DESTINATION BILBAO

By Frans Rombouts

Bilbao is located in the middle of wonderful vast natural spaces like the Cantabric Coast and its mountains. It is only 15 minutes away from the International Airport, the sports harbour, a quay with luxury cruise ships and several golf courses, and 45 minutes from the spectacular vineyards of the “La Rioja” wine region.

Add to all this some special venues like the Guggenheim Museum, some outstanding conference locations and top-quality hotels, and you have a superb conference and incentive town.

VIZCAYA
Thanks to a warm humid maritime climate, with a yearly average of 14.5ºC and only small temperature fluctuations the vegetation tapestry is always green. The winters are cool and the summers warm with an abundance of sea breezes.
With its surface area of 2,217 square kilometres, Vizcaya looks onto the piece of water it gives its name to, the Bay of Biscay. It not only has a pretty coastline but also attractive mountains, giving rise to a great variety of landscapes throughout the length and breadth of the territory.

The valleys are predominantly exposed to moist gentle westerly winds that caress the mountains that reach right down to the sea. This forms an abrupt shoreline of cliffs, sprinkled with small islands and with inlets that make river estuaries, some of which are quite big, as the ones at Gernika and Bilbao.

BILBAO
Bilbao , like many others cities in the world, is situated on the banks of a river. The Nervión supplies drinking water as well water for irrigation and inshore fishing. In addition, with the passing of time, the estuary has proved to be best means of communication with the exterior.
At the beginning there were two settlements of different character. On the left bank, or Old Bilbao, were the miners and iron-workers, and on the right bank the ‘ Old City’, the busy mercantile port. Theses two were united by San Anton Bridge.
Very little is known about the earliest history of the town. What is sure, however, is that the Bilbainos –the Bilbao inhabitants- had contact with the Normans in the 9th century.
During the 12th and 13th centuries, Bilbao became a major commercial port. Before the 15th century Bilbao had already gained an important economic status, because it was the main distribution point of Castilian products bound for the North Sea and vice versa. This position as commercial crossroads was decisive in the foundation of the ‘Villa of Bilbao’ with its own authorities, laws and municipal charter with a series of privileges for those who came to live within its walls. Bilbao owned exclusive rights over all navigational and commercial activity in the estuary. Upon this strong basis, institutions and commercial activity flourished alike.

For three hundred years two institutions dictated the Bilbaino way of life: the Town Hall and the Consulate (1511-1829). They controlled all maritime and onshore life, both civil and commercial. This governing body became so important that in the 17th century Bilbainos had their own Contracting House in Bruges, in order to do business in Belgium.

The integration of Bilbao into the Way to Santiago de Compostela brought new cultural and artistic impulses to the area. Those pilgrims, travelling along The Way, also brought new sources of income to the Villa.

The era that changed the whole destiny of Bilbao was undoubtedly the 19th century. During these one hundred years, Bilbao was designated capital of Vizcaya. Industrial development in the metropolitan area grew in leaps and bounds based on the mining and iron and steel industries, and the same occurred in the shipping and railway companies. In the 50 years between 1841 and 1891 over 1,000 kilometres of track were laid.

The city as it is today, is a comparatively recent invention. Its rapid progress is reflected in the city's architecture; many of its monuments were erected during this same period: the Plaza Nueva, the Arriaga Theatre, the Town Hall...
During the first part of the 20th century Vizcaya reached a high economic peak which saw its culmination in the happy 1920s, based principally upon the sale of iron to England.

Greater Bilbao now boasts over a million inhabitants, with the town itself housing some four hundred thousand. This represents over half of the population of the Basque Country. The region is now growing in a new direction with an impressive number of new projects being carried out. The most spectacular to date has been the Guggenheim Museum. Also other prestigious international architects such as Foster, Pelli, Isozaki, Calatrava and Ganchegui have participated in the numerous innovative architectural and infrastructure projects like the safest and most modern subway system in the world, the modern tramway, the new international airport and the creation of the new leisure area and promenade along the river Nervión.

