French Basque Country
Combining French and Spanish influences to create an identity of its own, French Basque Country is full of wide golden beaches, chic seaside towns and lush valleys, sprinkled with the region’s characteristic red and white half-timbered villages. From the Belle Epoque glamour of Biarritz to the region’s capital Bayonne, this is the ideal place to explore fishing ports and sleepy hilltop villages.
French Basque Country is passionate about pelota, hot chilli peppers, tapas and fresh seafood. Bordered by the glittering Bay of Biscay and the foothills of the Pyrenees, the region celebrates its history at the Basque Festival in July, a five-day extravaganza held in Bayonne since 1932. Enjoy the sweeping oceanfront and old-world glamour of Biarrritz; explore the half-timbered buildings and riverside restaurants of Bayonne and visit the typical Basque seaside town of St-Jean de Luz. Or for wonderful views ride the tourist train to the top of La Rhune and walk the Sentier du Littoral, coastal hiking trails.
