Keeping Cool in Zumaia

But when the temperatures climb, it’s also good to find ways to cool off. Fortunately, Zumaia offers plenty of options for enjoying hot summer days in comfort, both indoors and through water-based activities.

Zumaia's museums and exhibition spaces are ideal places to rest and beat the heat. If you’re after something spur-of-the-moment, on the second floor of the Moilaberri Estazioa building you can visit the Zumaia exhibition throughout history. If you are able to plan your visit in advance, however, there are other museums that can be visited by appointment. At the Julio Beobide Museum, for example, you’ll have the chance to explore the legacy and workshop of one of the town's most distinguished artists. Z Espacio Cultural brings together the most representative works from Ignacio Zuloaga's private collection, while the Kantauri Ondare Museoa houses genuine treasures related to boats and shipbuilding. All these options are an excellent way to enjoy both culture and cool air on the hottest days of summer.

The parish church of San Pedro is also well worth a visit. Standing in the upper part of the old town, this striking Gothic construction offers not only a welcome refuge from the heat, but also the chance to discover an important part of Zumaia's artistic and historical heritage, thanks to its volunteers who welcome visitors.

It is well known that one of the best ways to beat the heat is water, and in Zumaia the possibilities are many. The town's beaches offer excellent spots to swim and rest. At the Itzurun and Santiago beaches you can enjoy the sea, stroll along the shore, or revel in the coolness of the waves.

You can also discover nature from the water, making your way along the Urola estuary in a kayak or on a paddleboard, or taking a boat out to the foot of the flysch. Seen from the sea, the Zumaia coastline takes on a whole new dimension: an unforgettable experience combining spectacular cliffs, remarkable geological strata and the freshness of the sea. What is more, guided boat trips offer an insight into the history, and some of the secrets, of the Basque Coast Geopark.

The Urola River and its estuary are also ideal places to enjoy the cool on summer days. The proximity of the water and the gentle sea breeze create a most agreeable atmosphere both for those strolling along the banks and for anyone keen to take part in water sports. Kayak, batel (traditional rowboat) and paddleboard outings on the estuary offer another perspective on the surroundings, at water level and at a leisurely pace. Some of these routes run as far as Bedua, following the same course once taken by the vessels heading for the area’s ironworks and shipyards. Making the most of the high tide, you can head up the estuary and immerse yourself in a quieter, greener landscape. Seen from the water, the Bedua area offers a perfect combination of coolness and nature with which to weather the summer heat.

In Zumaia, summer is about more than just sun and sand. Discovering the town's heritage, delving into its museums, visiting its historic churches, or taking part in its aquatic activities are all perfect ways to cope with the high temperatures. There are plenty of ways to cool off and enjoy the summer, so everyone can find the one that’s right for them.