Towns > Sukarrieta
You might not be familiar with Sukarrieta—or maybe you’ve heard it called Pedernales—but either way, this small town has something special. Nestled in the heart of Urdaibai, it’s a place where nature, history, and tranquility come together effortlessly. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the water, explore scenic trails, or dive into local history, Sukarrieta offers a truly authentic Basque experience.
And if there’s one place that truly stands out in Sukarrieta, it’s Txatxarramendi. This idyllic island is a natural sanctuary and easily one of the most stunning spots in Urdaibai. But beyond its beauty, it holds a fascinating story—its holm oak forest is the oldest in Urdaibai, which is why today it’s a protected botanical park.
That said, Txatxarramendi hasn’t always been open to the public, and it played a surprising role in the history of tourism in the area. But if you want to uncover all its secrets (and trust us, there’s some juicy history here), the best way is to come and let us tell you in person!
Today, Sukarrieta is synonymous with tranquility, but it wasn’t always this way. Its privileged location made it an important stop for the Romans, who used it as a coastal trading port. Goods arrived here before being transferred to smaller barges that navigated up the estuary to Forua and other inland settlements. In other words, this little town had much more hustle and bustle than meets the eye.
Over the centuries, Sukarrieta remained an influential town in Bizkaia. In fact, it held the second seat and vote in the General Assemblies of Gernika, which was no small feat. Its territory even extended beyond the estuary, sharing the Kanala neighborhood with Gautegiz-Arteaga. This also explains another curious fact: the town’s old parish church was originally located on Sandindere Island, right in the middle of the estuary. By the late 13th century, it was moved to the mainland—because let’s be honest, rowing to mass at every tide change probably wasn’t the most practical solution.
But Sukarrieta hasn’t just hosted Roman merchants and Biscayan lords—it has also had its share of Hollywood glamour. Ernest Hemingway and Ava Gardner once made a stop here, stirring up the town for a few days. We can only imagine the curious glances from the locals and the stories that have been passed down ever since.
Despite its small size, Sukarrieta is full of places that invite you to slow down and stay a while. Txatxarramendi Island is the star attraction, but it’s far from the only one. At low tide, small coves emerge, offering the perfect spots to relax with views over the estuary. And if you’re looking for a larger, family-friendly beach, Toña Beach is your best bet. Located right across from the island, it’s a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of other coastal areas.
Sukarrieta is also the perfect starting point to explore Urdaibai. From here, you can follow hiking trails, venture into the marshlands, or simply blend in with the locals and enjoy the slow pace of life.
In the end, Sukarrieta is one of those places that may be small in size but are rich in character. Its history, natural beauty, and unique charm make it a fantastic destination for anyone wanting to experience Urdaibai from a different perspective.
If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by—it’s worth your time. And if you’re curious to learn more about its history (and some well-kept secrets), you know where to find us!
