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Exploring Gros: The Trendiest Neighbourhood in San Sebastián
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Gros has quickly become one of the most exciting and creative neighbourhoods in San Sebastián, and staying at Hotel Punta Monpas places you right at its edge. With Zurriola Beach as its centrepiece and streets filled with cafés, surf shops, bars, and boutiques, Gros offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that blends modern style with authentic Basque culture.
Start your exploration along Zurriola Beach, known for its energetic surf scene and youthful vibe. Each day you’ll see surfers heading out early, families enjoying the promenade, and locals gathering on the seawall to watch the sunset. From Hotel Punta Monpas, it’s only a few steps to this wide open beach, making Gros one of the city’s best areas for outdoor living.
The streets around the beach are filled with independent cafés and bakeries offering everything from specialty coffee to homemade pastries. Whether you prefer breakfast on a terrace or a quiet corner indoors, Gros has plenty of relaxed options to start your morning near the hotel.
One of Gros’s biggest attractions is its food culture. While the Old Town often receives the most attention, many of San Sebastián’s most creative pintxo bars are found right here. Visitors can enjoy traditional Basque bites alongside modern, inventive dishes that showcase fresh local ingredients. The neighbourhood also has excellent restaurants serving seafood, grills, fusion cuisine, and vegetarian options, giving diners plenty of choice.
Shopping in Gros is equally enjoyable. Small boutiques, local designers, surf stores, and artisan workshops line the streets, creating a perfect environment for finding one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re looking for surf gear, handmade jewellery, clothing, or local products, Gros offers a refreshing change from typical high-street shopping.
The culture of the neighbourhood is shaped by creativity and community. Art murals, small theatres, cultural centres, and music events appear throughout the year. The Kursaal Congress Centre sits just on the border between Gros and the river, offering concerts, conferences, exhibitions, and film screenings. Its modern architecture has become one of San Sebastián’s most recognised landmarks.
Nature enthusiasts will find Gros to be an ideal starting point for scenic walks. Monte Ulía rises just behind the neighbourhood, offering hiking paths and panoramic views over the coastline. Whether you want a short stroll or a longer coastal walk, Ulía provides one of the best outdoor experiences in the city.
Despite its modern atmosphere, Gros maintains a welcoming, local feel. Residents gather in the squares, enjoy late-afternoon drinks at open-air terraces, and celebrate events throughout the year. Evenings are relaxed, the food scene is exceptional, and the energy stays vibrant without feeling overwhelming.
Returning each night to Hotel Punta Monpas allows visitors to enjoy Gros at its best. With the beach on one side and the neighbourhood’s cafés, bars, and shops on the other, the hotel offers a perfect balance of comfort and convenience for travellers who want to experience San Sebastián like a local.