Basque Country: Why choose between the mountains and the sea?

In the verdant landscapes of the Pays-basque, at the gateway to Spain, the mountains plunge into the ocean and the Celtic past rubs shoulders with the Occitan heritage. It's a land of contrasts, with a character all its own, whether in its history, its landscapes, varying from the craggy reefs of the coast to the thick forests of La Soule, or the inimitable flavours of its gastronomy. One thing's for sure: the Basque Country is a land that leaves no one indifferent! With a temperate climate influenced by the Gulf Stream, the Basque Country enjoys very mild temperatures all year round. On the other hand, the weather can be rainy, which is what gives the landscapes their distinctive soft green colour, whatever the season. The most surprising thing about a stay in the Basque Country is the exceptional variety of panoramas. A visit here is like a journey.

The adventure begins on the coast, dominated by the imposing silhouette of the Pyrenees, with its rocky coves and sumptuous waves breaking on the beaches. The seaside resorts of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Biarritz, Anglet, Bidart and Hendaye, which include the astonishing Abbadia observatory castle, celebrate surfing culture and the art of taming the ocean, just like their Landes neighbours. The Basque seafront also cultivates top-of-the-range tourism, and lovers of casinos, golf courses and luxury hotels will be in heaven!

As you move away from the coast, the scenery changes. But what a scenery! In the rolling countryside, you'll find a succession of charming villages where you can admire the euskal etxe, typical Lombardy houses in the characteristic red and white of the Basque country. 5 of these hamlets, Navarrenx (a stage on the famous Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela), Sare, La Bastide-Clairence, Ainhoa and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-port and its famous citadel, have been awarded the "Most Beautiful Villages in France" label, and it's easy to see why! Their maze of flower-filled lanes, nestling with incredible little restaurants and delightful boutiques, plunge visitors into an authentic and exotic atmosphere for an unforgettable stroll.

For nature lovers and hikers, the journey continues in the province of Soule, the summit of the French Basque Country, with its deeply rooted traditions of song and dance, its mouth-watering sheep's milk cheese with black cherry jam, and its magnificent mountain landscapes. These include the famous Holzarte suspension bridge, hovering above the forest and offering one of the most breathtaking views in the region, as well as the caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya, superb prehistoric sites listed as Historic Monuments. Not forgetting the enchanting Kakuetta Gorge, a real paradise for canyoning enthusiasts. You can also take a stroll around the village of Mauléon, where the emblematic Basque espadrilles are made. What colour will your pair be?

With its exceptionally rich culinary tradition, the Basque Country is a favourite destination for gourmets of all ages. In the village of Espelette, for example, you can wander between the white houses covered in the famous chilli pepper for which the town is famous. Between the chocolate, veal axoa, Basque chicken, Basque cake filled with almond cream or black cherries and Bayonne ham, whose reputation is well established, your taste buds will travel as much as you do!

When it comes to activities to enjoy with family or friends, the choice is equally abundant! From surfing on the coast to hiking, mountain biking, climbing, rafting and all the white-water sports you can enjoy in the superb gorges offering spectacular panoramic views, there's something for everyone who loves the great outdoors. That said, if you're already feeling tired just looking at all the sporting possibilities, don't panic! With its rich cultural heritage, the Basque Country will also delight lovers of art and history, who can visit the many castles, museums and other historic sites dotted around the region. Last but not least, the festive Basque culture, with its endless joy and conviviality, will appeal to all tastes. Summer in the Basque Country is an almost uninterrupted series of festivals, balls and celebrations, including the not-to-be-missed Fêtes de Bayonne. To the sound of traditional music, amid the mouth-watering aromas of local cuisine, the atmosphere is guaranteed!