Last Updated on the 17th of June, 2024
The magnificent stretch of the Basque coast that curves from one charming fishing village to another and brings glimpses of the glistering ocean – the kind you can rest your eyes upon for hours- made us excited about returning to France.
Located between the majestic Atlantic Ocean and the craggy foothills of the Pyrenees, the French Basque Country is a hidden gem bursting with vibrant culture, natural beauty and fascinating heritage dating back thousands of years.
The Basques have been a self-governing nation for much of its history which has lots in common with the neighbouring Basque regions of Spain.
The fiery people of the Basque Country are proud of their culture and history, whether it’s their passion for cultivating the Espelette pepper or playing pelota – a traditional sport known for its high-energy matches and fast-paced and high-energy.
The largest city in the Frech region is the surfing hotspot of Biarritz, but the nearby Bayonne – famous for – its delicious chocolates and distinctive Bayonne ham is deemed the true heart of the Basque Country.
While the biggest part is indeed found on the Iberian Peninsula, let’s not forget that the Basque Country is made up of seven provinces, three of which are in southwestern France and are filled to the brim with rich natural wonders, dramatic Atlantic coastline, cultural traditions, and pretty towns.
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Road trip details & essentials
This blog post covers a road trip from Biarritz to Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Capbreton and Hossegor and is perfect for those who love the ocean, good food, wine and small towns.
Rather than bomb through the area in a couple of days, we dedicated 10 full days to allow us to slowly cherish its charming towns and peaceful pine forests.
While you can access some cities via public transport such as Bayonne there are a lot of incredible small towns to visit during this itinerary. Having a car is the most convenient way to explore this part of France.
Renting a car and driving around the Basque region is a real joy as the roads are in great condition and are often dotted with viewpoints. You’ll find plenty of car rental companies at Biarritz Airport.
Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To Planning The Best Biarritz Holiday In France
Road Trip Basque Country – Overview
- Start: Biarritz
- Finish: Biarritz
- Duration: seven to ten days
- Total Distance: 113 kilometres
- Driving Time: 2-3 hours
- Suggested Stops: Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Bayonne, Capbreton, Hossegor
- Region covered: Nouvelle Aquitaine
- Best for: Sightseeing, landscapes, nature, surf towns, good food
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Day 1 | Start off by exploring Biarritz
Biarritz – the surfing capital of France – is the best option as a starting point for visiting the French Basque Country.
Though the town’s reputation has often been illustrated as a place for wealthy aristocrats and trademarked by the passage of Napoleon III, Biarritz lovingly endorses voyagers with varied life stories.
Guys with low-maintenance haircuts and surfboards under their arms keep the town young and fluidly blend with fast-speeding Maserati cars and shops selling Chanel and vintage Hermès.
Biarritz might be one of the most glamorous places on the French Atlantic coast, but what really makes it a spectacular destination is the scenery.
The Bay of Biscay is stunning and going for a walk along the coast is the best way to experience it all!
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Top things to do in Biarritz
Visit Biarritz Lighthouse | The lighthouse has been greeting local fishermen since 1834. For a small fee, you can climb to the very top of it to enjoy incredible views over the city and surrounding coastline.
Learn to Surf | Biarritz is known as a surfing paradise and if you wish to feel the power of the ocean under your feet while having heaps of fun, sign up for a surfing lesson at one of the surf schools. Learning to surf is a time-consuming process, but once you know the basic technique, you can start practising.
Explore its markets | Stop at L’Ecaillerie and join the queue for a glass of wine and their famous oysters or other shellfish coming straight from the Bay of Bisque. Or, pop into another part of the Las Halles market for fresh bread and cheeses.
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Day 2 – 3 | Biarritz to Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Distance – 17.8km Time without stops – 26 minutes
Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a lovely fishing village located at the mouth of the Niavelle River, just 18km from Biarritz and at first glance feels like a world away.
