When the last bus from Soraluze to Elgoibar left without them, three young people in Gipuzkoa came up with an unusual plan: they bought an inflatable unicorn and set out down the Deba River in the early hours, hoping to get home by water.
After spending the night celebrating in Soraluze, the group had no public transport available. They sealed their phones and documents in plastic bags, entered the river fully clothed and set off on the roughly 10-kilometre journey to Elgoibar.
Unexpected Obstacles
The river journey proved more challenging than expected. The stretch between Soraluze and Elgoibar has rocky sections and small dams, with rapids and drops along the way. An inflatable unicorn designed for calm water was poorly suited to those conditions. The group travelled more than five kilometres before reaching Maltzaga, still about 2.4 kilometres short of their destination.
People along the banks saw the trio navigating the river on the brightly coloured float, prompting surprise and amusement. Some locals speculated about their condition after a night out, while others saw the episode as a harmless, if risky, adventure.
Improvised Route Draws Attention
Rather than wait for another transport option or walk, the group chose the river. Major road connections, including sections of the AP-8 motorway, run through the area, but the trio attempted to make their way home by water.
The journey drew attention to the river’s hazards and the unsuitability of an inflatable toy for navigating it. No injuries were reported, although the unpredictable currents and obstacles posed a risk of accidents.
Journey Ends Short of Goal
After travelling more than five kilometres, the group abandoned the attempt in Maltzaga. Elgoibar was still about 2.4 kilometres away, and the river conditions made it difficult to continue. The episode became a local talking point, with some comparing it to scenes from party films such as Resacón en Las Vegas.
laSexta published images and details of the journey, and the story spread through the region. Soraluze’s local council has previously reported restoration and safety works along the Deba River. The episode also drew attention to the risks of using natural waterways as an improvised route.
The group did not reach Elgoibar, but their attempt to get home by river on an inflatable unicorn became a memorable local story.
