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Getting married in your 60s is more common than some people think as is using an over 60 dating website. That means more and more people are planning honeymoons that suit their needs as an older newlywed couple. While most people in their 60s are still spry and healthy, some of the world’s more adventurous and far-flung destinations might not be ideal.

For 60-something couples, the priorities for a honeymoon are usually more about delicious food, a short flight, luxury accommodation, and great weather. We can’t think of anywhere more perfect than San Sebastián.

Located in the Basque region of Northern Spain, this small city is a jewel nestled in a stunning bay on the Atlantic coast. While it attracts plenty of visitors for its lovely beaches (including the best urban beach in Europe), San Sebastián is all about fantastic food and drink. Known as one of the world’s best culinary destinations and the epicentre of pintxos culture, this is a city of arts, culture, and culinary wonders.

We think that San Sebastián is a wonderful destination for honeymooners in their 60s because everything is accessible on foot within a very small radius. While you can hike and surf to your heart’s content (if that’s what floats your boat), you can also have a wonderfully relaxing and decadent honeymoon here, surrounded by likeminded people who love fine food and good wine.

Eating and Drinking in San Sebastián

People tend to come to San Sebastián for one reason – to eat! Food culture in the Basque region is centred around Pinxtos, small plates or bites of food that are served up at relaxed bars dotting the Old Town, New Town and Gross neighbourhoods.

San Sebastián is known for having the most bars and restaurants per square metre in the world. You are never more than a few metres away from the next gem offering spectacular fresh seafood, preserved fish, fried specialities and decadent meat. Make sure you don’t miss Borda Berri (you must try the beef cheeks), San Telma (just try everything – you can’t go wrong), and Gandarias the steak and wild mushroom risotto is to die for).

Of course, San Sebastián is also known for having a plethora of Michelin starred restaurants. Make sure you book early to avoid disappointment at famous options like Arzak, Kokotxa, and Mugaritz.

Relax at the La Perla Spa

Named after the spectacular La Perla beach, the La Perla spa is one of the most magnificent Art Deco spas in all of Europe. You can book from a menu of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, but the real delight is found in the spa. Home to a complex yet relaxing system of thalassotherapy treatment pools and jets, this is an experience you won’t forget.

Revel in the arts and culture

San Sebastián is home to many small galleries and artist’s studios, but of course, the big draw is one hour away in Bilbao. The Guggenheim in Bilbao is one of the world’s most famous art galleries, and no trip to the Basque region would be complete without an afternoon here. In San Sebastián itself, you will also find the recently renovated San Telmo Museum, which showcases the region’s fascinating Basque history.

Where to stay on a honeymoon in San Sebastián

From luxurious Air Bnbs to 5-star hotels, San Sebastián has many options for a discerning couple on their honeymoon.

Akelarre

If you are looking for a wonderful honeymoon hotel in San Sebastián, look no further than Akelarre. The sweeping views this hotel over the Bay of Biscay are known as some of the best in the region, and the service is bar none. But the real draw is its three-Michelin-star restaurant, the brainchild of chef Pedro Subijana.

Villa Soro

Located on the edges of San Sebastián, this is a boutique hotel that simply drips with vintage class. The staff are dressed in period costumes and the furnishings are reminiscent of a Tudor estate. Known for its gorgeous local food, Villa Soro is affordable yet chic, the perfect option for any honeymooning couple. 

Hotel María Cristina

This magnificent Belle Epoque hotel was opened in 1912, and has catered to the world’s most elite guests ever since. The rooms have been refreshed and renovated, but the classic charm of the Hotel María Cristina is simply timeless. Located on the border between the Old Town and New Town, this hotel puts you right in the heart of the action.