Traditional Cider House Tour | Ekain, San Sebastián

Ekain is a truly personal sagardotegia run almost entirely by its owner and cider-maker, Aitor. Located among wide organic apple orchards, Ekain offers visitors the rare chance to meet the person behind every step of the cider-making process.

All apples used at Ekain are organically grown, and Aitor is involved in almost everything himself—from cultivating and harvesting the apples to making the cider and even labeling the bottles. During the busiest season, a small support team may help, but the heart of Ekain remains deeply personal and hands-on.

The guided tour is always led by Aitor himself. He shares the history and culture of Basque cider, guides visitors through the production facilities, and takes them for a walk among the apple trees. The visit also includes a stop at a scenic viewpoint, where guests can enjoy local pintxos while taking in the peaceful Basque landscape.

One of Ekain’s special features is that its cider ages in stainless-steel tanks, allowing visitors to enjoy the traditional Txotx experience throughout the year, not only during the usual cider season. Authentic, organic, and deeply connected to one maker’s passion, Ekain offers an intimate journey from orchard to glass.

• Meet the owner and cider maker, Aitor

• Learn how Basque cider is made from orchard to bottle

• Discover the history and traditions of Basque cider

• Explore the cider production facilities

• Experience the famous Txotx cider tasting directly from the tanks

• Enjoy Basque pintxos at a scenic countryside viewpoint

• Finish with a traditional Basque meal featuring seasonal local ingredients

• Food lovers

• Wine & cider enthusiasts

• Travelers interested in Basque culture

• Couples, families, and small groups

The tour begins with an informative introduction to the cider-making process, allowing participants to learn about local production while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. 

▼Key highlights include:
A guided tour of the apple orchard: Walk through the lush orchard filled with carefully tended apple trees, where you can learn about the different apple varieties used in cider production.

▼Cider tasting: 
Enjoy samples of cider and experience the distinct flavors and aromas that vary with the season and the type of apple used.

▼Aperitif and tasting experience: 
Guests can enjoy an aperitif and cider tasting as part of the tour.

▼Optional traditional Basque meal: 
After the tour, guests may enjoy a traditional Basque meal at the cider house. Please note that the meal fee is not included in the tour price and must be paid separately on-site.

▼Storytelling and local insights: 
Throughout the tour, you’ll gain insights into the traditions surrounding cider-making and the significance of local ingredients, enhancing your understanding of Basque culture.

• Guided experience: A knowledgeable guide will lead you through every step, sharing insights about the cider-making process and local history. The tour lasts approximately 60 minutes.
• Cider tasting: Tastings of the house cider during the tour are included, allowing guests to enjoy the cider house’s varieties.
• Meal arrangement: A reservation for a traditional Basque meal can be arranged at the cider house. Please note that the meal fee is not included in the tour price and must be paid separately on-site.

• Traditional Basque lunch or dinner (payable on-site; includes unlimited cider during the meal)
• Additional private time-slot fee, if requested
• Cider souvenirs

Before embarking on your visit to Ekain cider house, consider the following preparations:

Visitors can feel assured that even those without prior knowledge of cider-making can enjoy the experience, guided by friendly and accommodating staff eager to share their passion for cider and the local environment.

• Once we receive your booking request, we will coordinate with you and the cider house to arrange the tour date and time. We appreciate your patience and will contact you as soon as your reservation is confirmed.

・“Amazing and very local cider house with a delicious chuleton. A great meal and visit overall. It’s a wonderful experience.”

・“Our family had a fantastic time at the family-owned apple orchard and cider house. The tour was enlightening, and we enjoyed plenty of tasty pinchos and ciders while taking in the beautiful views.”

・“Aitor is a wonderful host who makes you feel like family. Enjoy an insightful tour and a specially prepared dinner; it’s truly an unforgettable experience in Basque Country.”

・“This hidden gem offers incredible food and a warm family atmosphere. The unlimited cider makes it even better. Highly recommend visiting!”

・“The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, finding ways to communicate despite the language barrier. A lovely afternoon that I would happily revisit.”

3.0km (1.85mi) from Iraeta 

3.4km (2.12mi) from Zestoa - Arroabea, Highway

 Bidea Astotxiki, 4, 20740 Zestoa, Gipuzkoa, Spain 

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