Beautiful Basque Country

Even though the Basque region straddles both southwestern France and northwestern Spain, the borders of the area have been determined by nature herself: The Pyrenees Mountains to the south and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the River L'Adour in Bayonne (near Biarritz) to the north.

The Basque region is a pastiche of small towns, many of them in the mountains, a few cities, most of them near the Atlantic coast, green rolling hillsides and sandy beaches.

What is the heart and soul of the Basque country, for so long a "land between countries", lying as it does in both the south of France and the north of Spain?

It is a mix of contrasts of carefree surfers and beachcombers along the ocean and harder-to-get-to-know mountain people that make this region have an authenticity that is hard to beat. Scratch beneath the surface and get to know a Basque or two during a stay here and you'll be glad you did, since they live life to its fullest.

While this may sound like hyperbole, it is the contrasts of the culture between the French and Spanish (melded together nicely over centuries) and the differences in geography from those who fish the sea and those who tend herds in its mountains that make the region so unique.

So splash (or surf) in the ocean (Biarritz is the surfing capital of Europe!), hike in the Basque mountains of the Pyrenees; taste its caught-today seafood or its incomparable Bayonne hams (there is a higher concentration of Michelin starred restaurants in this region than anywhere else in the world!), and take a step back into time where life is simpler, purer, and more authentic.

Whether you are an art lover, a foodie, a surfer or a hiker, you will find plenty to enjoy in Basque Country. The beauty of A Season Away is that your time is your own. Take a picnic out into the countryside or plan a special evening out at a gourmet restaurant with a special vintage wine. With your own "home base" you will be perfectly set up to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

As the days unwind on your holiday, you'll find yourself slowing down and discovering the joy of country life in Basque Country.

Major cities in Basque Country include: Biarritz, St. Jean de Luz and Bayonne in France and San Sebastian, Bilbao and Pamplona in northern Spain.

The Basque Country is ideal for a family reunion, friends traveling together or a couple seeking to immerse themselves in the region.

Read more below and visit the links to the right to discover more about the Basque Country. Enjoy.

Kevin Abell
President, A Season Away

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Where is the Basque Country?

Not well known by American tourists, Biarritz is the surfing capital of Europe, known locally as the Southern California of France. But it's not all surfer dudes in VW mini-vans! It is an area in southwest France proud of its independent Basque roots. Local history, interesting wines and hard cider, mouth-watering food that takes from the best of France and Spain, scenic villages and colorful markets all blend to create a sense of authenticity that is refreshing in the "been there, done that" world. If you take the time to explore this area, you will be warmly welcomed and likely make friendships that last a lifetime.

Map of Basque Country [courtesy ciboure-holidays.com]

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.

Surf's 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.

Learn about the custom excursions we can create for you in the Basque Region