A Visit to Zarautz
Zarautz is a town on the coast in the province of Guipuzcoa in Spain’s Basque Country. Normally a quiet town of around 22000 people, in summer the population swells to around 60000 people or more, attracted by the mile long beach, probably the longest in the Basque Country and the fabulous waves that bring a smile to the faces of avid surfers.
A Former Rich Resort
Originally a summer resort of the rich and famous, Zarautz has since become more affordable and has now became more famous for its surfing and water sports as well as the golf course that sits invitingly just off the beach. Zarautz has also earned a reputation as the home of weightlifting in the Basque Country.
Gastronomy
Zarautz is also home to one of the most famous Basque cooks, Carlos Arguiñano, author of books on Basque and international cuisine whose hotel/restaurant of the same name is just off the beach. Here you can enjoy the seafood that is the specialty of this famous cook. You can also enjoy the pintzos or tapas that are just the thing to whet your appetite for one of the more elaborate culinary creations of Carlos Arguiñano.
Museums
You should definitely visit the two museums in Zarautz, the Photo Museum and the Art and History Museum. You can see one of the first professional cameras on display, used by famous photographers like Capa and Cartier-Bresson. Also on display are hundreds of other cameras, ranging from the very old to the latest digital marvels.
Golfing
If you like golf, you can visit the Real Golf Club de Zarautz with its course just above the beach. The fresh sea breeze will surely give your game a boost. If you get tired of golf and want a change of sport, you can also enjoy a game of tennis on the four courts or just relax in the sports bar and watch the action on the beach.
Surf
If there is one summer activity for which Zarautz is definitely famous, it is surfing. The waves coming onto the beach are just the right size, ideal for those who prefer their surfing to be enjoyable, even though there are huge waves at times that could satisfy the more demanding of surfers. Other water sports are also practiced here and you can enjoy the jet skis that are always available.
Weightlifting is another activity for which Zarautz has gained certain renown. The Basque Weightlifting Federation was formed right here and international events are held every summer.
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