Basque Country Multi-Adventure Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Premiere Hotels
Basque Country Multi-Adventure Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Premiere Hotels
2026: Sep
Bilbao to San Sebastián & Biarritz
Journey from Spanish ports to French pastures through seaside towns and the verdant Pyrenees. Ever basked on a Basque beach? Nibbled on pintxos? Learned to surf with the pros? On this adventure, never say never.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in rich and colorful Basque culture, with its own language, customs and cuisine
- Discover the picturesque seaside town of St-Jean-de-Luz, where a scenic waterfront is the perfect backdrop to a memorable meal
- Journey back in time on a handpicked section of the renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, a World Heritage Site
- Hike, bike and kayak along the rugged Basque coastline and explore the stunning Jaizkibel coastal mountain range
- Catch some waves with the pros in a fun-filled beginner’s lesson at Pukas Surf Skola, one of the oldest surfing schools in Spain
Start Bilbao
End Biarritz
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Start your trip in the vast Basque Coast Geopark • Towering above the sea, walk amid spectacular flysch cliffs that are more than 60 million years old • Stroll along the beach to a mellow fishing village • Walk a coastal portion of the Camino de Santiago, an ancient pilgrim’s route • You’re in one of Europe’s top surfing spots—care to give it a try? • Sample local pintxos in San Sebastián, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene and high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants • Savor views of the sea from our hotel’s lovely terrace or pamper yourself at the spa.
Nights 1-2
Set in the city center, surrounded by gardens and overlooking the Urumea River, this elegant century-old hotel is just a short walk from sandy beaches.
Day 3
Enjoy a scenic drive across the border to the seaside town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz • Experience the French side of Basque Country as you bike through sheep-dotted hills and bucolic farmland • Kayak through the sparkling waters of the Saint-Jean-de-Luz bay • Wander through an enchanting Old Town filled with narrow streets, half-timbered houses and lively markets • Dine on freshly caught seafood along an attractive waterfront.
Night 3
Built in 1901, this hotel has retained the charm of the belle epoque while seamlessly incorporating modern luxury. (spa)
Days 4-6
Hike verdant summits near the traditional village of Ascain and relish 360-degree views of the spectacular coast and Larrun Mountains • Bike along the Bay of Biscay and through charming ancient villages • Visit Bayonne, known for its splendid hams and chocolates • On a guided tour, discover the lavish coastal city of Biarritz, dubbed the “queen of beaches and the beach of kings” ever since Emperor Napoleon III made it a favorite of the European aristocracy.
Nights 4-5
Rich in history and charm, this 19th-century oceanfront hotel has a grand design, spectacular views and an exceptional restaurant. (pool, spa)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
On many nights, the gourmet restaurants where we dine offer specially prepared, limited or fixed menus featuring a delicious selection of authentic regional cuisine.
While we always aim to get off the beaten path, this region is a popular coastal vacation spot for European tourists. You’ll be among locals and fellow travelers when we visit towns, and there can be moderate car traffic on some of the country roads where we bike (cars in this area are very respectful of bikers).
Amid Basque Country and the Pyrenees foothills, you can look forward to some great climbs and steep descents on our hike and bike rides. If you want a boost, e-bikes are available and we can flatten some of the more challenging portions of the routes with strategic shuttles, but you should be comfortable handling hilly terrain or hopping in the van for a lift.
Hotels
World-Class Hotels
Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
Premiere Hotel
Set in the city center, surrounded by gardens and overlooking the Urumea River, this elegant century-old hotel is just a short walk from sandy beaches.
Night 3
Premiere Hotel
Built in 1901, this hotel has retained the charm of the belle epoque while seamlessly incorporating modern luxury. (spa)
Nights 4-5
Premiere Hotel
Rich in history and charm, this 19th-century oceanfront hotel has a grand design, spectacular views and an exceptional restaurant. (pool, spa)
Gallery
Share Your Adventure!
Tag @backroadstravel or use #MyBackroadsTrip to submit your photos.
Bikes
Choose Your Perfect Bike
Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
Included in your trip price
- Ideal for avid cyclists
- Redesigned for 2024
- Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
- Responsive, efficient and comfortable
- Drop handlebars only
Included in your trip price
- One of the lightest e-bikes available
- Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
- Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting
- Upright handlebars only
- Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours; learn more
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
Please Select a Group Size
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.
