Follow the Coast

BASQUE COUNTRY 12 CANTABRIA 36 ASTURIAS 72 GALICIA 190 NORTE 188 CENTRO 218 LISBON 250 ALENTEJO 284 ALGARVE 318 ANDALUSIA 352 6

BASQUE COUNTRY 12 CANTABRIA 36 ASTURIAS 72 GALICIA 190 NORTE 188 CENTRO 218 LISBON 250 ALENTEJO 284 ALGARVE 318 ANDALUSIA 352 6

FLYSCH ROCKS

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FLYSCH ROCKS

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STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Guernica Holds deep historical significance, famously immortalised by Picasso's painting after the tragic bombing in the Spanish Civil War. Mundaka Charming beach side village with world-class waves.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Hermitage perched atop a rocky islet. Famous for its role as Dragonstone in Game of Thrones, its zigzagging staircase and ocean views make it a must-see.

Lemoizko Zentral Nuklearra An abandoned nuclear plant, offers haunting coastal views for those interested in forgotten industrial history.

Geltokiko Zubia Suspension bridge in Plentzia provides sweeping river views.

Vizcaya Bridge, Getxo A UNESCO-listed transporter bridge, marks the end of this unforgettable adventure.

STAGE STORY

Truth be told, my participation in Follow the Coast was spontaneous. I stumbled upon the project on social media and, seeing a stage running through my Basque Country home turf, I knew I had to join. It was the perfect chance to link my favourite local routes into one epic adventure—a challenge I’d envisioned for years.

The day began with a golden sunrise over Urdaibai. Clear skies, cool air—ideal running conditions. The first stretch was unfamiliar territory, with narrow trails and occasional road crossings demanding focus. Determined to start strong, I pushed the pace and arrived in Bermeo earlier than expected, where my first running companion, Urtzi Martínez, joined me. Together, we ran the cliff-hugging paths toward San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the sea crashing below us.

In Bakio, our group grew. Jon Galbarriartu and Lisa Worthington joined us just in time for the toughest leg— rolling hills and steep climbs toward Armintza. Lisa had her doubts about joining, but her energy and laughter brought fresh momentum to our team. A pit stop in Armintza provided much-needed fuel, and a food truck serving oysters delighted the supporters waiting for us.

With new companions, Oier Urrutia, Aitor Egiluz, and Lander Unanue, I set off for Sopela, my hometown. These were familiar trails, part of my regular training runs. We picked up the pace, legs aching but hearts light, knowing the finish line wasn’t far.

From Sopela to the Hanging Bridge of Getxo, I ran solo.

Instead of feeling alone, I found peace, reflecting on the journey—the camaraderie, the beauty of the Basque coast, and the support of friends and family. As the iconic bridge came into view, cheers erupted, and a cold Duvel awaited me at the finish line.

Lisa, who tackled her 8 km section with determination, later said it was an incredible way to experience the coastline. “Before moving here, I’d barely run a hill in my life. But Aaron inspired me—and who knows? Maybe I’ll run a full stage someday.”

For me, this wasn’t just about running. It was about the people, the landscape, and the shared passion for this incredible mission. To Max, Gert-Jan, and the entire Follow the Coast team: may the journey continue for many more kilometres ahead.

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STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Guernica Holds deep historical significance, famously immortalised by Picasso's painting after the tragic bombing in the Spanish Civil War. Mundaka Charming beach side village with world-class waves.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Hermitage perched atop a rocky islet. Famous for its role as Dragonstone in Game of Thrones, its zigzagging staircase and ocean views make it a must-see.

Lemoizko Zentral Nuklearra An abandoned nuclear plant, offers haunting coastal views for those interested in forgotten industrial history.

Geltokiko Zubia Suspension bridge in Plentzia provides sweeping river views.

Vizcaya Bridge, Getxo A UNESCO-listed transporter bridge, marks the end of this unforgettable adventure.

STAGE STORY

Truth be told, my participation in Follow the Coast was spontaneous. I stumbled upon the project on social media and, seeing a stage running through my Basque Country home turf, I knew I had to join. It was the perfect chance to link my favourite local routes into one epic adventure—a challenge I’d envisioned for years.

The day began with a golden sunrise over Urdaibai. Clear skies, cool air—ideal running conditions. The first stretch was unfamiliar territory, with narrow trails and occasional road crossings demanding focus. Determined to start strong, I pushed the pace and arrived in Bermeo earlier than expected, where my first running companion, Urtzi Martínez, joined me. Together, we ran the cliff-hugging paths toward San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the sea crashing below us.

