Basque Country: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The French Basque Country is known for its picturesque mountain landscapes. In the Pyrenees, you can rent accommodation and discover idyllic small villages like Ainhoa or Espelette. The famous Basque chili comes from this area. Further down in the lowlands, Biarritz, with its dream beaches, invites you to surf.
Table of contents
Basque Country - The most beautiful cities
Biarritz
In the 19th century, Biarritz evolved from a small fishing village to an exclusive seaside resort and is now one of the top spots for surfers. Wide sandy beaches nestle against the bay, which lies between steep cliffs and a bizarre rocky landscape. A popular place for strolling is the elegant beach promenade. At the old fishing port, lively street restaurants promise culinary delights. While surfers frolic in the bay of Biarritz, the jet set gathers for sunbathing. The café terraces on the promenade in front of the Grande Plage invite you to watch with cool drinks. In the steep streets of Biarritz, exquisite shops entice window shopping and fine patisseries tempt with sweets.
Bayonne
Typical for Bayonne are chocolate and ham, as well as the herbal liqueur Izarra. Try the local delicacies before starting your tour of the city. In the historic city center, visit the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie de Bayonne. One of the French sections of the Way of St. James runs through the cathedral. On the other bank of the Nive River is the Bourg Neuf district. Here, visit the Basque Museum and the Bonnat-Helleu Museum. During the world-famous Fêtes de Bayonne in August, it is particularly lively. Bulls are released on Place Saint-André, and Paso Doble is danced.
St Jean Pied de Port
Those who rest here or spend their vacation admire the lush gardens, flower beds, and backyards. On the Chemin de la Ronde hiking trail, you get a vivid insight along the defensive wall. The Rue d’Espagne, with its narrow alleys, testifies to traditional craftsmanship. A visit to a medieval fortification is also worthwhile. The Jacob's Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site, leads you into the interior of the complex. At the citadel, you have a breathtaking view over the Irouléguy wine region, villages, and valleys. Stroll over the cobblestones of the historic town and admire the old houses with their decorations. A permanent exhibition addresses the Way of St. James in the Middle Ages.
St Jean de Luz
The rocking of the colorful boats, street painters, and wide sandy beaches create an incomparable holiday atmosphere. On the French Basque coast near the Spanish border, you can enjoy freshly caught fish, leisurely explore the coast with a stand-up paddle, and do yoga on the beach. You should also definitely try a Maison Adam, a typical Basque pastry. A stunning seaside promenade awaits visitors. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is characterized by fascinating sand dunes, wild romantic cliffs, and three protective dikes that shield the town in all weather. Enjoy a dreamy walk along the cliff’s edge or a picnic at the Pointe de Sainte-Barbe.
Espelette
When you stroll through Espelette, you will immediately notice the whitewashed houses with red-painted beams. But something else stands out against the white background: the famous chilies drying here. Known as Piment d’Espelette, this spice has gained worldwide recognition. It is also an important part of Basque traditions in France. In the various shops and some craft workshops, you can learn more about the Basques and their way of life. The surroundings of Espelette are also ideal for adventures in nature. Rafting and kayaking are particularly popular. You can also hike through the picturesque forests and up to the mountain ridges.
Anglet
You spend summery hours on the long sandy beach of Anglet or take long beach walks in the cooler season. A popular destination is the Phare de Biarritz lighthouse perched on a cliff. The coast offers a very special natural spectacle with the Grotte de la Chambre d'Amour. The good winds of the Atlantic make the total of 11 beaches of the resort popular surf spots. Even for inexperienced water sports enthusiasts, this is a perfect place to try their first wave rides. Last but not least, Anglet captivates with pure romance – the sunset over the Atlantic west coast is impressive!
Bidart
Sit in a cozy café around the village square and let yourself be enchanted by the cozy atmosphere. A picturesque coastal path leads you over stairs, breathtaking cliffs, and dreamy beach sections to Guéthary. This section is part of the famous Camino de Santiago, on which pilgrims walk to San Sebastian. A hiking loop takes you to Lac de Mouriscot, a lake near Ilbarritz, and to the Milady wave beach. Hiking and swimming somehow go hand in hand in Bidart. At Pavillon Royal beach, which lies between Bidart and Biarritz, even beginners can surf at low tide.
Ainhoa
The small village of Ainhoa in the south of France is characterized by a village charm and Basque culture. It nestles against the picturesque mountains of the Pyrenees and offers you a tour through regional cuisine. Cooking here often involves the famous Espelette chili. Thus fortified, you embark on a hiking tour. From Ainhoa, you set off on one of the many hiking trails through the Pyrenees. Look forward to spectacular rock walls and roaring rivers. The latter can be used for activities such as white-water rafting and kayaking. In winter, some slopes nearby also open for skiers.
Basque Country - 4 most beautiful natural sights
The Rhune
La Rhune is a breathtaking natural wonder in the heart of the Basque Country in France. With a height of 905 meters, this majestic mountain offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. The natural beauty of La Rhune is unmatched, with lush green meadows stretching to the horizon and a variety of wildlife living in the forests. A climb to the summit is an unforgettable experience that rewards you with a stunning view of the Basque Country, the Pyrenees, and the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply want to enjoy the beauty of nature, La Rhune is an absolute must for any visitor to the Basque Country.
Irati Forest
The Irati Forest, in the heart of the Basque Country in France, is a true natural paradise. With its lush flora and fauna, it is one of the largest and best-preserved beech and fir forests in Europe. The green meadows, crystal-clear rivers, and picturesque paths invite you to hike, cycle, and relax. The silence of the forest, interrupted only by the melodic song of birds, offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Irati Forest is not only a place of beauty but also a place of inspiration and tranquility. Visit the Irati Forest and let yourself be enchanted by its untouched beauty.
Château d'Abbadia Nature Reserve
The Château d'Abbadia nature reserve, a hidden gem in the heart of the Basque Country in France, is a place of breathtaking natural beauty. With its diverse flora and fauna, picturesque hiking trails, and impressive views of the Atlantic, it is a paradise for nature lovers. The castle itself, an architectural masterpiece of the 19th century, blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Here you can enjoy the tranquility of nature while discovering the rich history and culture of the region. Let yourself be enchanted by the untouched beauty of the Château d'Abbadia nature reserve and experience an unforgettable adventure.
Kakuetta Gorge
Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Kakuetta Gorge in the Basque region of France. This natural oasis is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. The gorge offers breathtaking scenery with lush vegetation, rushing waterfalls, and mysterious caves. The well-developed hiking trail takes you through the heart of the gorge, past spectacular rock formations and deep, clear water pools. The Kakuetta Gorge is not only a place of peace and relaxation but also a place that awakens your senses and invites you to discover the wonders of nature. Let yourself be enchanted by the untouched beauty of this place and experience an unforgettable adventure.
Basque Country - Climate
If you are planning a summer holiday in the Basque Country of France, the months from the end of May to September are recommended. During this time, the temperatures are pleasantly warm and the water invites you to swim or surf with more than 20°C. For hiking in the mountains, the best travel time is usually a bit broader. As early as spring, you can walk over the blooming alpine meadows of the Pyrenees and take a kayak into the wild rivers. The season extends well into autumn. From August to October, the chili harvest is a highlight.
The following graph shows the average weather conditions for the country. Historical weather conditions may vary by region.