Zumaia Flysch & Itzurun Beach
Dramatic coastal cliffs and unique striated rock formations, famous as a Game of Thrones filming location.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Exposes the unique Flysch formations
Zumaia Flysch & Itzurun Beach
Best Time
Exposes the unique Flysch formations

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic coastal cliffs and unique striated rock formations, famous as a Game of Thrones filming location.
"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."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Above Itzurun Beach
Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the coast and the Flysch from this picturesque hermitage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Key
Game of Thrones & Hiking Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Game of Thrones Fan? :tv:
This is where Dragonstone was filmed! Imagine the scenes as you explore the dramatic cliffs.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
Local food stands offer pies and cakes, perfect for enjoying on the beach.
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.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be hilly and muddy, especially outside of summer. Good grip is essential for exploring.
Game of Thrones Fan? :tv:
This is where Dragonstone was filmed! Imagine the scenes as you explore the dramatic cliffs.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
Local food stands offer pies and cakes, perfect for enjoying on the beach.
Be Wary of the Tide :warning:
The tide can rise quickly, trapping visitors. Always be aware of your surroundings.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
While not mandatory, guided tours can offer deeper insights into the geology and history of the Flysch. Check with local tourist information for availability.
You can access the beach and surrounding areas at any time. However, to see the Flysch formations clearly, you must visit during low tide.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
No, dogs are generally not allowed on Itzurun Beach, especially during the peak season. Always check local signage for the most current regulations.
You can explore the unique rock formations, hike along the coastal paths, enjoy the beach, and even try surfing on the powerful waves.
Itzurun Beach has powerful waves, making it popular with surfers. Swimming can be challenging and potentially dangerous due to strong currents.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Zumaia offers delicious Basque cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. You'll find pintxos bars and restaurants serving local specialties.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy picnics on the beach. The local food stands are convenient for grabbing items to supplement your own food.
While seafood is prominent, many Basque restaurants offer vegetable-based pintxos and dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for options.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
🎬 Film Buffs and Pop Culture Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel: Understanding the Flysch
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.
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.
Beyond the Beach: Hiking and Coastal Exploration
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. 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.
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.
A Cinematic Landscape: Game of Thrones and More
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit