San Sebastian or Donostia as it is known in Euskera, the Basque language, is splendidly situated around the shell-shaped La Concha Bay, protected from the Atlantic by a wooded island, the Isla de Santa Clara. San Sebastian has for a long time been considered one of the most elegant and fashionable Spanish seaside resorts, since it became a popular summer retreat with the Spanish aristocracy in the late 19th century. The best views of the city are to be enjoyed from the top of Mount Urgull. Crowned by a castle wall and magnificent statue of Christ, you can see the entire bay. At night the whole city is lit up making a truly magical scene. San Sebastian also boasts some of the best city beaches in Spain, in particular Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta.
This pulsating area is also famous for being the home of pintxos (pin-chose) the generic name given to the deliciously elaborated Basque gourmet snacks, which overflow every bar counter. Just deciding which one to try is probably the most difficult decision youŽll have to make while in San Sebastian. But do try them, you wonŽt regret it. Look out for the sculptures of Chillida in the Peine de los Vientos, and you can decide about whether or not it is a comb. If you a |