Bike trips in the Basque Country

The Basque Country: a jewel between France and Spain

The Basque Country, or Euskal Herria, is a land of contrasts and riches, stretching over 20,000 km² between France and Spain.

This fascinating territory seduces with its diversity: from wild beaches to Pyrenean peaks, from picturesque villages to lively towns, and from its unique gastronomy to its vibrant culture.

Immerse yourself in this corner of Europe, where art de vivre and nature meet.

The French Basque Country: authenticity and unspoilt nature

The north of the Basque Country, comprising the provinces of Labourd, Basse-Navarre and Soule, is a concentrate of varied atmospheres.

• Enchanting villages: ranked among France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Espelette, with its houses adorned with sun-drying red peppers, and La Bastide-Clairence, a medieval bastide with a fascinating history, offer an immersion in a rich heritage.
• Nature activities: between a stroll on the steep ledges of Guéthary, hikes in the forests of Iraty or bike rides in the green valleys of Soule, every day is an invitation to escape.
• Dynamic cities: Saint-Jean-de-Luz, famous for its Halles and colorful alleyways, and Biarritz, a surfer’s paradise, combine modernity and tradition.
• Festivities and traditions: Basque songs, pelota and pastorales embody a living culture, proudly handed down through the generations.
• Gastronomy: sample local flavors, from Espelette pepper to sheep’s milk cheese, not forgetting axoa and Kintoa ham. A meal in a traditional cider house or overlooking the mountains will leave you with lasting memories.

The Spanish Basque Country: between modernity and tradition

To the south, the provinces of Guipuscoa, Vizcaya, Alava and Navarre offer a mosaic of landscapes and experiences.

• Must-see towns: San Sebastian (Donostia) seduces with its seaside elegance. La Concha beach, pintxos in the old town and Mont Urgull make it a magical destination. Bilbao, a dynamic cultural city, is famous for its Guggenheim Museum, a contemporary architectural masterpiece. Hondarribia, with its medieval streets and top-notch gastronomy, epitomizes Basque authenticity.
• Nature discoveries: explore Zugarramurdi, its mysterious caves and witch-related history. Discover the beauty of Navarre, where green hills and historic buildings blend harmoniously.
• The festive side: here, partying is a religion. Enjoy sangria and pintxos in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

A destination for cyclists and adventurers

The Basque Country is a destination of choice for cycling enthusiasts, offering varied landscapes and itineraries to suit all levels.

The roads criss-cross scenery ranging from the craggy cliffs of the Atlantic coast to the verdant valleys of the interior. The oceanic climate, with its mild winters and often cool, wet inter-seasons, guarantees lush vegetation that transforms every ride into a veritable immersion in nature. The picturesque villages, with their colorful houses and lively squares, are charming places to catch your breath and savor the generous local gastronomy.

For the more daring, the mythical passes of the Pyrenees offer memorable challenges, including those made famous by the Tour de France and the Spanish Vuelta. Each climb is an adventure in itself, rewarded by 360° panoramic views of the mountains and ocean. Inland, the lightly traveled roads guarantee a safe and peaceful experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the main roads.

After the effort, cyclists can enjoy the beaches, local markets or a meal in a Basque cider house to savor the best of the local cuisine.

Whether you ride for pleasure or performance, the Basque Country is a land where cycling becomes a true celebration of nature, effort and the art of living.