It’s where the houses have a distinct architectural style, where the steep coastal cliffs give way to the craggy foothills of the Pyrenees and where a deep-routed pride in being French-Basque is evident in the friendly conversations you’re bound to have with the locals.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers pretty beaches, heaps of history and a beautiful old quarter. The village is located only 10km from the Spanish border, so it makes for a great day trip if you are on holiday in San Sebastian.
While you can find many similarities when compared to Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a much more relaxed and family-oriented place to celebrate special moments, big or small.
If you’re a beach person, you can easily spend a full day in St. Jean-de-Luz enjoying the beach and the promenade.
*Did you know-In 1660, the town hosted King Louis XIV and Infanta Maria Teresa of Spain’s wedding due to the ideal location right on the border of France and Spain.
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Top things to do in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Old Town | Walk around the old town and admire beautiful half-timbered houses built by wealthy merchants and shipowners. Feast your eyes on romantic windows, and gauzy blinds and try to imagine what life was like here back in the 17th century when Saint Jean de Luz was the centre for Basque corsairs.
Beaches | One of the town’s main attractions is its beautiful beaches. They are clean, wide and perfect for families with young children. Go for a walk along the Promenade and take in the views of the crescent-shaped bay and pretty houses.
Rue Gambetta | The main pedestrian street in town is filled with shops selling local produce, sweets and chocolates.
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Day 3 – 4 | Saint-Jean-de-Luz to Bayonne
Distance -26, 7km Time without stops – 30 minutes
If you’re exploring the Basque country, you can’t miss Bayonne – the capital of the French side of this incredible region.
Situated on the banks of the Adour River just a few kilometres from Biarritz and surrounded by the Pyrenees mountain range, Bayonne is a wonderful cluster of walkable streets, timber-framed house fronts, gourmet restaurants and busy bars.
It’s where you can feast on chocolate and aged cured ham – jambon de Bayonne – two delicious regional specialities.
If this is your first time in Bayonne, make sure you stop at the Tourist Information Bureau to pick up a few maps and tips.
Read More: A Short Guide To The Best Things To See And Di In Beautiful Bayonne, France
Top things to do in Bayonne
Sainte Marie Cathedral | Given that the cathedral is a UNESCO site, it should not come as a surprise that this was the most beautiful place we had a chance to visit in Bayonne. The imposing spires reaching high up in the cloudy spring sky as we approached one of the narrow streets left us feeling intense excitement.
Château-Vieux | Not too far from the cathedral is Château-Vieux (“Old Castle”). Although this place isn’t open to the public, you can still view it from outside just to see what a former residence for the governors of the city looks like.
Les Halles | Discover local produce that Bayonne has to offer by visiting the Less Halles market. Here, under one roof you’ll find fish, meat and tasty gâteau Basque (“Basque cake”). Make sure you visit early on a day because the markets close around 1.30 pm.
Jardin Botanique | Located next to a tourism office is Bayonne’s botanical gardens – relatively small yet beautifully laid out and perfect if you need a few minutes of rest. Admission to the Jardin Botanique is free of charge, and here you’ll find a lovely Japanese garden as well as a children’s playground.
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Day 4 -5 | Bayonne to Capbreton
Distance – 23.2 km Time without stops – 21 minutes
Located at the point where the river Adour ends its passage to the sea, Camperton is a small albeit lovely resort, best suited to visitors who wish to spend a lot of time on the beach.
From its seaside allure, semi-submerged Second World War bunkers and traditional fish markets, there are also the barrelling waves of La Piste and a very photogenic wooden pier built by Napoleon III’s orders.
When it comes to sightseeing, in Capbreton you won’t find big tourist attractions. Instead, it’s a place where to relax and appreciate those little things in life.
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Top things to do in Capbreton
Go surfing | For experienced surfers – to make the most of your surf session, get advice from the locals. For learners & beginners- rent your board from a qualified surf school and learn to catch your first waves under supervision.
Sign up for yoga | Reward yourself with a relaxing yoga session to improve your flexibility and balance and increase your muscle strength. Yoga is a great activity for your whole body and it’s one of the ways to improve your health.
