Muriola

Muriola is a sand beach in Barrika enclosed by high cliffs that form a protected cove along the northern Atlantic coast of the Basque Country. The cove has a natural horseshoe shape that creates calm waters inside while the open ocean lies just beyond the cliff edges.

The beach formed through natural coastal erosion and served for centuries as a navigation reference point for sailors due to its distinctive cliff formations. Only in recent times did it develop into a public bathing area for the community.

The beach is used by the local community as a space for body freedom, reflecting the open attitudes of Basque coastal towns. Visitors see people of all backgrounds moving freely and comfortably throughout the area.

Access involves descending stairs from the cliff-top parking area to reach the sand, which requires some physical effort. Visitors should check tide schedules in advance because the usable beach area changes significantly with water levels.

The strand served as a filming location in 2016 for scenes from the seventh season of Game of Thrones, with filmmakers choosing it for its dramatic cliff backdrop. Many visitors remain unaware of this film connection, even as they walk through the same memorable landscape.