Visit the Basque Country: 8 must-see places

Ah the Basque Country… A territory with a strong character, rich in culture, traditions and exceptional heritages. To get away from it all without going too far, this is the dream destination! Between coastal paths wild, Atlantic Ocean and mountains of the Pyrenees, the coast Basque offers a diversity of landscapes and abounds in preserved natural treasures. But what to visit in the Basque Country? So that you don't miss anything stay and not miss out on the beauty of this region, here is our selection of sites for visit the Basque Country! ❤️💚

1. La Rhune: the famous peak to see on the Basque coast

Discover the mythical Basque summit: La Rhune! Located at an altitude of 905 m on the border between France and Spain, the massif dominates the Pyrenees mountain range, the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Landes coast. Admire a breathtaking 360° panorama! Take the authentic cogwheel train or hike to the top. Along the way, you will encounter manech ewes, wild pottoks (small horses from the region), vultures as well as sublime carnivorous plants: a remarkable fauna and flora! 🐴🌿

2. Villa Arnaga: an essential domain in the Basque Country

Dive into the heart of the story of the famous Edmond Rostand, author of the play “Cyrano de Bergerac”. A historical monument located south of Bayonne. He built the house of his dreams in lush greenery: a huge villa inspired by Basque farmhouses and surrounded by superb French and English gardens over more than 15 Ha. Inside, you can admire many works of art: drawings, paintings, photographs and collectibles. 🖼️

3. The most beautiful villages in France in the Basque Country to visit

Whether you are staying for 3 days or a week in the Basque Country, you cannot miss the picturesque villages of the region! Ainhoa, Sare, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and La Bastide-Clairence have been labeled "the most beautiful villages in France". Stroll through the streets to contemplate the typical Basque houses, the Navarrese architecture, the labourdin-style half-timbering, the colorful exposed stone facades and the medieval bridges. 🏠 Also discover towns of character: Espelette, Itxassou, Saint-Jean-de -Luz or even Bayonne. Take the opportunity to go shopping and bring back some souvenirs like the famous Ezpeletako biperra (Espelette pepper) or espadrilles! 🛍️ If you pass near Pau, come visit us to find some pretty fashion pieces!

4. The Basque Corniche: a protected natural area

Enjoy the view as you stroll along the Basque Corniche: a site to visit in the Basque Country! Between Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye, it offers breathtaking views of the most remarkable cliffs of the Pyrenees-Atlantiques. Take the coastal path at the foot of La Rhune to start the circuit.Don't forget your favorite travel accessory: the camera! 📷 Capture the natural and wild landscapes of the hinterland The most beautiful viewpoints of the Basque Country are here! The Corniche Basque is one of the best things to see in the region!

5. The caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya: a spectacular and prehistoric site

Do you want to do cultural tourism in the Basque Country? A veritable archaeological and geological treasure, the caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya will amaze history and caving enthusiasts! Explore these spectacular vestiges of prehistory and discover engravings, limestone concretions, stalagmites and stalactites or even clay plaques and constructions dating from the Paleolithic era: a step back in prehistoric time! A guided tour will allow you to learn more about these jewels of the Basque Country.

6. The Kakuetta gorges and the suspended footbridge of Holzarte: exceptional life-size sites

Lover of adventures, thrills and unique experiences? Treat yourself to an adrenaline-rich ride! Set sail for the territory of Soule, equip yourself with good shoes as well as a helmet and go hiking for a whole day. A long route will take you to the heart of the Basque mountain, then to incredible cliffs and waterfalls. Highlight of the walk, you will discover the majestic Kakuetta Gorge. The bravest will cross the Holzarte suspended footbridge at a height of 180 m overlooking the Olhadubi Gorge: a grandiose place!

7. Abbadia Castle: a place of interest to visit in the Basque Country

Visit a remarkable site in the Basque Country : the Abbadia castle! 🏰 This place of interest overlooks the Basque Corniche and the steep cliffs of Hendaye . This building of neo-Gothic architecture is classified as a historical monument and House of the Illustrious. It owes its name to its owner Antoine Abbadie, scholar, ethnologist, astronomer, traveler and defender of culture Basque! Stroll through its richly decorated castle in the heart of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. This sumptuous residence and its huge park will offer you a unique architectural experience and a stunning panorama of the Basque coast.

8. Aspe, Ossau and Barétous: 3 Pyrenean valleys

Near the Basque Country, discover the romantic landscapes of 3 sublime valleys: Aspe, Ossau and Barétous. Make a stop at Béarn, still in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department (64), because these protected natural areas worth the detour! You will be dazzled by this remarkable heritage between meadows, lakes, cirques and gorges. Take the opportunity to go hiking or horseback riding, trekking, mountain biking or canyoning during the summer season. These valleys are ideal for sports activities and discovering the region.

Now you know the 8 places to visit in the Basque Country! Between discovering culture, traditions, history, coastal landscapes and typical villages, the Basque Country will surprise you! 🤩