Authentic Basque Country
From Bayonne to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Basque culture between ocean and mountain.
Four days to discover the authentic Basque Country, between ocean and mountains. The route links Bayonne with its arcades, seaside Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and its harbour, then climbs to Espelette with its peppers hung on the façades. It's a journey of strong identity: red-and-white houses, a pelota wall on every square, generous cuisine and Atlantic waves. The coast is worth visiting year-round, but spring and autumn avoid Biarritz's summer crowds. Rent a car to explore the more secret hinterland: the Rhune villages, Sare, Ainhoa. Taste the gâteau basque and axoa, and pack a windbreaker — the ocean sets its own changeable climate.
Practical info
- Stops
- 6
- Duration
- 4 days
- Transport
- 🚗 Car
- Distance
- ≈ 70 km
- Best time
- May to September
Itinerary
- 1
Bayonne
Capitale du chocolat français, cathédrale et fêtes légendaires.
- 2
Biarritz
Élégance balnéaire, surf et Rocher de la Vierge.
- 3
Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Port de pêche, maison de l'Infante et gâteau basque.
- 4
Espelette
Village rouge de piments séchant aux façades, AOC unique en France.
- 5
Ainhoa
Village labellisé Plus Beau Village de France, maisons labourdines.
- 6
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Porte de Compostelle, citadelle et pays intérieur basque.
