One of the Basque Country's great attractions is the close proximity of sea and country. The coastline is dramatic, with its wide sweeps of sandy beaches, cliffs and fishing harbours, beautiful sunsets over the sea and the Atlantic surf breaking on rocky outcrops; yet just a few minutes` drive inland are green, rolling hills, streams and rivers and flower filled pastures. The Basque identity of this region is apparent; the place names, the local accents, the Basque colours of the red and green timbered houses of villages where pelota is played regularly and in locally woven linens. Pimentos hanging from houses are a common sight as are locals in traditional costume for festivals and feast days. We loved the Basque Country from the moment we first visited it.
Local highlights
Sample traditions such as pelota and pimento festivals. Local crafts such as the makhila walking stick, fine linens and Thalassotherapy. There are excellent golf courses and sandy beaches. Notice the red and green timbered houses. Click here for more travel details.
Climate. Average air temperatures by month in centigrade: Jan 10.0, Feb 9.4, Mar 12.2, Apr 19.5, May 18.0, Jun 23.7, Jul 27.2, Aug 25.7, Sep 24.2, Oct 19.7, Nov 15.4, Dec 11.0. Source: Direction de la Meteorologique de France.
Travel arrangements
Self-drivetake the ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao with P&O or from Plymouth to Santander with Brittany Ferries. We can arrange for you to arrive in Spain by ferry but to return via the French western Channel ports. If driving from Calais we recommend at least two nights' en route each way. Ask us for overnight stop recommendations. By Motorail the Calais to Bordeaux service operates from June until August. By Air: Bordeaux is the closest direct international airport. Allow about 3 hours' drive to the hotels.