Field trips for San Sebastián, Spain
We highly recommend students participate in the following organized field trips, which are included in your program fees. Some trips may be mandatory for specific classes and will be led by the Resident Director, instructors, or International Office staff.
Please note that destinations may only be available during certain terms and are subject to change at the discretion of the Resident Director or on-site staff.
The following are possible field trip destinations, with further details provided upon arrival.
Bizkaia
Discover Basque political and organizational history as you explore Bizkaia, the neighboring Basque province. Visit the city of Gernika, the spiritual capital of the Basques as well as Picasso’s inspiration for his "El Guernica" painting and the site of one of the first aerial bombings by the German Condor Legion during the Spanish Civil War. Next you’ll head to Bilbao to enjoy lunch and visit the famous Guggenheim Museum, home to Gehry’s most famous work.
French Basque Country
Take a trip to Bayonne, an ancient city where you’ll explore the remains of the medieval period, including Saint Mary’s Cathedral and the Ancient Castle, a fortress from the 14th-century. You’ll also visit the coastal city of Biarritz, known for its famous beaches, therapeutic water, and thriving surf scene. There, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Biarritz Aquarium and enjoy some free time.
Province of Gipuzkoa
Visit several locations in the beautiful province of Gipuzkoa on this exciting tour. First, explore Igartubeiti, a 16th-century farmhouse-turned-museum where you’ll learn about the Basque way of life and the importance of nature, agriculture, and family traditions. Then, visit the 18th-century Basilica of Arantzazu, an excellent representation of groundbreaking artistic expression at the time. Finally, you’ll explore the town of Zumaia and the Geopark of the Basque Coast, where an expert guide will take you through the history of the Earth at a unique geological research site.
The Pyrenees Mountains
Explore several locations in the Basque Pyrenees Mountains. Visit the town of Saint Jean de Luz in the French Basque Country, then head to Sara, a small mountain village where you’ll take a 1-hour guided hike across the international border through the Pyrenees to Zugarramurdi (weather permitting). In Zugarramurdi, you’ll learn about the famous history and witness interpretations of alleged witchcraft and the Spanish Inquisition. Then, you’ll visit the famous caves where the alleged witches used to gather.