around the city.  Not really inspired by Madrid, but perhaps we are travelled out.  It's another big city with lots of old buildings and lots of people.  

Our journey has almost ended.  4 weeks has gone by so quickly.  It has been fantastic, with some amazing sights and experiences.  Travelling with Jan and Jess has been delightful. Great friends, good times, good memories.  

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog.  Hope you found it interesting.

Adios. Until next time.