Monte Urgull is the green hill that rises behind the old town, separating La Concha bay from the open Cantabrian sea. It is a short walk from the Parte Vieja, and the paths up through the trees are shaded and manageable, with benches, viewpoints and old cannons placed along the route. At the top stands the Castillo de la Mota, a sixteenth-century fortress that was reinforced over the centuries and that played a part in the sieges of the city, and a large statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which looks out over the bay and is visible from much of the town. On the way you pass the quiet British cemetery, a reminder of the nineteenth-century wars and of the soldiers who died during the siege of 1813. The reward for the climb is the view, which looks over the roofs of the old town, the curve of La Concha beach, Santa Clara Island and the line of Monte Igueldo opposite, as well as the open water on the other side. Entry to the park is free, and the walk is a pleasant half-hour up and a shorter descent, which makes it a good complement to the old town. It is also a quieter way to see the bay than the crowded promenade, especially in the evening.
Planning the visit
The park is open and free, but some facilities, such as the fortress museum, keep their own hours and may be closed on certain days, so check before you plan to go inside. The paths are paved or well made in places but can be steep and slippery after rain, and there is no refreshment at the top, so bring water. The hill is a good sunset spot, but leave time to walk down before it gets fully dark.
How to do it
Start from the harbour end of the old town and follow the main path, taking your time at the viewpoints, then continue to the castle and the statue. Look for the cannons along the walls and for the glimpses of the sea on the north side. You can loop back down by a different path to vary the view, and finish with a drink or pintxos in the old town below. Wear comfortable shoes with grip.
Who it suits
Walkers, couples, photographers and anyone who wants a free high view of the bay. It is a manageable climb for most people but is not step-free, so those with mobility difficulties should plan accordingly. It pairs well with the Parte Vieja at the foot of the hill and with the Santa Clara boat trip, and it offers a free alternative to the funicular at Monte Igueldo on the other side of the bay. In bad weather the view is limited, so choose a clear day.
What to expect
The experience
A free walk up a wooded hill from the old town to a fortress and a view over La Concha and the open sea.
Best time
Late afternoon or sunset on a clear day, with time to descend before dark.
How long
One to two hours, depending on how long you stay at the viewpoints.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, bring water and check the hours of the fortress museum if you want to go inside.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers and photographers who want a free high view of the bay.
- Families
- Suitable for children who can handle a steady climb, though it is not step-free.
- Couples
- A romantic sunset outing, followed by pintxos in the old town.
- Pair with
- The Parte Vieja below and the boat trip to Santa Clara Island.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is Monte Urgull free?+
Yes, the park and its paths are free to enter. Some facilities at the fortress may keep their own hours and charges.
How long does the walk take?+
The climb from the old town takes roughly half an hour, and you should allow one to two hours in all with stops.
What can I see at the top?+
You find the Castillo de la Mota, a large statue of the Sacred Heart and views over La Concha bay, Santa Clara Island and the old town.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, if they can manage a steady climb, but the paths include slopes and steps, and are not buggy-friendly everywhere.
When is the best time to go?+
Late afternoon on a clear day is ideal for the light and the view. Avoid the paths when they are wet and slippery.
