Aitzuriko hondartza, Shingle beach in Zumaia, Spain
Aitzuriko hondartza is a shingle beach on the Basque coast between tall limestone cliffs and the waters of the Bay of Biscay. The strand extends for about 600 meters, offering a wide sandy and rocky area framed by imposing cliff walls.
The limestone cliffs display rock layers dating back about 60 million years, revealing different geological periods. This formation, called flysch, developed through repeated cycles of mountain building and erosion over vast timespans.
The beach serves as a filming location for international productions, including scenes from Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. This connection to the film industry has made the place recognizable to fans of these series.
The beach is accessible through a stairway of about 200 steps from the parking area, leading down to the lower shores. Showers, toilets, and lifeguards are available during summer months, making the visit more comfortable.
The tides dramatically change the beach's appearance by exposing and covering a rocky platform that creates different patterns. Visitors can see completely different landscapes on the same day depending on when they arrive.
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