One of the biggest projects and latest developments of the ‘new Bilbao’ is the Abandoibarra area, located in the heart of the city and until recently a vital centre of the shipyard industry with the estuaries of Euskalduna. The Sheraton Bilbao Hotel, which opened in 2004, is located right in the middle of this prestigious project.
The Abandoibarra area combines business with leisure and culture in a perfect harmony. The revitalisation of this area began with the construction of the Euskalduna Congress and Concert Hall, awarded with the prize of the ‘Best Congress Centre in the World’ in 2003. With its long lyrical tradition Bilbao is known as the opera capital of the Basque country, and the Euskalduna Hall is the place to experience the most important opera performances in the Basque country.

The Old Town called ‘Siete Calles’ (Seven Streets) is one of the main leisure and shopping areas in Bilbao. Its charming, historical pedestrian streets are lined with classic shops, and in its several bars and restaurants visitors can enjoy the best of the high-quality Basque cuisine.

GASTRONOMY
Gastronomy is an art in Bilbao. The capital of the Basque Country has prestigious restaurants offering dishes ranging from traditional cuisine to the most avant-garde culinary creations. Not forgetting, of course, different areas of the city in which to savour the famous ‘ pintxos’, typical appetisers.
The varied menus are always dictated by exquisite taste and by the great quality of the ingredients. It is the cod capital of the world, because of the many delicious recipes that are prepared with the fish.

The cuisine of Biscay enjoys the universal reputation of all Basque cooking, combining the quality of products and the skill of its master chefs. Biscay is especially the land of cod and hake, although other types of fish, local meats and fresh market garden products should not be forgotten.
A good Biscayan menu starts with a Pisto Bilbaino (scrambled eggs with vegetables) or beans from Gernika. It continues with cod (in the Biscay, pil-pil or Club Ranero style) or with meat (from a Berriz T-bone to tripe) and finishes off with Rennet (Cuajada), Pantxineta or local cheeses.
All this can be washed down with local cider or Txakoli, a dry white wine.
Biscay has some of the best Basque restaurants and chefs. Most of them are to be found in Bilbao and the list is extensive. They range from Michelin-starred establishments to traditional restaurants, from the more rural grills to special places offering cider or Txakoli or more homely taverns.

And not to be forgotten are also the ‘pinchos’, ‘tapas’ and ‘banderillas’ paradises that are located in the many wine ‘poteo’ bars in the traditional areas: Casco Viejo, Pozas or Deusto. Here, , before sitting down to dinner, you should try the ‘chiquiteo’, the custom of drinking wine and eating small appetisers in the many bars and taverns of the old quarter.

GUGGENHEIM
Designed by the North American architect Frank O. Gehry, this unique Museum built on a 32,500 m² site in the centre of Bilbao on one side runs down to the banks of the Nervión River, 16 meters below the level of the rest of the city of Bilbao. The other end is pierced through by the huge Puente de La Salve, one of the main access routes into the city.

The building itself is an extraordinary combination of interconnecting shapes. Orthogonal blocks in limestone contrast with curved and bent forms covered in titanium. Glass curtain walls provide the building with the light and transparency it needs. Owing to their mathematical complexity, the sinuous stone, glass, and titanium curves were designed with the aid of computers. The glass walls were made and installed to protect the works of art from heat and radiation. The half-millimetre thick ‘fish-scale’ titanium panels covering most of the building are guaranteed to last one hundred years. As a whole, Gehry's design creates a spectacular, eminently visible structure that has the presence of a huge sculpture set against the backdrop of the city.

When you pass through the hall to the exhibition areas, in the Atrium you already feel the real heart of the Museum and one of the most idiosyncratic features of Gehry's design: kind of metal flower skylight at the top that allows a stream of light to illuminate the warm, inviting space.
The 19 exhibition galleries are organized on three levels around the central atrium and are connected by a system of curving walkways suspended from the roof, glass elevators and stair turrets.

CONFERENCE VENUES
Bilbao is ready to host any kind of convention or professional meeting and to meet all their needs. Historically, the city has played host to many conferences.
In the year 2002, the MICE companies and professionals in Bilbao served more than 500 conventions, bringing together 100,000 participants.

Both in the town and in the area various exhibition and conference venues are available.

