31 October 2023 | Tourism
Holidays in the Basque country, west coast of France
The Basque Coast is a region cradled by the Atlantic ocean which extends up to 160 kilometers long from the border between France and Spain. A very pleasant corner with a rich culture, gastronomy, and incredible landscapes.
Breathtaking places
The Basque Coast is a diverse region that enchants visitors with its beaches and magnificent landscapes and locations. From Biarritz, the most famous spot which attracts a large number of surfers to the mountains that can be seen in the distance, the choice of activities and panoramas are very varied on the Basque Coast.
For lovers of hiking, you can enjoy the small trails, waterfalls and views of the ocean.
The Basque Country is famous for its steep cliffs and summits, such as the summit of La Rhune, which overlooks and offers an exceptional panorama of the Basque Coast.
Basque cultures and traditions
The Basque Coast has unique traditions and cultures. Like for example Basque pelota, the traditional sport practiced and much loved.
Euskara a pre-Indo-European language, the traditional festivals "Fête de Bayonne" which celebrates Basque culture.
Basque architecture is a cultural feature, with its red and white half-timbered houses throughout the region.
A popular gastronomy
A paradise for gourmets with its fresh and quality products, with an abundance of seafood: fish, shellfish.
The Espelette pepper, which you probably know, is an emblematic ingredient that brings a spicy touch to dishes.
You will also find pintxos: these are tapas, served in bars and restaurants. All accompanied by a glass of regional wine.
Finally, without forgetting the Basque cake, a traditional pastry with almond or black cherry cream, a must for cake lovers.
Picturesque towns not to be missed
Passing through Biarritz famous for its beaches, it is an emblematic seaside resort. Bayonnne, inland, renowned for its architectural heritage. But also Saint-Jean de Luz, with its half-timbered houses and its promenade along the ocean.
Excursions and activities
Explore the surrounding area, the Basque countryside, the prehistoric caves, and the numerous nature reserves such as the Marais d'Orx Nature Reserve to observe the wildlife.
Discover the surrounding wine estates, where you can enjoy tastings and tours. You can also discover the region's wine: txakoli, produced locally.
Prehistoric caves of Sare: Located 20 km from Saint-Jean de Luz, explore these fascinating caves to discover rock paintings dating back thousands of years. Open all year round, in the heart of the Rhune massif.
Ainhoa: named one of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country but also in France. On the border of the province of Labourd and Navarre, a few kilometers from Espelette and Sare. You will find the village of Ainhoa with its white and red colored facades of its typical houses.
This bastide was originally created to welcome pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela. In the surrounding area you will find walks with the opportunity to discover the Aubépine chapel (45 min walk is necessary to reach it from the village), streams and undergrowth. The chapel will offer you a magnificent panorama of the Xareta valley, the Rhune and the Ocean.
In the surroundings: Saint-Jean-Pied de Port - fortified city Saint-Jean-Pied de Port is a pleasant village, with old houses, country walks along the Nive whose waters reflect magnificent loggia facades.
You will also find all the flavors of the Basque Country, at the unmissable farmers' market, as well as good restaurants and addresses that have made the village famous.
On the craft side, certain know-how has been brought up to date (espadrilles made and sewn by hand, pottery, jewelry, etc.).