Go cycling | Stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful landscape while biking through one of many cycling paths around Capbreton. While cycling is yet another great way to keep fit, one of its benefits also includes improved mental well-being. So, rent a bike, spend some quality time outdoors and see the world from a different perspective.
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Day 5 – 6 | Capberton to Hossegor
Distance – 4.7 km. Time without stops – 10 minutes
Hossegor, a beautiful beach resort only 30 km from Biarritz is a world-renewed surfing mecca and the town’s main attraction for locals and visitors alike is surfing.
Divided into three areas – La Centrale and the beachfront, Hossegor town and the lake and Soorts-Hossegor and a commercial zone about 4 km inland – Hossegor can easily become your favourite town.
Think – French bakeries with amazing pastries, plenty of surf shops, fantastic bike paths and surf events.
Hossegor’s well-earned reputation among the world’s best surfers brings them together on Quicksilver Pro France where spectators can rub shoulders with the world’s surfing elite.
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Top things to do in Hossegor
Surf | Hossegor in France isn’t known as a surfing mecca for nothing. Wherever you go on the coast which is known for being the longest uninterrupted stretch of sandy beach in Europe, you’ll find fantastic surf spots suited for beginners and more experienced surfers. For beginners – Les Estagnots and Les Bourdaines offer easy access and plenty of equipment rentals, for advanced – check out La Nord or La Gravière.
Shop | Stroll through the town centre along the Avenue Paul Lahary and Avenue du Touring Club, and you’ll find Billabong, Quicksilver and other famous surf brand outlets selling the latest fashion trends and surfboards. Check out Collective Soul, located on 93 Avenue des Tisserands in Soorts-Hossegor for decorations, vintage and upcycling.
Bike | For non-surfers biking is a fantastic way to explore the area. In Hossegor, you can rent a Fat Bike or even an electric bike for very fair prices and discover the beauty of the Landes region.
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Day 7 | Head Back To Biarritz
Distance – 40,4 km Time without stops – 38 min
On your last day, have a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before heading back to Biarritz or Biarritz Airport.
As our flight was late in the evening, we stopped by Biarritz to enjoy a relaxing final afternoon. We went for a walk, had a lunch and visited Biarritz Aquarium.
Alternatives to This Itinerary Around the Fench Basque Coast
You can also start your road trip from Spain. If you fly into San Sebastian, its airport Donostiako Aireportua is only 8 km from the French border.
However, if you arrive and rent a car in Spain, you have to make sure that your rental company allows you to cross the border into France and vice versa.
If you have more than a week to spare, you could steer inland towards the Pyrenees and visit some of the most beautiful mountain villages.
- There’s a Sare, located just 30 minutes from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, from where you can catch a train to the top of Rhune and explore the prehistoric Caves of Sare.
- Espelette is best known for its strings of red peppers drying on the façades of its buildings and the Espelette Pepper Visitor Centre, which explains the origins of this tradition.
- Then there’s the wonderful Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port village where streets are lined with pink sandstone houses and where pilgrims check in the town’s hostels on their way to Santiago de Compostelle.
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Our Advice For a Successful Road Trip
Allow at least a week to see all the main points of interest on this 113 km route.
This itinerary is obviously very flexible. You can extend your stay in each place for as long or as little as you want.
If you have more than a week, why not add Spain and visit places like San Sebastian, Pamplona and Bilbao.
If you prefer staying in one place, you can see all the villages on day trips as they are clustered close together.
Summer is ideal to go enjoying the beaches and hiking trails, but the weather remains comfortable come early autumn. Make sure to catch the Espelette chilli festival the last weekend of October.
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Now, over to you!
Have you been to the French Basque Country? Let us know in the comments!
Let us know if you are plotting a visit to the French Basque Country and have travel-related questions!
OUR CROSSINGS 
I didn’t know that the Basque region included some of France. It looks beautiful and exactly the kind of road trip we like to do, taking our time and seeing everything.
