Meatza | Iron and sea

Itsaslur and Piquillo Greenways (Cantabria) > El Hoyo Mining Reserve – Ontón

The Iron and Sea route is a pleasant walk of around six kilometres linking the neighbourhoods of Kobaron and Pobeña in Muskiz. Although it can be walked in either direction, on this occasion we will start the walk in Pobeña. The route begins with a challenging stretch of steps along the old mining incline; once you’ve made it up, the path becomes easier and allows you to fully enjoy the coastline.

The route follows the old mining railway line, running right along the edge of the cliff and offering spectacular views of the mouth of the Barbadun and La Arena beach. It is a natural balcony where the blue of the Cantabrian Sea blends with the history of iron.

Along the way, there are numerous vestiges of the mining past, such as the imposing remains of the McLennan Company or the calcination kilns of the Amalia Vizcaína mine (1900). Of particular note is the monumental stone base of the Castillo loading bay. Although its metal structure was destroyed in a storm in 2008, its foundations remain one of the most recognisable features of the area.

Once in Kobaron, you have the option of extending the route by a further three kilometres along the Piquillo greenway towards Ontón. This section takes you into Cantabrian territory to discover another key site of industrial heritage: the El Hoyo-Ontón mining estate.

The Josefa and Celedonia mines belonged to this reserve, and they were in operation from the late 19th century until the 1970s. Some of its most iconic structures, such as the sorting plant and the loading station, have recently been restored.

For almost a century, the mined iron was transported along these railway lines to the Piquillo loading bay in Ontón (Cantabria), from where it was exported by sea. This transport system was the driving force behind the local economy for generations.

Back in Bizkaia, the Kobaron area will be home to a future environmental interpretation centre and hostel. The project aims to showcase the coastal and mining landscape of Muskiz, as well as providing essential services to pilgrims and cycling tourists travelling along the coast.

The Iron and Sea Route brings together the sea, the mountains and mining history along a route that winds through the most distinctive landscapes of the Cantabrian coast. This itinerary offers a close-up look at the industrial heritage that transformed the landscape of Muskiz and the entire western tip of Bizkaia.

To round off the experience, you simply mustn’t leave the area without sampling its local cuisine. When it’s time to eat, the area brings out its finest fare: we recommend trying the fish and seafood in the port of Zierbena and in Pobeña, where grilled dishes take centre stage. What’s more, both in Kobaron and on La Arena beach itself, you’ll find a wide range of options and bars brimming with pintxos to round off the day by the sea.

Must-see

Route to Punta Lucero

The climb to Punta Lucero combines natural beauty with historical significance. The route is known for its defensive structures, with bunkers and gun emplacements overlooking the coast. The summit offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Bay of Biscay and is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.

Sunset in La Arena beach

La Arena beach is known for its landscape of dunes and salt marshes, designated a Special Area of Conservation. At low tide, the remains of a mining aerial tramway come into view. The far right of the beach is the perfect spot to watch an unforgettable sunset over the Bay of Biscay.

Surf at the Cantabrian sea

La Arena beach is a hotspot for surfing on the Cantabrian coast. Its rough waters attract surfers from all over the world, although you don’t need any experience to enjoy the waves. La Arena Surf Center offers courses tailored to all levels for those who wish to take up the sport or refine their surfing skills.

Practical Information

Cómo llegar

If you’re coming by car, there are ample car parks in both Kobaron and Pobeña, as well as at La Arena beach; from the latter, simply cross the footbridge to reach the start of the route.

For those who prefer cycling or public transport, Pobeña is the ideal starting point. The neighbourhood is part of an extensive network of cycle paths (‘bidegorri’) that connect directly with Ezkerraldea, Meatzaldea and Enkarterri.

Autobús

Check Bizkaibus lines

Vehículo privado

Kobaron (43.347126, -3.143794) View on Google Maps

Pobeña (43.347126, -3.143794) View on Google Maps

La Arena Beach (43.347704, 3.116657 View on Google Maps

Alquiler y excursiones en bici

Beroutes Visit website

Urgebi Bikes Visit website

Lunch break!

Enjoy the gastronomy of Meatzaldea along your route

Mugarri

Muskiz

Gloria

Zierbena

Mendiondo

Sopuerta

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Where to stay

Discover the best accommodations available in Meatzaldea, surrounded by mining history, tradition, and nature. Rural hotels and modern spaces near the best routes and viewpoints in our land. Wake up every day in a unique environment!

Iron and sea