• The Bilbao International Exhibition Centre
  The Convention Centre at the Bilbao International Exhibition Centre has more than 4,700 m² available to hold events, conferences and congresses.
  On top there is some 150,000 m² of exhibition space offered by the six BEC pavilions in Barakaldo. The Arena Pavilion stands out among them, with an area of 20,600 m² which can be arranged to fit all types of shows.
  Feria Internacional de Bilbao
  Plaza Pedro Basterretxea, s/n 48013 Bilbao
  Tel. +34-94-428.54.00, fax +34-94-442.42.22
  congresos@feriadebilbao.com, http://www.feriadebilbao.com

• The Euskalduna Concert Hall and Convention Centre was built in 1999. It is a key infrastructure for holding meetings and conventions, occupying 10,000 m² of space.
  With its a large capacity and latest equipment it is considered to be the most modern and best booked congress centre in Spain. It is situated in centre of Bilbao next to the Guggenheim museum and with a beautiful view to the riverside. The A uditorium seats 2,164 and has a stage of 1,770 m², various mobile platforms and an orchestra pit. The Auditorium offers 4 different floors which guarantee a complete view on the stage.
  The A1 Theatre Hall is a fully equipped hall offering seat to 613 people. It counts a surface area of 697 m², divided into 2 different floors, with a stage of 190 m². Furthermore, there are some 12 more room in various sizes, holding from 25 to 270 people. There is 6,000 m² of foyers and lobbies, a car park for 475 vehicles and two restaurants.
  Euskalduna Concert Hall and Convention Centre
  Tel. 94.403.50.00, fax 94.403.50.01
  info@euskalduna.net, http://www.euskalduna.net
  
• Parque Tecnologico
  Based in Zamudio, the Technology Park was set up in 1985 by the public institutions of the Basque Country with a mission to promote diversification in industry and the transfer and diffusion of technology and innovation.
  A pioneer in Spain and model of success, it comprises 190 hectares of privileged natural environment for the use of advanced technology companies, together with excellent communications infrastructure and closeness to the University.
  The Technology Park is an excellent setting for every type of business gathering. Its facilities are particularly designed to accommodate forums, conference meetings, presentations and specialised congresses.
  Parque Tecnologico
  Tel. +34-94-403.95.00, fax +34-94-403.95.10
  parque-tecnologico@parque-tecnologico.net
  http://www.parque-tecnologico.net

• Bidebarrieta Kulturgunea
  At only 50 metres from the Teatro Arriaga and 200 metres from the cathedral of Santiago, the Bidebarrieta Kulturgunea was opened in 1890. The building now houses the Town Archives & Library. It contains an imposing stained glass window that was made in Antwerp.
  The meeting room can hold 274 people.
  Bidebarrieta Kulturgunea
  Tel. +34-94-415.09.15, fax +34-94-415.64.38
  bmoran@ayto.bilbao.net

UNUSUAL INCENTIVE VENUES

• Castillo de Butrón
  It seems to be out of a fairy tale. This marvellous, almost unreal medieval castle is located at some 15 km outside of Bilbao and surrounded by large gardens of 45,000 m². The private castle was built in 1878 by the Marqués de la Torrecilla on grounds of almost 4,000 m². It is ideal for small receptions, celebrations or dinners. Each of the six salons offers space for 10 to 70 people.

• Palacio Artaza
  Palacio Artaza, located in Leioa close to the Getoxa coast, dates from the 19th century and used to be the residences of the Marqués of Triano. In those times, many receptions where held in the palace, and famous visitors from the Spanish Royal family, aristocracy and politics stayed here. Nowadays, this noble and unique flair can still be experienced. Ideal for dinners and receptions are the beautiful gardens and the various salons on the fist floor.

• Finca Bauskain
  On the side of the small village of Markina, 30 minutes away from Bilbao, Finca Bauskain estate is surrounded by 48 hectare of untouched nature and hilly wicker landscape. Because of its special location, the Finca is an ideal place for a dinner or cocktails for up to 800 people.
  

WHAT TO VISIT

• Palacio de Olábarri
  Campo Volantín 37, tel. +34-94-4871200
  Palacio de Olábarri is located in Bilbao's famous Campo Volantín area. This building was once the palace of José María de Olábarri, a late 19th century Bilbao entrepreneur. Since the mid-1950s, the building has been home to the local port authority and is known as Palacete del Puerto Autónomo de Bilbao. Palacio de Olábarri is actually a union of several architectural styles and is a fascinating sight for anyone interested in design.
  