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Yes, the Basque Country straddles France and Spain and is home to incredible scenery. If you cross the Bidasoa River and head into southwestern France, you’ll find yourself in the French Basque Country. Although there are differences between the French and Spanish Basque regions, they do share numerous historical and anthropological characteristics, such as the use of the Basque language. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a lovely trip down Memory Lane for you, Aiva, and beautifully done, as always. I love the gentleness to this area of France, though I imagine it’s very different when the winter waves come pounding in. Biarritz and Bayonne both look beautiful. Maybe next year we can spend some time there. Always too many lovely places to see.
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It’s a wonderful part of France to explore, Jo. Once we hit the road, we were able to unravel a tapestry of captivating charm that adorns the region. While I loved exploring the coast and little fishing villages, I was equally in awe of its lesser known rural side which is just as fascinating because in its verdant countryside, we were able find countless hamlets, towns and villages nestled in the hollow of wild and picturesque valleys. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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🤗🩵
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Wow Aiva! What a phenomenal article! The pays basque is a beautiful place, here and in France, and you have brought out its charms precisely and clearly. Loved the pics!
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Thank you kindly, Francisco. Pays Basque is rich in heritage, regional architecture and beautiful landscapes. I loved how among the countless treasures hidden in the Basque Country, some villages offered a real step back in time. We fully appreciated their authenticity and their incomparable charms! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Always a pleasure Aiva. You too, have a great Friday and weekend coming!
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Thanks so much and right back at you 😘
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You’re very welcome!
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What a wonderful post! I found everything really interesting: the descriptions are fabulous and the images are great.
PS: Even though it’s not that far from Italy, I don’t know the French Basque region
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Thanks so much, Luisa. At the time we lived in Dublin suburs, so a 10-day road trip along the Bay of Biskay were we had a chance to surf and immerse ourselves in a local way of living, was a dream! Going trough the photo archives brought a wave of incredible memories
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Thank you so much for your very kind reply ❣️❣️❣️
Scrolling through the photo archives from the past always brings us waves of incredible memories
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That’s so true 🥰🥰
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🙏🤗🙏
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I’ve spent many a vacation in both French and Spanish Basque Country as posts on my blog will testify. It’s hard for me to even pick a favourite place since I love them all.
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I haven’t been to the Spanish Basque Country yet, but I have a feeling that I would love it as much as the French side because there’s the green countryside, the beautiful coast, the food and the Basque people. As the French poet and novelist Victor Hugo used to say “Everyone who has visited the Basque Country longs to return; it is a blessed land”. After multiple trips to Biarritz and surrounding towns, I understand why he used to say that. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Pleasure Aiva and I’m on my way home (Nice) from a trip to San Sebastián, Bilbao, Briones, Zaragoza and L’Escala all of which will feature on my blog in due course.
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That’s fantastic, Sheree. I hope you had a great time exploring all the places. I very much look forward to reading all about your trip. xx
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Thanks
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What a lovely region to visit, I’ve got to add it to my list! Your sunset pictures are all so stunning. I’d enjoy trying to learn how to surf, I’ve always wanted to do that. Looks like the perfect mix of beautiful nature and charming cities too.
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It is a wonderful part of France to visit, Lyssy, and I was so happy to see so many colourful sunsets in a single trip. There are rugged mountains, perhaps known for heroic stages from the Tour de France, beautiful villages and incredible hiking areas. In addition, the area is ideal if you are looking for some peace and quiet, it is much less touristy than other regions we’ve visited. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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We did a similar trip in 2014 just before we left Paris to come back to Montreal (we spent 2 1/2 years living in Paris from 2012-2014 on a job transfer). We loved this area and your itinerary is quite interesting as are your photos. Thanks for bringing back nice memories. (Suzanne)
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Hi, Suzzane 🙂 I’m glad to hear you are familiar with this wonderful part of France. We travelled around in this region for over a week with a car and what impressed us was the peacefulness we found everywhere. While we managed to see quite a lot, there a a good few places in the French Basque Country I still long to see such as Gorges de Kakuetta and Gorges d’Holzarte, so it’s quite possible one day we may return back to it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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We have not yet been to this part of France, but after seeing your beautiful photos and detailed itinerary, we’ll have to visit soon. Lovely photos of your family as well. Thanks for sharing Aiva and I hope you have a nice day.
