Andrea’s wonderful penthouse apartment delivers on all its promises. As enticing as her pictures are, the reality of the apartment is even better! We were there when the weather was cool so we didn’t take full advantage of the terrace seating areas—but it was still nice to walk out and get some fresh air and gauge the weather for how to dress for the day. One sees immediately why Andrea and her apartment get exclusively 5’s on the reviews—it really is a perfect place to explore this gem of a coastal city. With all her warmth and verve, Andrea is there to greet you and orient you not only to the wonderful large and comfortable apartment, but also with helpful city maps, language guides for those who want to go from their language to both Basque and Spanish, and a list of her favorite bars and restaurants in different areas of the beaches and city. She explained one cannot flag down a taxi in that city and made the call to arrange a taxi for a few days later, as we would need it to get to the airport. We also got a plate of fresh-baked cake her mother made for us and beautiful grapes. There was milk, butter, jam, and coffee pods, a few cokes and beers, and a few other essential items to get tourists started on their first day with ease. The kitchen is thoughtfully stocked, well organized, with colorful dinnerware that pleased the eye.
The unit is quite large with comfortable sofas in the living room and very tasteful furnishings. Each of the two bedrooms has its own full bathroom, something that as two women friends, we greatly appreciated. I must mention that the showers have full shower doors, which seems to be a luxury in Europe. As Americans not used to open stalls, elsewhere we got water all over the bathroom floors. I also note that the two large bedrooms are on opposite ends of the apartment, which is wonderful for individuals or couples appreciating privacy, or for families where the parents can get some distance from their children. There are large windows so the entire apartment has an open-air feel to it, with lovely views of the city. Just as described, the apartment is in the most upscale area of the city, literally a block from the start of a great pedestrian walk with the best stores and restaurants. Yet if one keeps walking, you are only 10 minutes from the fun Old City, with all its pinxtos bars, ancient churches, interesting shops.
If you walk in a different direction, within minutes you are at either of two wonderful beaches, each with its own feel and sights. And, of course, more wonderful restaurants. This apartment is perfect for those who only have a few days to explore this mesmerizing small city, as well as perfect for those who want to indulge a much longer stay. This is an abode and a city that invites you to relax and enjoy life. Thank you, Andrea, and your kind family, for all the hospitality.