The Basque Country is full of delights: lush vistas, trout filled streams and picturesque villages unchanged over the centuries. The Basque Country lies between France and Spain, although its food, architecture, traditions and language are uniquely Basque. We explore the foothills of the Pyrenees; a range of verdant, green mountains that form a natural barrier between Spain and France. The area is ideal for exploring on foot along the many inviting paths that link traditional villages. We follow some of Europe’s most scenic long distance footpaths as we wander besides mountain streams, through terraced vineyards and lush pastures, pathways that were followed by pilgrims over 1000 years ago.
Days 1 & 2 Hondarribia: Explore this picturesque Medieval town, on the border of France and Spain, walk along the Camino de Santiago, one of Europe’s most famous long distance paths; take a cliff-top walk with views of the Bay of Biscay, all the way to San Sebastian, enjoy the lively bar scene, sampling pintxos along the way.
Days 3 & 4 Ainhoa: Hike along the Gr10 trail following the border between France and Spain. Stay in Urdax , a UNESCO World Heritage site; walk to Ainhoa, an attractive village of typical Basque houses. Visit Sare one of France’s most beautiful villages and try the regional speciality ‘Gateau Basque’ a delicious cake filled with black cherry jam; walk to Zugarramurdi famous for its colony of witches and atmospheric caves.
Days 5, 6 & 7 St Etienne de Baigorry: Stay at a former smugglers' inn located right on the River Nive; take a hike into the wild Val Aldudes and see vultures soaring among the peaks; hike to St Jean Pied de Port, a meeting point for pilgrims from all over Europe; enjoy a tutored tasting of the wines of Irouleguy.
Basque Country: tour details
| Duration | 7 nights/8 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate 8 – 15 km/day in rolling countryside, through woods farmland and vineyards. More difficult hiking options available on alpine trails. Most trails are along well-surfaced country roads. |
| Start/Finish | Hondarribia. |
| Inclusions | Seven nights accommodation in comfortable hotels; all breakfasts and meals as listed in the itinerary; all activities listed in the itinerary; all transfers, tips and gratuities; the services of a professional tour guide. |
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