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Thanks so much 🙂 The Basque people take great pride in their heritage and identity, and visiting the little region they call home is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in their culture and way of life. Although we went for nature and ocean views in the Basque Country, we also enjoyed the peace and quiet and conviviality that we found in the various villages. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Ten full days to explore this region is a fine idea. You got to really experience it.
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This gorgeous gem of a region along France’s coast offers a whole wealth of charming small towns and natural beauty, and ten days was just enough to see everything we had initially planned. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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There certainly are plenty of reasons to visit the Basque region in France. It seems to have a bit of everything – surfing, historical towns and beaches on a beautiful coast. Thanks for the introduction Aiva. Maggie
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Yes, Maggie, there are many reasons to visit the ancient, free-spirited land of the Basques. There are the beaches, culinary experiences and little villages. Also – it is simply beautiful: We’ve been back to the French side many times, so it would be a good idea to pop over the border to see what the Spanish Basque country is like. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Such a beautiful area! Thank you or sharing so much with us. Great photos!!
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Thanks so much. The French Basque country is very scenic and diverse. While the French part seems French at first glance and Basque second, the region has its special spice, mingling Basque and French influences with a gorgeous coastline. and beautiful rolling countryside. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Although I visited the Basque Country on the Spanish side, I actually never made it over to the French side of things (closest would have to be brief visits to Bordeaux and Pau). A lovely place for surfers, and it looked like a wonderful vacation for you and your family! 🙂
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We loved exploring the French Side of the Basque Country as this vibrant region offers an unequalled blend of stunning landscapes, rich history and stunning coastline. I know that the French part has been overshadowed by its larger southern neighbour, nevertheless, it is well worth visiting. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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The French Basque Country looks beautiful and I’d love to follow in your footsteps sometime. A splendid road trip itinerary as we also prefer to take our time to enjoy and explore. Hope you have a lovely weekend Aiva xxx
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It is a wonderful place to explore due to its charming villages, the enduring spirit of the Basque people and many unique culinary experiences. As we lived in Dublin at the time, our main reason for visiting was the beaches as there are beaches close to cities, secluded beaches, surfing beaches, and family-friendly beaches – pretty much take your pick and you’ll find it along the coast. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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My wife and I have friends in Barcelona. This trip to Basque region could make sense as an add on for us.Roadtrip away in one way or another is our goal.
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You could take a bus, train or even rent a car to travel 237 miles (383 km) from Barcelona to Biarritz. The AVE trains are the fastest and most comfortable way to travel, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, although the cheapest and fastest route would be to book a flight. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Probably unsurprising to anyone, it’s the Spanish side of the Basque Country that I know better, thanks to the countless articles and videos about San Sebastian and Bilbao I’ve come across. It’s nice that you decided to go to the French side first and share with us some tips to help those who have never been to plan their own trip to this southwestern corner of France. I’m really curious about the food on the French side since the Spanish side has a rather lofty reputation as a great place for a gastronomical adventure.
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The French Basque Country is a great place to visit, Bama as you can easily combine hiking in the mountains and surfing in the ocean in one unforgettable trip. I find the region highly attractive due to its culture, diversity, and traditions, although I was quite fascinated by the Basque language, or Euskara, which was perhaps the most characteristic feature of the region. With several road trips around the French part, I have to plan a trip to explore the Spanish side. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Alas, our trip to the Pyrenees last summer did not include anything more easterly than the central part of the mountains. Despite several trips to France, I’ve never “gone coastal” there. It will happen one day. In fact, I hope it will happen several times, because there’s Brittany to see, as well as the central coast and the southern part you highlight here. This tour looks lovely and the very epitome of slow travel.
