I've just came back from 5 days in Bilbao and we decided to stay at Moana Surf Camp ! The place…read morelooks very traditional, "basque country" style, which gives it a very warm and welcoming touch. Outside, you have everything you need to have fun with a skateboard, too bad that period is over for me ;) The owner is very friendly and helpful, although 100% spanish speaking...but after a few minutes, language barrier is barely a problem. Laidback would be a keyword to describe the camp, it's clean and what you get for what you pay is very good. We booked a room for 2, and got a room for 8 for the same price, although very simple, beds, sheets and 1 cupboard. 2 things though : 1 - They could definitely improve the breakfast (have some fresh bread for example) 2 - The camp is situated in Urduliz, 10min drive from the first interesting surf spot (Plentzia or Sopelana)...so you definitely need a car to move around. In all a very cool, relaxed, friendly place to stay for a few days off !

Speaking of bad hotel rooms, this place takes the cake. Listed as a 2* hotel, this establishment is…read morereally smelly little hostel. Some of the rooms have private bathrooms, but they are utilitarian at best. There is minimal signage in the building, the rooms are located on the 3rd floor. We didn't stay long. One quick look at the room, the odor was overwhelming. The windows offer no relief from the heat, they are screwed shut. They do bring in a wet dog aroma from the dirty Astro turf on the enclosed balconette. There is no Air Conditioning. There also was not an attendant at the desk when we walked back out. Just a little sign saying when the desk staff would be back. They share staffing with another location. (Something I do not believe is allowed in 2* lodging BTW). I wouldn't stay here on a bet. F- and $170 wasted. I was rather surprised given that I understand this is a recommended stay by the Rick Steves team.

Staying right in the middle of Bilbao's Casco Viejo is great. Food, drinks, small businesses and…read moreinteresting sightseeing is all within a few minutes walk. Large rooms with giant bathrooms. Really small towels. Beds were soft, but we endured. Really low price for a quiet, efficient place. Multiple keys for the security of the room was a total nuisance. Special codes for the front door were not explained clearly and we ended up locked out of the building. Parking is at the train station (long walk uphill) and really is inconvenient. Limited access to the hotel as the streets do not allow cars for about 20 hours per day. Communication skills of the staff was marginal. Lots of young folks with only a few with knowledge. Really a hostel with private baths.