• Estación de Atxuri
  Bailén 2, tel. +34-94-423-2266
  The Estación de Atxuri, Bilbao's main rail station, was opened in the early part of the 20th century. The station's beautiful facade is difficult to miss. Inside, you'll find the Museo Montren, a small museum full of model trains.
  
• Casa Consistorial
  Plaza Ernesto Erkoreka, tel. +34-94-420-4200
  Casa Consistorial, Bilboa's original town hall, was opened in 1892. The building is the work of architect Jaquin Rucoba and is a good example of neo-baroque architecture. Outside, you'll find several statues that honour important figures in Bilboa's long history. Perhaps the most popular of Casa Consistorial's attractions is the Arab Salon, the gorgeous main reception area.
  
• Mercado de la Rivera
  On the bank of the river Nervión
  Spain's largest covered market was built in 1929 on the bank of the River Nervión, and underwent extensive reconstruction following the floods in 1983. Here you'll find numerous vendor stalls offering fresh produce, fish, and meats. The brightly coloured design renders this building a majestic landmark along the shoreline.
  
• Metro Moyúa
  Gran Via
  While a metro station might not seem a likely sightseeing attraction, the innovative architecture and design of this striking facility is most impressive. The system was built to follow the Guggenheim and incorporate the city into the theme. Designed by Norman Foster, the system is relatively new and boasts a contemporary motif. Unlike most metros, the metro stops offer a glimpse of the city while entering, thanks to its transparent shell.
  
• Pasarela Zubizuri
  Located near the Guggenheim, this bridge is quite different from the other bridges in Bilbao, as the structure "bridges" the boundaries of architecture. Enjoy a stroll across the bridge and take in the scenery of the city below. The bridge has a portion of glass along the bottom of the walkway that gives you the sensation of being suspended in and supported by air.
  
• Museo Taurino ( Bullfighting Museum)
  Martín Agüero 1, tel. +34-94-444-8698
  This museum, which is adjacent to a bullring, opened in 1995. Museo Taurino records the history of bullfighting in Bilboa and Vizcaya (Biscay). Here, you'll see several displays of bullfighting costumes, capes, and swords, as well as a unique collection of original posters that served as advertisements for local bullfights. If you are interested in bullfighting, this is a great place to learn a little about the important role it has played in the Basque region.
  
• Palacio Foral
  Gran Via 25, tel. +34-94-420-7777
  Located on Gran Via, the Palacio Foral stands as one of architect Luis Aladren's most beautiful Baroque-style monuments. Outside, the building's stonework and grand facade are the objects of much civic pride. Inside, you'll find lavish décor, including stained glass windows and several paintings
  

WHERE TO EAT

• Begoña
  Virgen de Begoña s/n, tel. +34-94-412-7257
  This restaurant is located in the shadow of Bilbao's Basílica de Begoña. The menu here includes such delights as smoked salmon and spider crab rolls, monkfish served with Dublin Bay prawn, and breast of duck served with natural liver.

• Berme Zortziko
  Alameda de Mazarredo 17, tel. +34-94-423-9743
  This highly recommended restaurant is located in an old mansion on Alameda de Mazarredo, near the Guggenheim. Chef Daniel Garcia continually wows patrons with his eclectic menu, including roast baby squid served with peppers, dorado covered in cockle sauce, and his special scallops served with tomato carpaccio.
  
• Bermeo
  Ercilla 37, tel. +34-94-410-2000
  This traditional Basque restaurant is located in the Hotel Ercilla. It specializes in fish and seafood dishes, including their famous cocochas. The wine list is better than average, and Bermeo is high on the lists of many locals.
  
• Casa Víctor Montés
  Plaza Nueva 8, tel. +34-94--415-5603
  The first thing you'll probably notice upon entering Casa Víctor Montés is the interesting collection of empty bottles that decorate the shelves. The traditional Basque restaurant is a popular weekend dining destination for locals, many of whom privilege the restaurant's meat and fish dishes which are made from the finest ingredients.
  
• El Perro Chico
  Aretxaga 2, tel. +34-94-415-0519
  El Perro Chico is nestled in one of Bilbao's residential areas. The restaurant's interior is painted blue and accented by Spanish tiles, and the high ceilings and large windows give it a very open atmosphere. The dining area offers great views of the river and Casco Viejo. The house specialty is roast duck in orange sauce served with seasonal vegetables. For dessert, try one of the homemade chocolate dishes.
  