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Despite several trips to France, I’ve never been to the mountains which is something I have to correct sooner than later. As a family who loves to surf and be by the sea, we often find ourselves by or near the coast, although on many occasions I have felt the pull of the mountains. If you are keen on exploring the shores, Brittany and Normandy are quite fascinating regions as is the Provence coast east of Marseilles and French Riviera. Ahhh.. so many places and so little time! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I know! France will see us many more times.
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That’s for sure! xx
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What an awesome post Aiva. I have never even considered this part of France, but it looks so beautiful. You captured it well and it looks like the little ones really enjoyed it too. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port looks amazing. Thanks for taking us along and giving me another place I’d like to visit. Allan
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It’s a truly wonderful region that maintains the customs of the ancient Basque people, together with a rich cuisine using authentic local products. We had a memorable time discovering all the charm of this beautiful area of the French Basque Country, and I can easily recommend it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Gorgeous shots, especially of the sunsets! While transit in Europe is fantastic, sometimes it’s nice to have a car to explore the smaller towns. Seems like there’s a bit of something here for everyone whether you enjoy the beach (and surfing), scenery, architecture, food or just wandering around.
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Thanks so much, Linda 🙂 we very much enjoyed all the colourful sunsets along the coast! As the wonderful Basque Country is located between the sea and mountains it offers a wide range of activities. You can pretty much embark on a hiking adventure early in the morning and go surfing in the late afternoon. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a beautiful area, and everyone looks so happy! Thank you for helping us smile today!! 😊
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Thanks so much 🙂 We were happy to be by the sea and to escape rainy Ireland. From royalty resorts, whaling harbours, and surfing hot spots, the French Payes Basque has seen destructions and wars over the centuries as well as changes and growth while conveying enormous pride in its Basque origins and making for an incredible travel destination. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Great article! I don’t know the Basque coast beyond Biarritz and Bayonne, but I love its regional architecture, which is so different from the other coasts of France. It’s a place where the weather can be fine beyond the ordinary high season, which means you can go there when the crowds aren’t there.
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A few years ago, we spent 5 days in Biarritz but never ventured beyond the surf town’s borders. As a keen surfer, I knew a thing or two about Hossegor and its marvellous waves, but that’s about it. Therefore, we decided to return to this part of France to discover what lies beyond Biarritz and were pleasantly surprised to uncover a wealth of incredible attractions. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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How beautiful it all looks and sounds. Your words take me there with you Aiva and the photos are absolutely superb!
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Thank you, Glenys. I loved exploring the French Basque region as each of its cities and towns had a distinct vibe. I think it would be a good idea to visit both Basque regions in Spain and France to have a better understanding of this area. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port sure is beautiful. Great photo souvenirs of your travels.
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Thanks so much, Rebecca. The French Basque Country is much smaller in area than the Spanish region and is a little more blended with French culture yet equally worth visiting and exploring. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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This looks absolutely wonderful Aiva. It’s a part of France that I would not have thought of exploring, but it looks lovely. I like the look of Saint-Jean-de-Luz – what a sweet place.
