Riberas de Loiola: one of the youngest neighbourhoods in San Sebastian

The new century brought to Donostia the construction of a new neighbourhood located in a strategic enclave: Riberas de Loiola.

A neighbourhood that began to come to life in 2006, when the first homes were delivered and which today is one of the most modern and full of life in the city.

It is surrounded by an enviable natural environment on the banks of the Urumea River, very close to the Cristina Enea Park, which links this neighbourhood directly to the city centre.

If you are looking for peace and quiet, avant-garde architectural design and green spaces, Riberas de Loiola is a must on your tour of the city.

What to visit in Riberas de Loiola

Many might think that as a new neighbourhood, Riberas de Loiola has little to visit, but they would be wrong. In fact, in recent years it has become one of the most attractive places in San Sebastian for those looking for a more residential atmosphere, without being too far from the centre.

Among its main features are its wide promenades and green areas, perfect for relaxing, playing sports or enjoying with the family.

The Cristina Enea park, also, is across the river via the Mikel Laboa pedestrian walkway. This park is one of the city’s lungs, a green space that stretches along the Urumea River, where locals and visitors can enjoy its flora and fauna.

With children’s play areas and walking routes, it is ideal for those looking for a quiet alternative to the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Avant-garde architecture

One of the most striking features of Riberas de Loiola is its modern architecture. As one of San Sebastian’s newest neighbourhoods, avant-garde architecture takes centre stage here.

The buildings have been designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, with innovative façades that contrast with the city’s more traditional constructions.

The open spaces between buildings, parks and promenades are designed to create an environment where living with nature is part of everyday life. This modern and sustainable urban design has made Riberas de Loiola an example of contemporary urban planning in Donosti.

And if there is one modern structure that stands out in this neighbourhood, it is the Church of il Iesu in the Riberas de Loiola neighbourhood. It is located next to the Garden of Memory and was designed by Rafael Moneo, having been inaugurated in 2011.

Walk along the river Urumea

One of the greatest attractions of Riberas de Loiola is its promenade along the Urumea River. This promenade is an invitation to enjoy the tranquillity of the river, with perfect routes for walking, jogging or cycling. Along the promenade, you will find wooded areas and rest areas where you can stop to enjoy the views or simply relax.

The Urumea River is not only a natural element, but also connects the neighbourhood with other areas of the city.

Through the bridges that cross it, it is easy to reach other areas of San Sebastian, such as the neighbourhood of Egia, Amara or El Centro, making Riberas de Loiola a well-connected and accessible neighbourhood.

What to visit nearby

As we have already mentioned, one of the great advantages of Riberas de Loiola is its proximity to other points of interest in the city.

Just a stone’s throw away is the Reale Arena Stadium (also known as Anoeta), home of Real Sociedad and a centre for sporting and cultural events in San Sebastian. If you are a football fan or are interested in attending concerts and events, Anoeta is a place you should visit.

Another neighbourhood nearby is Amara Berri, a residential area that also stands out for its local life and its commercial and gastronomic offer.

Amara Berri is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional Basque meal, with a wide variety of pintxo bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. In addition, its more relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent option for those who want to get to know the daily life of the locals outside the tourist centre.

Discover the Riberas de Loiola neighbourhood

Would you like to get to know this neighbourhood? You can do it on your own or opt for a more fun and complete option, just contact us.