The Basque Country draws its inspiration from its heritage and its harmonious contrasts, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees. An ideal region to fill up on the sun and tapas, the gastronomy is tasty and the beaches are sensational, ideal for surfing.
Start your roadtrip in Bayonne, capital of the French Basque Country, this city represents all the intercultural charm of the region. Let yourself be tempted by a trip in a Hawaiian canoe on the Adour or the Nive, visit the Gothic Cathedral of Sainte Marie de Bayonne or treat yourself to a gourmet guided tour. Don’t forget a touch of red and white during the town’s festivities! Then get off at Anglet. Here you will find the beautiful Cavaliers beach as well as the Izadia ecological park. Remember to take a short meal break at the Halles des 5 Cantons.
Continuing your journey, you will arrive in Biarritz and can go to the famous Les Halles market. You will find fresh fish and something to prepare your future meals and aperitifs in a van. The Biarritz lighthouse, at Pointe Saint Martin, dating from the 19th century is superb! It is 40 meters high and sparkles day and night. Take the opportunity to take photos and videos on the Atalaye plateau, in front of nature which will give you a demonstration of power with its waves hitting the rocks.
Near the Spanish border, 40 minutes from San Sebastian, you will find the town of Saint Jean de Luz. Visit Fort Sacoa, take a walk in the city’s port and if you like nature, take a trip to the botanical garden and admire the superb landscapes overlooking the ocean. After all these efforts, take a short break and succumb to the temptation of taking some pastries… This is where the macaroons were born!
Take the direction of Sare. Stop off at Urrugne for a short treetop adventure course or a horseback ride around Lake Xoldokogaina. Then head to Sare where you can visit the famous caves, take a guided tour with the Rhune train or visit the gourmet Basque cake museum. Continue your trip towards Ainhoa: the Chapelle de l’Aubépine hiking circuit is famous and offers you a superb view of the mountains. You can also visit the very charming Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
Then, off to Espelette! Let yourself be surprised by the facades, alleys and balconies, where the famous Espelette peppers are hung… You will also find cheese and chocolate merchants…beware of the line…well no, for once, treat yourself !
Continue your escapade to Saint Jean Pied de Port, a typical village of the Basque Country: walks, gastronomy, discovery, let yourself go! Finish with the Col de Zurzay and its 2-hour hike on the plateau of the Iraty forest, with different routes and different levels. The verdant nature promises you magnificent viewpoints!
A look at your trip:
If you can’t wait to discover France by van, don’t wait any longer! Go choose your campervan, and make your reservation quickly for your next vacation.