Casa rural Errota-Barri

This typical stone and timber farmhouse blends historic features – such as a preserved 19th-century watermill and beamed ceilings – with modern touches such as underfloor heating, and the uncluttered, stylish interiors include reclaimed furniture and traditional painted Basque headboards.

Find eco-friendly products in the bathroom and enjoy breakfasts of organic and locally sourced fare – homemade bread and cake, hams, cheeses, egg and fruit, served at separate tables in the breakfast room. You’ll want to linger in the bedrooms – all have comfy sofas and writing desks, and four have private balconies – or next to the wood-burner in the cosy guest living room.

The lawned garden has several seating areas and a covered barbecue with picnic tables and benches. Make use of the fully-equipped guest kitchen, or head to the nearest restaurant, Asador Aurrekoetxe, 650m down the track. Bilbao has world-class food, museums and beaches, and you can drive there in 20 minutes or walk 10 minutes down the road to catch a bus.