Honours Even in the Basque Region: A Memorable Manchester United Away Trip

Manchester United, despite their challenging season, remain the only team unbeaten in any European Cup competition this season. Following their 4-1 win against Real Sociedad, the stage is set for an exciting Quarter Final in Lyon. My journey to San Sebastián to watch the first-leg was nothing short of fantastic, filled with warm hospitality, incredible cuisine and breathtaking scenery.

My adventure started in Lisbon with a quick 45-minute flight to Bilbao. From there, a lively coach full of Manchester United fans embarked on an hour-long drive to San Sebastián in the Basque Country. The (what I imagine) usual tranquility of the coach was replaced by the energetic chanting of fans, leaving a few tourists on board both surprised and amused. Upon arrival in this picturesque town near the French border, we were greeted by sunshine and a pleasant 22 degrees, a welcome surprise for those like myself, who had packed their jackets anticipating rain.

Before checking into my accommodation, I decided to stroll through the old town, drawn to a bar that was highly recommended. Dining alone, I was told the menu featured just three dishes, tomatoes, peppers and steak. Expecting a light lunch, I was instead treated to half a cow! The portions were generous, to say the least, and provided more than enough energy for the day's antics.

One of the joys of European away trips is running into familiar faces from previous matches. Sharing a pint or two, or more, with fellow fans in a new setting always adds to the excitement of exploring a foreign city. The camaraderie among fans is a highlight of these trips, creating lasting memories and friendships.

On the day of the match, we spent the morning wandering through the old town, indulging in local delicacies and drinks before making our way to the stadium. The atmosphere was lively, with minimal segregation between fans, and the locals were more welcoming than anything else. Despite the logistical challenges of travelling from Manchester on short notice, the away end was bouncing, which beats the initial speculation that the away end might be empty.

The first half saw Manchester United dominate, and their efforts were rewarded in the second half until a penalty was awarded for a handball, resulting in a 1-1 draw. While the draw felt almost like a loss, United secured a comfortable win in the return fixture, setting up a match against Lyon.

After the match, we embarked on a bar-hopping adventure from the stadium, eventually finding ourselves in a Real Sociedad bar. To our surprise, we were welcomed with open arms, a testament to the warm hospitality of the Basque people. It was during this evening that I discovered the Kalimocho, a drink I had never heard of before visiting the Basque region. This refreshing mix of cola and red wine is sure to become a summer favorite.

The Basque Country is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich traditions, and stunning landscapes. From the picturesque villages to the bustling cities like San Sebastián, there is a unique blend of modernity and heritage.

Basque cuisine is celebrated for its simplicity, freshness, and bold flavours. Pintxos, small tapas-like snacks, are a staple of Basque dining, offering a wide range of flavours and textures. For those with a sweet tooth, the Basque Cheesecake is a delightful treat, known for its creamy texture and caramelised crust.

My trip to San Sebastián was an unforgettable experience, combining the excitement of football with the rich cultural heritage and culinary delights of the Basque region. Whether you're a football fan or simply looking to explore a new destination, the Basque Country has something for everyone.