Donostia-San Sebastián is a stunning coastal city in Spain’s Basque Country, famous for its golden beaches, chilled vibe, and incredible food. It’s small, stylish, and safe—perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Teens love the buzzing surf scene at La Zurriola beach, the cool mix of cultures, and the outdoor lifestyle. The city is also big on sustainability, with green spaces and clean transport. And you can’t miss the pintxos—tiny, tasty snacks served all over the city. It’s fun, social, and a delicious way to try local food and experience the culture. Whether you're into beaches, sunsets, or discovering something new, Donostia-San Sebastián has serious travel energy.

Lacunza International House is one of the city’s most trusted language schools, offering high-quality Spanish courses for teens in a safe, friendly environment. Founded in 1989 and part of the prestigious International House network, it’s accredited by Instituto Cervantes, EAQUALS, and IALC, and known for its professional teaching standards. Teens are placed in small classes by level, with regular progress checks and engaging lessons designed for younger learners. With a welcoming atmosphere, supportive staff, and a great location near surf spots and city life, Lacunza is ideal for teens looking to improve their Spanish while experiencing the culture and energy of Donostia-San Sebastián.

While studying in Donostia-San Sebastián, teens can add unforgettable optional extras to their experience. Known for its legendary surf and local love of great food, Donostia-San Sebastián offers beginner-friendly surf lessons at Zurriola Beach and hands-on pintxos-making workshops with local food experts. It’s a city that blends beach life with culinary excellence—home to around 16 Michelin stars—making these add-ons the perfect way to experience its unique culture.

Surfing – Tues & Thurs 1.5 hours per day (£75)
Cooking (Basque cuisine & pintxos) – Tues, 4 hours (£100)
Horse Riding – Tues & Thurs, 2 hours per day + transport to/from the location (£120)

And if the above options aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to have a fantastic time, at no additional cost, from cultural excursions, sports, afternoons at the beach or a visit to one of Spain’s oldest amusement parks.

Flights are direct from Edinburgh Airport, making the journey as stress-free as possible.

Athena has partnered with Travel Counsellors, an award-winning UK-based travel company that provides professional booking services and round-the-clock assistance. This ensures that, should any travel disruption occur, expert support is available to help manage changes and minimise impact on students and families.

The Athena chaperones (1:10 ratio) meet students at the airport and will be on hand for them (and parents!) throughout the week and also accompany them on the return flight home.

Included in the flight price:
Transfers between the arrival airport and the school
20kg baggage allowance

Flight price: £375
Paid directly to Athena as part of the booking process, keeping arrangements simple and straight forward.

Flight details:

Edinburgh - Biarritz, Sunday 26 July, 2026
06.20 - 09.45
Biarritz - Edinburgh, Sunday 2 August, 2026
10.10 - 11.30

Athena students will stay in a modern student residence with big common spaces to hang out, a cafeteria, and comfy twin rooms (each with its own bathroom). Students stay in twin rooms, allocated by age and sex to ensure a safe and comfortable environment. If teens are coming in pairs or small groups, they can request to share a room together, so they can enjoy the experience with friends while still benefiting from our supervised, secure arrangements.

Also staying on campus, are the Athena chaperones to guarantee around-the-clock supervision and safety.

All main meals are included — healthy, tasty, and with plenty of choice. However students will also be encouraged to enjoy (and order!) churros or Basque cheesecake in one of the many nearby cafes, as well as experience an evening in the Old Town ordering world-famous Pintxos — all part of exploring Basque food culture!

18 hours of fun interactive Spanish lessons
7 nights accommodation in a twin room
All meals (with the exception of one evening restaurant meal)
Daily cultural and sporting activities, led by qualified and experienced leaders
An Athena chaperone providing continuous 24-hour welfare support and acting as a direct point of contact for parents
24-hour support from school leaders

Flights are not included in the package price, but booking and payment for flights are part of the Athena service (see flight price under Travel)

£1395 per student (+flights)