Mount Ulia
Ulia mendia
A coastal mountain east of the city; the cliff-top trail from Ulia to Pasaia follows the Biscay coast's cliffs and makes a classic half-day hike.
Mount Ulia rises to about 230 metres, east of Zurriola Beach, and is the countryside hill San Sebastián locals visit most often. A classic route follows a section of the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago. Start from the eastern end of Zurriola Beach in the Gros district and climb the hill. Follow the cliff path past the remains of an old whaling lookout, near the Mompás Lighthouse and the cliffs facing the sea, then descend to the village of Pasai Donibane (San Juan) in Pasaia harbour.
The full route is about 8–9 kilometres and takes around 3 hours. At the end, take a small ferry across the harbour and catch a bus back to the city. Along the way, you can look back at Zurriola Beach and the city, and in spring the hillsides are covered in wildflowers. The mountain has picnic areas and several rural restaurants among the trees.
The trail is free, but some sections are narrow and close to cliff edges, and after rain it becomes muddy. Wear non-slip shoes and bring water.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Zurriola Beach
- Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium
- San Telmo Museum
- Cathedral of the Good Shepherd
- Parte Vieja, San Sebastián
- Basilica of Santa María del Coro
- La Concha Beach
- Monte Urgull