Bayonne and the Basque Country by Bike

Cycling the Basque Country: Bayonne and the Picturesque Hinterland

This cycling journey invites you to discover the many faces of the Basque Country. Riding along scenic roads, you will pass through charming villages where Basque traditions are ever-present. Each stage immerses you in an authentic atmosphere, filled with cultural encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

Upon arriving in Bayonne, a unique atmosphere surrounds you. Between its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and historic ramparts, the city unveils its distinctive Basque soul. Strolling along the Nive riverbanks, sipping a glass of cider with pintxos, or visiting the majestic Sainte-Marie Cathedral—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offers a first taste of the local culture. The vibrant Halles market, bursting with flavors and colors, showcases regional specialties such as Bayonne ham, artisanal chocolate, and Espelette pepper, awakening your senses to the rich Basque gastronomy.

Your cycling adventure begins gently, following the Adour River and winding through rolling landscapes where nature unfolds in all its splendor. Traditional Basque farmhouses, peaceful flocks of sheep, and orchards of black cherries in Itxassou set the rhythm of your journey. A stop in this charming village is the perfect opportunity to taste the famous Basque cake, a true local delicacy. As you navigate the winding roads, the hidden charms of the Basque Country reveal themselves. You might spot pottoks, the small wild horses native to the region, share a word with a shepherd wearing the traditional beret, or slowly climb towards breathtaking panoramic views. In Sare, officially listed among France’s most beautiful villages, Basque history and culture are reflected in its picturesque church and its pelota fronton. Nearby, the mysterious and fascinating Sare Caves invite visitors into a subterranean world steeped in legend. In the evening, savor a delicious veal axoa, a classic Basque dish, paired with a glass of Irouléguy wine.

Continuing your journey, the path takes you through Ainhoa, with its iconic red and white facades reminiscent of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. In Espelette, the air is filled with the aroma of drying peppers hanging from traditional Basque houses. A stop here allows you to uncover the secrets of this emblematic spice before pedaling onward to Bayonne. Reaching Saint-Jean-de-Luz, you are greeted by a stunning coastal panorama: its colorful harbor, traditional fishermen’s houses, and golden beaches create a charming and welcoming atmosphere. The bay, protected by its dikes, is a soothing sight, while the colorful boats bring the harbor to life. A tasting of Saint-Jean-de-Luz macaroons, a delicate local specialty handed down for generations, marks a gourmet pause before setting off again. The climb back up to Bayonne skirts the ocean, revealing breathtaking panoramas. The road winds between cliffs and coves, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Stops abound to admire the Basque coastline, with its sheer cliffs and wild beaches. This final section of the Vélodyssée takes you as far as Guéthary and Bidart. You pedal serenely and gently, lulled by the sound of the waves and the iodized air. The joys of cycling, a feeling of total freedom.

Back in Bayonne, enjoy a final Basque-style breakfast. A last cup of coffee in front of the lively quays, a last look at the ramparts… This stay leaves an indelible mark, that of an adventure combining effort and wonder, heritage and gastronomy, encounters and emotions. You’ll want to come back and explore this land where the Basque heart beats with incomparable intensity. This tour focuses on authenticity and simplicity, for a truly immersive travel experience. At every stop, you’ll sample the delights of the local gastronomy, while enjoying the warm welcome of the locals. Cycling is also about taking the time to appreciate each moment and savor the beauty of the landscape. A journey that combines effort, pleasure and escape, while exploring the hidden treasures of the Basque Country.