Relaxed 9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Description
Uncover the beauty of Spain on this 9-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Bilbao, Villaescusa, Solares, Santoña, Castro-Urdiales, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Sukarrieta, Bermeo, Getxo, and Portugalete. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Spain at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bilbao, Villaescusa, Solares, Santoña, Castro-Urdiales, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Sukarrieta, Bermeo, Getxo, and Portugalete. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Bilbao and 4 nights in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Spain.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Spain. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bilbao, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Spain and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Spain with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Spain.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Spain. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Guggenheim Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cabarceno Natural Park.
Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Vizcaya Bridge. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Spain's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Spain.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Spain. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Spain's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Spain.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Spain. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Spain. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Spain and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Bilbao - arrival day
- Bilbao - Arrival day
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- Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Bilbao, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bilbao and begin your adventure in Spain.
Bilbao is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Federico Moyúa Enparantza or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bilbao. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Viña del Ensanche, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Marinela jatetxea offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Boss Bilbao, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stromboli Taberna, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Bilbao as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Bilbao
- Bilbao
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Drive 18 km, 48 min
- Artxanda Funicular
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bilbao. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bilbao. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Bilbao!
Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a breathtaking, a photogenic, a masterful, and an idyllic. Start at the underrated Artxanda Funicular, an awe-inspiring tramway in Bilbao. Next, go to Guggenheim Museum.
After visiting Artxanda Funicular and Guggenheim Museum, take time to explore Bilbao's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Puppy. This gorgeous art installation offers a unique experience. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, one of the most peaceful places to visit in Bilbao.
Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!
Day 3 – Bilbao
- Bilbao
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
- Parque Etxebarria
- Zubizuri
- Artxandako funikularra Geltokia
- Puppy
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!
Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Europa Parkea. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Etxebarri Parkea, one of the city’s most often recommended attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Zubizuri. This enchanting art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Furnicular Bottom Station, an underrated tramway, and take a stroll around the area.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bilbao offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Exploring the food culture in Bilbao offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gaztandegi taberna, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Bar Bilbao, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Laga jatetxea, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!
Day 4 – Bilbao, Villaescusa, Solares, Santoña, Castro-Urdiales, and Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Bilbao
- Villaescusa
- Solares
- Santoña
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Drive 278 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Cabarceno Natural Park
- Puppy
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Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Villaescusa and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Solares and the town of Santoña. You’ll stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz for 4 nights.
When you’ve had your share of Bilbao, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Villaescusa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cabarceno Natural Park, a spectacular safari park that draws visitors from near and far.
Set your GPS to Solares and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Solares beckons with new experiences!
Head to Mitológico Mina Pepita Park, a frequently visited park in Solares.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santoña. This car ride takes around 25 min.
Juan De La Cosa Memorial is an often recommended monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
In the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Vitoria-Gasteiz, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Vitoria-Gasteiz by booking a table at Zabala, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Riojana Restaurante, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Vitoria-Gasteiz’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soho Vitoria-cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Taberna Txustarra offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Aldapa Taberna, another top-rated bar in the area.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.
Day 5 – Vitoria-Gasteiz and Elorriaga
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Drive 7 km, 37 min
- Parque Salburua
- Artium Museum
- Santa Maria Cathedral
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
- Plaza España
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Vitoria-Gasteiz and visit amazing attractions in Elorriaga and Vitoria-Gasteiz destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Vitoria-Gasteiz. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Discover a day packed with a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a monumental, a majestic, a romantic, and a breathtaking in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Begin your sightseeing with Artium Museum. This locally appreciated museum is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, another must-visit attraction that enhances the hamlet’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Vitoria-Gasteiz, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This popular public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Nueva Square, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’ve had your share of Vitoria-Gasteiz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Elorriaga. Your travel time is around 9 min.
Begin your journey at Salburua and explore the enchanting features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
Exploring the food culture in Vitoria-Gasteiz offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Savor the flavors at VITTORIABAR club, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar Txiki beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zaldiaran. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Vitoria-Gasteiz tonight.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Vitoria-Gasteiz and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!
Day 6 – Vitoria-Gasteiz and Aretxabaleta
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria
- La Florida
- Museo de Bellas Artes de Álava
- Olárizu
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Vitoria-Gasteiz will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.
Get ready for an exciting day in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a church, and a museum. Begin your adventure at Martin Deunako Parkea. This is a beloved park you should not miss. Another must-see is Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria, a curiosity-inducing church in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to La Florida. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museo De Bellas Artes De Álava, another of the city’s beloved attractions.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz and set your GPS to Aretxabaleta. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 10 min. Upon reaching Aretxabaleta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Head to Olárizu, an often recommended park in Aretxabaleta. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Vitoria-Gasteiz and your accommodation.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Vitoria-Gasteiz has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Escotilla, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafetería El Pregón offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, El Corte Inglés is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 7 – Vitoria-Gasteiz and Arriaga
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Drive 21 km, 59 min
- Vitoria's Green Ring
- Zabalgana parkea ERAZTUN BERDEA
- Armentiako zelaiak
- Armentiako parkea (Eraztun berdea)
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Vitoria-Gasteiz and beyond. With 1 night left in Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Today's adventure in Vitoria-Gasteiz promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Vitoria's Green Ring. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Zabalgana Parkea, another picturesque attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Armentiako Parkea (eraztun Berdea). This visually striking park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’ve had your share of Vitoria-Gasteiz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arriaga. Your travel time is around 6 min.
Begin your journey at Arriagako Donibane Parkea and explore the enchanting features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Erkiaga taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Portalón is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tximiso Taberna. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Vitoria-Gasteiz tonight.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Vitoria-Gasteiz and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 8 – Vitoria-Gasteiz, Urkiola, Sukarrieta, Bermeo, Getxo, and Portugalete
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Sukarrieta
- Bermeo
- Bilbao
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Drive 167 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Urkiola parke naturala
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Urkiola and drive in the direction of the village of Sukarrieta for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Urkiola. Some of the hamlet’s most loved attractions await.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Urkiola. This car ride takes around 33 min.
Begin your journey at Urkiola Parke Naturala and explore the eye-catching features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sukarrieta, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Urkiola to Sukarrieta may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sukarrieta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, an interesting nature reserve known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.
Bermeo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sukarrieta behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Bermeo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage, an often recommended church that draws visitors from near and far.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bilbao. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Make sure to book a table at El Globo taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at La Barraca jatetxea, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurante Pentxo. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bilbao tonight.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Bilbao as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!
Day 9 – Bilbao - departure day
- Bilbao - Departure day
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- Albiako Lorategiak
- Puppy
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bilbao.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bilbao is the remarkable Albiako Lorategiak. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,208 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bilbao or just grab something light to keep you going.
Savor the flavors at Kirol jatetxea, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arpiku beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bilbao and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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