Attractions and Places To See around Balmaseda - Top 20

Balmaseda, as the oldest town in Biscay, offers a rich array of historical sites. You can visit the iconic Old Bridge of Balmaseda, a medieval structure with a Gothic tower that served as a crucial customs point. The Church of San Severino, a 15th-century Gothic church with Baroque additions, is located in the main square. Other notable historical buildings include the Horcasitas Palace, Urrutia Palace, and the Balmaseda Town Hall. The pedestrian streets of the historic center also retain much of their medieval charm.

Yes, Balmaseda is surrounded by natural beauty. Mount Kolitza, one of Bizkaia's 'bocinero' mountains, offers stunning panoramic views and is home to the San Roque Hermitage at its summit. The Kadagua River flows through the town, shaping its valley. Nearby, you can find the Armañón Natural Park, which houses the Torca del Carlista Cavern, and the Pozalagua Caves in the Carranza Valley, known for their unique stalactites. For another scenic vista, consider visiting Alto de Ro, a mountain pass offering views of the Cadagua valley.

The area around Balmaseda is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and road cycling. For hiking, popular options include the challenging "Garbea and Kolitza Loop from Balmaseda" or moderate trails like "Kolitza Parking – Refugio Kolitza loop from Balmaseda." Road cyclists can enjoy routes like "Alto de la Mina, Humaran and Puerto de Las Muñecas — circular from Balmaseda." Explore more options on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Balmaseda, Running Trails around Balmaseda, and Road Cycling Routes around Balmaseda.

To delve into Balmaseda's history and culture, visit the Balmaseda History Museum, housed within the 15th-century San Juan Bautista Church. This museum offers insights into the town's past through various objects, photos, and sculptures. Additionally, the Balmaseda Living Passion Interpretation Center, located in the church of the Santa Clara Convent, explains the significance of the town's major Holy Week event.

Balmaseda offers several attractions suitable for families. The historic Old Bridge of Balmaseda is a fascinating landmark to explore, and the pedestrian streets of the Old Town are pleasant for strolls. The Church of San Severino also welcomes visitors of all ages to appreciate its architecture and history.

The most iconic landmark in Balmaseda is undoubtedly the Old Bridge of Balmaseda. This medieval bridge, also known as La Muza, features three arches and a Gothic tower, making it a well-known symbol of the town and a popular subject for artists and photographers.

For a unique look into Balmaseda's industrial past, visit the La Encartada Beret Museum (Museo de Boinas La Encartada). This museum is housed in a former 19th-century beret and blanket factory, showcasing the region's significant industrial heritage.

The San Roque Hermitage is a religious building from the 13th century located at 880 meters above sea level on the summit of Mount Kolitza. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the valley. It's a popular destination for hikers, and you can reach it via various hiking trails, such as the "Kolitza Summit Shelter – Cima Gueci loop from La Calzada" or the "Kolitza Parking – Refugio Kolitza loop from Balmaseda."

Yes, Balmaseda features several impressive palaces and historic houses that reflect its past prosperity. The Horcasitas Palace, a 17th-century tower house with an ornate facade, and the Urrutia Palace are significant examples. You can also admire the Houses of Indianos, such as the Martin Mendia House and Villa Lola, built by locals who returned wealthy after emigrating to America.

The Church of San Severino is a 15th-century Gothic church located in Balmaseda's main square. While primarily Gothic, it features notable Baroque elements from 18th-century renovations, including pinnacles and archangels. Inside, it boasts impressive stained glass windows and a 19th-century Cavaille-Coll organ. The church also contains several lateral chapels, including the interesting 16th-century Urrutia family chapel with its unique ribbed vault.

Balmaseda can be enjoyed throughout the year, but certain times offer unique experiences. The town is known for its traditions and festivities, including a medieval market and the Vía Crucis Viviente during Easter (Holy Week), which is a major event. Visiting during these times can provide a deeper cultural immersion. For outdoor activities like hiking, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather.

The Oxirando Tower is a late-Gothic medieval tower from the 15th century, located near Balmaseda in the town of Sandamendi. It is part of a complex that also includes a Renaissance palace attached in the 16th century, situated on an important medieval road connecting Artziniega with Bilbao.