• Euskalduna
  Euskalduna 4, tel. +34-94-421-3125
  This spacious restaurant can seat approximately 500 people. Euskalduna is decorated by several pictures dedicated to traditional Basque music, and it has a distinctly contemporary look. Most of the tables here offer excellent views of the nearby park and Guggenheim. The menu is distinctly Basque and includes all of the traditional favourites, including “pimientos rellenos de changurro”.
  
• Guria
  Gran Vía 66, tel. +34-94-441-9013
  Reportedly, the bacalao (dried cod) served here is among the best in Bilbao. The portions are huge, and Guria offers two dining options: the traditional dining area which offers a first-rate a la carte menu or a cafeteria-style dining room where the meals tend to be a little less pricey. Whatever you decide, rest assured that you will enjoy excellent Basque food in a comfortable environment.
  
• Ibaigane
  Navarra 1, tel. +34-94-424-0007
  Located in the Gran Casino Nervión, Ibaigane serves a wide range of excellent Basque meals seven days a week until very late in the evening. The chef prepares the meals with the freshest regional fish, meat, and vegetables. The extensive wine list offers a vintage suitable for any entrée. Be sure to leave room for the homemade desserts.
  
• La Gabarra
  Botica Vieja 18, tel. +34-94-447-7062
  La Gabarra, a local roast-and-cider house, is located near the Guggenheim. The atmosphere and cuisine here is typical of the traditional Basque grill: casual, comfortable, and friendly. The restaurant's open kitchen adds a lot of character to the dining area, and the wood-grilled fish and beef offer savoury aromas that are nearly impossible to resist. Le Gabarra is popular with locals, particularly Bilbao's business crowd.
  
• Mandoya
  Perro 3, tel. +34-94-415-0228
  Located in the historic Old Quarter, Mandoya is a favourite of many of Bilbao's locals and frequent visitors. Mandoya offers a beautiful, yet comfortable dining area and a terrific Basque menu. Their specialties include "ensalada de langosta," lobster salad made with their home grown lobsters. Their grilled meats and cod are also popular.
  
• Victor
  Plaza Nueva 2, tel. +34-94-415-1678
  A staple on the Bilbao restaurant scene for more than 60 years, Víctor offers some of the area's most popular traditional Basque dishes. Inside, you'll find a dining area that is subtly elegant, with traditional décor and furniture. The grilled meat and seafood dishes are particularly well done, and their dessert menu does not disappoint.
  

HOW TO GET THERE
SN Brussels Airlines has direct flights from Brussels to Bilbao, with two flights per day (except on Saturday when there is only one). The flight time is slightly over two hours.

HOTELS
Bilbao boast some outstanding hotels that are ideal for incentive or conference guests. In the five-star segment we were especially enchanted by:

• Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao *****
  The centrally located and only recently opened Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao is one of the most modern hotels in all Spain and surely influenced by the Guggenheim Museum, which is located just across the street. The hotel belongs to the Spanish Silkien hotel chain and disposes of 131 rooms and 14 suites. All rooms have a personal touch and are equipped with the most modern amenities in avant-garde style.

• Hotel Miró *****
  Fashion designer Antonio Miró has created an exquisite space where guests can easily forget that they are in a hotel - it is Spain's "Design Hotel" par excellence. Situated between the Guggenheim and the Museum of Fine Arts, Hotel Miró provides a striking green aluminium and stone façade. The 50-room property combines the best of design and functionality with a maximum of comfort, in relaxed ambience with personalised service.

• Hotel Carlton *****
  The Carlton is the "old traditional" hotel for the Basque high society, and is located at Plaza de Moyua, just a stroll away from the Guggenheim Museum. It was designed in 1926, inspired by the French Beau-Art style, and completely renovated in 1994. The hotel disposes of 155 rooms and 8 antique lounges, which are perfectly suited for any kind of event for up to 400 people.

For further information on Bilbao’s MICE opportunities:
Bilbao Convention Bureau
Tel.: +34-94-479 57 70, fax: +34-94-479 57 71
E-mail: bicb@ayto.bilbao.net