In Bakio, our group grew. Jon Galbarriartu and Lisa Worthington joined us just in time for the toughest leg— rolling hills and steep climbs toward Armintza. Lisa had her doubts about joining, but her energy and laughter brought fresh momentum to our team. A pit stop in Armintza provided much-needed fuel, and a food truck serving oysters delighted the supporters waiting for us.

With new companions, Oier Urrutia, Aitor Egiluz, and Lander Unanue, I set off for Sopela, my hometown. These were familiar trails, part of my regular training runs. We picked up the pace, legs aching but hearts light, knowing the finish line wasn’t far.

From Sopela to the Hanging Bridge of Getxo, I ran solo.

Instead of feeling alone, I found peace, reflecting on the journey—the camaraderie, the beauty of the Basque coast, and the support of friends and family. As the iconic bridge came into view, cheers erupted, and a cold Duvel awaited me at the finish line.

Lisa, who tackled her 8 km section with determination, later said it was an incredible way to experience the coastline. “Before moving here, I’d barely run a hill in my life. But Aaron inspired me—and who knows? Maybe I’ll run a full stage someday.”

For me, this wasn’t just about running. It was about the people, the landscape, and the shared passion for this incredible mission. To Max, Gert-Jan, and the entire Follow the Coast team: may the journey continue for many more kilometres ahead.

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UNIVERSIDAD PONTIFICIA DE COMILLAS

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UNIVERSIDAD PONTIFICIA DE COMILLAS

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Stage 56 CASTAÑERAS > SAN ANTONIO

PUNTA DE LA ATALAYA

CABO BUSTO

CABO DE SAN AGUSTIN

PLAYA DEL SILENCIO ERMITA DE LA REGALINA

LUARCA

SAN ANTONIO

102

CASTAÑERAS

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Stage 56 CASTAÑERAS > SAN ANTONIO

PUNTA DE LA ATALAYA

CABO BUSTO

CABO DE SAN AGUSTIN

PLAYA DEL SILENCIO ERMITA DE LA REGALINA

LUARCA

SAN ANTONIO

102

CASTAÑERAS

103

PLAYA DE LAS CATEDRALES

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PLAYA DE LAS CATEDRALES

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113

Stage 68 CATOIRA > ILLA DA TOXA

CATOIRA

ISLA DE CORTEGADA

VILLAGARCÍA DE AROUSA

ILLA DE AROUSA

ILLA DA TOXA

O GROVE PENINSULA

SHOREHOLDER

Federica Panzarella

174

ILLA DE AROUSA

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Stage 68 CATOIRA > ILLA DA TOXA

CATOIRA

ISLA DE CORTEGADA

VILLAGARCÍA DE AROUSA

ILLA DE AROUSA

ILLA DA TOXA

O GROVE PENINSULA

SHOREHOLDER

Federica Panzarella

174

ILLA DE AROUSA

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Alentejo, Portugal’s largest region, enchants with golden plains, vineyards, and whitewashed villages. Known for cork trees, storks, olive groves, and rich gastronomy, it offers serene tranquillity.

LAGOA DE MELIDES

Explore Évora’s UNESCO heritage, ancient fortresses, and pristine beaches along a rugged coastline. The coastline divides into three parts. First, Setúbal’s coast features dramatic cliffs, beaches, and turquoise waters, part of Arrábida Natural Park, extending to the Troía Peninsula— perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Second, the Sado Estuary, a biodiverse area teeming with wildlife, from migratory birds to dolphins, making it a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Third, the long stretch of beach near Comporta, Carvalhal, and Melides, where unspoiled sands and luxury resorts crafted by top architects create a sophisticated retreat.

Comporta, now attracting the affluent, blends elegance with nature in an idyllic coastal paradise.

Alentejo

150 km Coastline Capital: Évora

REGION 8 / 10

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Alentejo, Portugal’s largest region, enchants with golden plains, vineyards, and whitewashed villages. Known for cork trees, storks, olive groves, and rich gastronomy, it offers serene tranquillity.

LAGOA DE MELIDES

Explore Évora’s UNESCO heritage, ancient fortresses, and pristine beaches along a rugged coastline. The coastline divides into three parts. First, Setúbal’s coast features dramatic cliffs, beaches, and turquoise waters, part of Arrábida Natural Park, extending to the Troía Peninsula— perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Second, the Sado Estuary, a biodiverse area teeming with wildlife, from migratory birds to dolphins, making it a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Third, the long stretch of beach near Comporta, Carvalhal, and Melides, where unspoiled sands and luxury resorts crafted by top architects create a sophisticated retreat.

Comporta, now attracting the affluent, blends elegance with nature in an idyllic coastal paradise.

Alentejo

150 km Coastline Capital: Évora

REGION 8 / 10

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287

FARO DE CABO SARDAO, CAVALEIRO

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333

FARO DE CABO SARDAO, CAVALEIRO

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