Alazne Bilbao
About Alazne Bilbao
Alazne Bilbao, a native of Bilbao, entered the world of fashion after winning a modeling contest organized at the stand of a well-known magazine during Cibeles Madrid Fashion Week in 2008. It was a joyful moment that came while she was a student of law and economics. Her greatest achievement: being named the “best model” of the Madrid runway in September 2010.
Standing at 1.80 meters tall with striking green eyes, Alazne Bilbao is one of the most successful Spanish models today. This young woman from Bilbao is very clear about it: one of the most important qualities in a model is to have personality and strength. A fan of swimming, she usually walks and runs between runway shows to stay in shape.
She has green eyes, is 1.80 meters tall, and her measurements are 85-60-90.
She has walked the runway for designers such as Sonia Rykiel, TCN, Francis Montesinos, Ángel Schlesser, Kina Fernandez, Elio Berhayer, Hanníbal Laguna, and Adolfo Domínguez.
She has also been the face of campaigns for Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Dim, Holly Preppy, 3 Suisses, Springfield, and more…
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Alazne, what would you say to someone who doesn’t know Bilbao to encourage them to visit us?
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It’s funny—usually, when I do interviews because of my work, people are quite surprised that my last name matches the name of the city where I was born, Bilbao. That’s when I start a conversation with them about my beloved city.
I like to try to convey to people abroad the wonders of Bilbao: how it’s nestled between mountains, close to the coast, near France, and well connected, including its airport (La Paloma, designed by architect Santiago Calatrava).
Without a doubt, I tell them about Frank Gehry’s creation, the Guggenheim Museum, which has become an icon of the city, and of course, I tempt them with our fantastic gastronomy.
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What do you miss the most when you’re away from Bilbao?
Of course, I miss my family, its people, the pintxos, and the lively atmosphere of its streets. I miss the tranquility of this city — it feels like you’re never as safe as when you’re at home.
Moreover, Bilbao is full of historic manor houses that contrast with the modern architecture that has transformed the old industrial town into a carefully designed, organized, and clean work of art. Every time I return from my travels, I discover new buildings, shops, and restaurants. In recent years, it has become a very cosmopolitan and attractive city.
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How would you spend a perfect day in Bilbao?
I love walking around Bilbao — you can get around quickly on foot, by metro, tram, or bicycle.
I also enjoy going to the Old Town and getting lost among its seven streets, although I spend most of my time in the center of the city.
The new Alhóndiga offers many opportunities and alternatives; honestly, I’m especially enthusiastic about its terrace, among other things, since terraces are becoming more and more common in Bilbao.
On the other hand, when I need to escape and relax, I can’t find a better place than the innovative Club UP. They’ve managed to transform the old Teatro Ayala into a gym-spa with fantastic facilities, including pools with colorful lights.
Bilbao is one of the most important cities in Spain’s cultural scene, offering a wide range of cultural activities.
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And a perfect night? Where would you have dinner and go for a drink?
Nowadays, since I’m in the final stages of my Law degree at the University of Deusto, I don’t have much time to go out, although I’m very keen on trying anything new. There is a constant renewal in the hospitality sector, and I must say I enjoy discovering new flavors and, naturally, international cuisines.
Some of my favorite places include the pastry shop La Canela and Bar Capuccino, which offer dishes in the purest Egyptian style, as well as others like the new Japanese restaurant Miu.
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Is there any little-known spot in Bilbao that you would recommend?
The truth is, there aren’t many places unknown to the public because in Bilbao news doesn’t just spread — it flies. Personally, I recommend Doña Casilda Park; it’s becoming more and more well-kept every day, and the entire estuary area has undergone an incredible and positive transformation.
It’s also worth visiting the beaches around Getxo, Las Arenas, and the waves at Sopelana, among others — as long as the weather allows.
