Morning Ritual: Walking Along La Concha Bay
Every day in San Sebastián starts the same for me with a peaceful walk along the breathtaking Bay of La Concha. This daily ritual not only energizes me but also sets the tone for the day. The fresh air, the feel of sand between my toes, and the sounds of waves crashing along the shore make each walk a pleasant adventure. I often encounter street performers showcasing their talents, competitive games of “footvolley,” and intricate sandcastles being constructed. On average, I walk about 20,200 steps or roughly 9.2 miles, exploring the stunning scenery. However, today was particularly special. Not only did we not have classes due to a local holiday, but we also finally had the opportunity to visit Santa Clara Island. Since my arrival, I’ve passed by the island daily, and my desire to explore it has only grown. Now, the day has finally come!!
A Leisurely Morning by the Beach
With the luxury of extra free time, I headed to the beach to relax, read, and soak in the atmosphere. It was a bit cloudy, but that didn’t deter me from enjoying it and looking forward to the afternoon ahead.
The Anticipated Journey: Trip to Santa Clara Island
At 2:30 PM, our group gathered for a short ferry ride to Santa Clara Island. This small island has been a focal point in my photographs since I arrived on July 14th, and now I get to explore it up close. Centered between Mount Urgull and Mount Igueldo, it stands 48 meters tall and 400 meters wide. Accessible by ferry every 30 minutes or via paddle boards, kayaks, personal boats, or even swimming for the adventurous ones.
Exploring the Island: A Hidden Gem
From a distance, it seemed there wasn’t much happening on Santa Clara Island due to its imposing nature. However, upon arrival, it revealed its unique charm. Known for its “ghost beach,” which appears and disappears with the tides, the island is full of surprises. It was even more than I imagined it to be. There were tons of people, areas for jumping and swimming, a lighthouse, and even a restaurant and bar. The views from the island are truly spectacular, offering a new perspective on the city and its surrounding landscape.
We took a short (but steep) walk up to a scenic spot where we sat together, reflecting on our time in San Sebastián. We shared what we will miss most when we return home in just a few days :(. For me, and likely for many others, it’s the stunning scenery, friendly and safe environment, delicious food, unique culture, and the ease of exploring the city. The Basque region has been an amazing place to experience new norms and lifestyles.
After our group reflection, some of us stayed to swim. Although it took me a while to jump in, the cool water was invigorating, providing a perfect end to our visit before returning to the mainland.
An Evening Picnic and Final Thoughts
The evening continued with a lovely picnic dinner on the beach, followed by a swim. It was a peaceful and fitting end to a day filled with exploration and reflection. The simple pleasures of good food, good company, and the calm ambiance of the beach made it an unforgettable experience. As I biked back to the hotel, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of joy and sadness. Joy for the beautiful experiences we’ve had and sadness for knowing our time here is coming to an end. Nonetheless, I am filled with gratitude. This journey has been a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, learn about the Basque history and language, and form lasting memories and friendships. The experiences and lessons from this trip will stay with me long after I leave, reminding me of this place that has felt like a second home. I hope to visit again one day.
