Great Reasons to Visit the Basque Country
Three countries in one visit, you’ll stay in France, visit Spain and be submersed in the Basque County culture throughout. 3 distinct destinations that meld together to create one fantastic experience!
- Authenticity. For those who have “been there, done that” in the main cities and areas of Europe, the Basque Country is a refreshing change of pace. From the chic beachside resorts to tapas hopping in San Sebastian, from visiting mountain villages to unbelievably fun people, the Basque Country deserves to be on your “bucket list”.
- Food. There is the highest concentration of Michelin starred restaurants in this region than anywhere else on the planet, even more than in France that developed the Michelin system! And if you don’t tend to “frou-frou” food, almost anywhere you go you’ll have a memorable, delicious meal.
- Surfs Up. On the French side of the Basque Country, Biarritz is considered the surfing capital of Europe. Take surfing lessons. Better yet, teach your kids how to surf! If athletics isn’t your thing, we know of some amazing beach bars where you can catch a buzz and watch the surfers at work!
- Take a cooking class. We know this great chef in Biarritz who will take you to the market, even give you some fresh seafood and sinfully ply you with a nip of wine before 10 am and then head to his home for a wonderful, fun cooking class. Not your style? Try it and we’ll make a believer out of you. If you still aren’t buying it, do it for your significant other! You’ll have a great time.
- Hiking. The Pyrenees Mountains are at your doorstep and offer everything from easy strolls to challenging hikes, many with views of the sea.
- Meet the locals. We offer opportunities to meet the locals and really get to know what makes them and this great region tick.
- Tapas. OK, you’ve probably been to a tapas bar in your area before for some Spanish snacks. But have you ever been to San Sebastian’s old town where there are 100 tapas bars in a small area and the “game” is to have a snack at each, tasting the best few snacks at each? Fun, fun, fun.
- Pelote. Never heard of it? Don’t blame you. It is what those in the US know as jai lai, and you can not only see the game in action on local courts throughout the region, but we can arrange a lesson or two for the enthusiast. It’s not as easy as is looks!
- Chocolate. Bayonne is known for several things - the bayonet (get it?), their superb ham that rivals that of Parma in Italy, and chocolate. The chocolate here is different from the fancy stuff in Belgium. It is . . . superb.
- Great Time. The best reason to visit this area is you will be charmed by its people, its food, its authenticity, its diversity between the sea and mountains, all of which leads to a great time for everyone from foodies to family reunions, from honeymooners to couples traveling together.
