Bilbao Iron Coast Bike Tour

• Day tours by bike
• Spain
• Bilbao

Discover an authentic adventure in Bilbao’s mining regions

This unique guided bicycle tour, with the added benefit of bike rental, explores the southern shore of Bilbao’s River Nervíon. Whilst the Northern Quarter of the city is defined by its palaces and monuments, the Southern Quarter is home to the city’s industrial, mining heart. This family-friendly day tour takes you on an all-together different trip to Muskiz, the El Pobal Ironworks, and/or the Playa de La Arena seafront. Delve into Bilbao’s industrial past to understand its contemporary prosperity!

Alirón, or “All Iron”, was an expression shouted by British miners in the iron fields surrounding Muskiz. They were drawn to the region for the purity of the deposits here, and much of the city’s (and region’s) cultural heritage can be traced to their presence in the 19th and 20th centuries. This 18-mile route will explore the southern bank of the estuary before reaching the town of Muskiz. Your guide will explain the historic stories that have been passed down here from father to son, as well as the inequalities and struggles that face the area’s inhabitants. Many of the social problems that arose in the past persist into modernity, and the culture and art of the region reflects the fact.

You’ll have the choice of immersing yourself further in the city’s mining past by visiting the El Pobal Ironworks (a 500 year-old foundry), or relaxing on the stunning seafront at the Playa de La Arena or Pobeña municipality. Many visitors to Bilbao do not get a chance to venture into these historically rich regions, so grab your handlebars and grab the chance!

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Highlights

River Nervion, Muskiz, El Pobal Ironworks, Playa de La Arena, Pobeña

What’s included

• Bike rental
• Local guide
• Bottle of water
• Train ticket

Meeting place & directions

Tourne Bilbao - Villarías Kalea, 1, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain