Pays Basque Hiking
On this journey into the Pays Basque, explore France and Spain to experience a culture that is ironically neither French nor Spanish. Amid the peaks, high plains and valleys of the Pyrénées, the modern Basque people - hearty and independent like their ancestors - sustain centuries-old traditions. Accompanied by local guides, hike trails between villages in the foothills, mingle in markets, play the traditional handball game of pelote, and delight in pepper-infused cuisine, robust wines and warm hospitality.
Days 1-2 St-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Rendezvous in Biarritz 
In St-Jean-Pied-de-Port, walk the narrow cobblestone lanes of this historic market city Savor Basque culinary specialties prepared by Michelin-starred chef and noted hotelier Firmin Arrambide The countryside entices with its picturesque farmland, traditional Basque villages, rolling vineyards and pastures dotted with sheep Watch and learn as locals play a round of pelote.
Days 3-4 Ainhoa
Follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims on a guided hike into Spain A trek up the pass of Roncesvalles, a region immortalized by the legend of Roland, offers vistas of beech forests and patchwork hills Explore Espelette's bustling market In the Atchuleguy foothills, look for pottoks, indigenous wild ponies Hike into beautiful Zugarramurdi, a tiny village targeted during the Inquisition as being a haven for witches.
Days 5-6 St-Jean-de-Luz
Follow the Nivelle River to the Spanish border and Sare, the Basque country's cultural gem Our local guide shares the country's folklore and history as we make our way to the Col de Trois Fontaines - Pass of Three Fountains Explore the charming seaside town of St-Jean-de-Luz, featuring a picturesque square lined with cafés, boutiques and seafood restaurants Visit the town's sheltered port, where beret-capped fishermen tend to their colorful boats.
Basque Delights: Casual Inns
Hotel Les Pyrenees (2 nights): An intimate country inn with a sprawling garden and Michelin-starred restaurant.
Hotel Ithurria (2 nights): This grand 17th-century Basque home on the town's walled square is a historical monument with its own pelote court and pool.
Grand Hotel (1 night): A belle-époque retreat with beach access, a swimming pool, spa and alfresco dining.
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Levels 1 to 2 2 Route Options Available
- 4.1, 5.7 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 1 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 4.3, 8.6, 12.5 miles
- 1000 - 1500 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 2 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- 6.4, 8.4 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 3 to 4 2 Route Options Available
- 7.2, 10.9 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 1 to 2 2 Route Options Available
- 2, 5.5 miles
- 0 - 1500 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- 2 miles
Trips For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insider Trips | Explore at a leisurely pace—on village walks, market strolls, art history excursions, hands-on cooking classes and more. |
||
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 mile | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
2010 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS
- 5/30-6/4Price: $3298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $520 for sgl. occ.)
- 9/5-10Price: $3298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $520 for sgl. occ.)
- 10/3-8Price: $3298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $520 for sgl. occ.)
Guest Trip Reviews
I had the best time meeting the group, laughing, eating excellent food, singing, hiking and sometimes sleeping. The accommodations were great, the trip planning was seamless and the leaders were absolutely fantastic and accommodating at every turn. I haven't laughed this much for a good while. I am recommending it to everyone who will listen. Bravo! Thanks for such an amazing cultural, social and physical experience!- Evergreen, CO
This trip was outstanding in every respect! It was a great introduction to a fascinating area and culture. All of the credit goes to our leaders who gave us their time, effort, and energy without stint. (Did they ever sleep?)- Fruita, CO
I loved every minute! Probably my favorite vacation EVER. The combination of physical exercise, great food, and exposure to local culture and information and culture made a perfect getaway.- Atlanta, GA