The 4 Best Viewpoints at Salto del Nervión
The area around the Salto del Nervión features several overlooks offering spectacular views of the canyon and the waterfall. Depending on the spot you choose, the perspective changes completely. Some overlooks are easily accessible from Monte Santiago, while others require slightly longer hikes. Choosing the right overlook can make all the difference in your experience. Remember that it’s important to maintain a safe distance, as some of the spots we’ve mentioned aren’t equipped or protected, so they can be dangerous, especially for children.
Salto del Nervión Lookout (Main)
This is the main overlook, the best-known and most-visited spot. From here, you get the clearest view of the waterfall, and it is also the closest point to the falls. It is also the most accessible overlook, as it can be reached via an easy trail from the Monte Santiago area.
Rubén Corner (viewpoint on the loop road)
The Esquina Rubén overlook offers one of the most expansive views of the canyon. From this vantage point, it’s hard to see the waterfall, but it allows us to appreciate the scale of the surroundings and the shape of the canyon in its entirety. It’s a common stop for hikers who choose to take the Monte Santiago loop trail. It’s also a regular stop on our excursions and guided tours.
Arrieta Lookout (between the main lookout and Esquina de Rubén)
Between the main overlook and the Esquina Rubén overlook, there are several spots offering incredible views of the canyon. This is one of them. It’s easy to spot because it stands out clearly from the rest of the ledge. From here, you get a different perspective, combining the proximity to the waterfall with a panoramic view of the canyon.
Nerea Behatokia (front view)
This viewpoint offers a completely different perspective, as it allows us to see the Salto del Nervión head-on. It is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular spots from which to view the waterfall. To reach this viewpoint, you must take the trail from Untzaga or the trail from Monte Santiago and cross the riverbed at the upper part of the river, weather permitting.
Which viewpoint to choose
The choice of viewpoint depends on the type of tour you’d like to take. If you’re looking for something simple, the main viewpoint is more than enough. If you want a more comprehensive experience, the best option is to combine several viewpoints into a single route. This way, you’ll be able to see the waterfall from different angles. If you decide to book one of our guided tours or excursions, you don’t have to worry about this—we’ll take care of planning the route so you can enjoy the best viewpoints in the area.
A hassle-free option
If you don’t want to worry about choosing a route or scenic overlooks, you can opt for an organized tour or a guided tour. This way, you can be sure to visit the best scenic overlooks based on the group’s needs and the weather conditions. If you’re interested in these options, we recommend reading our post about the tour from Bilbao and the one about group tours.