JUNE 28, 2015 : SPAIN: San Sebastián

Our first day in San Sebastián or Donostia, as it is called in the local Basque language. We are staying on the beach front in a small hotel, Hotel Niza. San Sebastián is a very attractive and from all appearances, a very prosperous town, defined by its beautiful sandy beaches and bay bordered by gracious nineteenth century buildings. It was the centre of the struggle between the English and French during the Napoleonic Wars, when Napoleon conquered the city and the Duke of Wellington proceeded to besiege it for two and a half months and loot and destroy it. Several of the churches have been restored but originally dated back to the 12th century. More background to this friendly place tomorrow on a free walking tour.

First view of San Sebastián from our hotel window.

Just outside the hotel La Concha beach. Safe swimming, 22o water temperature, soft clean sand. Families all out relaxing together.

Excitement along the beach front as hundreds of enthusiastic triathletes gather for competition. A few international contestants, including Australians, mentioned over the loud speaker.

We joined many tourists and locals walking along the extensive promenade at the glorious views of the bay.

Modern and traditional sculptures throughout the city. Our favourite was Don Quixote and Sancho. I've often felt like Sancho, the loyal side-kick, on our journeys.

Just a few streets from the shore there was a stunning plaza lined by immaculate apartments. This was originally the local bull- fighting ring and the numbered apartments were the private spectator boxes. Note the old man in his traditional Basque beret. 

                                        

We wandered through busy alleyways and even spied some other pelegrinos already walking the Del Norte route.

      

In one of the courtyards, near the local Pelota court - Basque handball - local children were practising Basque traditional dances, which they perform regularly during the summer holidays and festivals.

                                    

Bob and Julie, our travelling companions, have researched the best local cuisine and they booked at the Aita Mari restaurant for lunch.

                                    

                    

            

                                        

         

         

       

                                        

       

   

          

After a swim and a siesta we joined the throngs tasting the delights of the pinxtos or tapas bars. Bit of a bun fight to squeeze in and make your selections and then find a space to eat it but the atmosphere was so convivial. Babies to the elderly all out enjoying an evening stroll, meals or a drink - not a mobile phone in sight - people actually talking to each other! 

 The Spanish certainly know how to have a good time - and everyone is invited!

M&M