Alison
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The windswept and often stormy Bay of Biscay was blissfully calm during our time in France, and we had a fantastic time exploring the Atlantic Ocean coastline. I’m glad you like the wonderful village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. It is a relatively small, pedestrian-friendly haven. There are ample bicycle trails and walkways, as well as plenty of picnic locations in parks or on coastal bluffs, where local families out walking will often offer smiles and warm greetings. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Slow travel, and exactly what you said – appreciate the little things… This too has been my mantra when creating an itinerary for my family, especially when our kids we little. We also try to stay in one place or move slowly. This blog is a beautiful Aiva. Those thinking of going to France should have a look at this itinerary. 🙂
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Thanks so much for your lovely comment. As a curious traveller, I often operate with FOMO: fear of missing out. When I’m traveling by myself, I like a full itinerary with lots of activities and very little downtime. I want to make the most of my experience, especially if I’m visiting a country I’ve never been to before. But here’s the thing: kids need breaks. Lots of breaks. If you plan too much and don’t leave enough space for their needs or interests, you might find that moods shift and sour. That’s why whenever we travel as a family of four, we like to take things slow. This way we get to connect with the surroundings, be more present in the moment, and appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of each destination. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Travelling with the kids when they’re still small is the best, I realised (and contrary to what many say). I love watching and rewatching my kids’ travel videos when they were still little. You’re doing it right, slow travel is the secret with kids. Speaking of breaks, oh gosh yes do give them that, and bathroom breaks too hahah. I remember when mine accidentally peed in Versailes because I didn’t realise that he hadn’t done so after drinking 2 bottles of milk and we didn’t make it to the toilet in time. 🙂
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Never been to the French Basque Country but this blog has got me thinking that maybe I should. Great guide!
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Thank you 🙂 It is a wonderful region to explore. We loved visiting all the little seaside villages, especially Saint Jean de Luz. – this wonderful village became a big discovery of the day for us, as Biarritz shades all other locations with its international name! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a wonderful itinerary, I’d love to complete one day. It’s a region I’ve never explored and I really must put that right. Thanks for the top tips Aiva x
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Thank you kindly 🙂 It’s a region I’ve had a chance to explore several years and can highly recommend as among the countless treasures hidden in the French Basque Country there’s also heritage, emblematic regional architecture and the beauty of their landscapes. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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This is such a great itinerary to seeing this beautiful area. I would love to follow in your footsteps along this path one day! 🙂
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Over the years, I’ve seen many enchanting photos from the French Basque Country before I had a chance to fully appreciate their authenticity and incomparable charms in person. And I was in for a treat! It’s a reagion unlike any other! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I had no idea this beauty existed on the Atlantic coast of France, Aiva. Hence, I’ve never had much desire to visit that part of France. This post has changed that for me. It’s so cool that you have regular access to the wonders of Europe. For me, it’s a 9-hour flight and multiple time zones away. Man, what I would see and do if I lived closer. I barely scratched the surface after spending six months there this past year. My list of places to visit is growing. Thank you for posting about your adventures!
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Same here, my list of places to visit and explore grows bigger by the day. So many places, so little time, right? The Basque Country of France is located between the Atlantic Ocean and the towering Pyrenees. It is a little out of the way from the rest of France yet what it offers to visitors (think vibrant culture and natural beauty) makes it worth visiting. Thanks for stopping by. I hope all is well 🙂 Aiva xx
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Wonderful trip and I love the fact that the distances aren’t big so one doesn’t spend the whole day in transit…
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That was our favourite part, Marie. Who wants to go on a road trip only to see everything through a car window due to overpacket itinerary and all-day drives, especially if you’re traveling with kids? By now, we’ve been to Biarritz many times – the flight time from Dublin Airport to the surf city is just about 2 hours plus Biarritz Airport from the town centre can be reached in 8 min. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Always love reading about your traveling adventures. Your photos are so pretty too, I can’t pick a favorite, but that little crab is cute. Thanks for sharing. You and your family have a beautiful summer and God bless and protect you all.
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Thanks so much for your lovely comment. I am glad you love the crab photo – we sat on the beach oblivious to the little creature lurking curiously from the bottom of the stones. I had to snap it! On another note – I still stop by your blog regularly, although I haven’t been able to leave comments on your blog posts anymore. I miss our little interactions! I hope all is well with you and your family 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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That seems like an incredible road trip! I went to the Basque Country a few years ago and saw only some of the towns you mention, but I’ve always wanted to go back and explore more of this gorgeous region. Thanks for this very inspiring post!
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We first visited Biarritz when Ericeira was just a bay and during the trip learned about how much there is to see and do around the vibrant surf town. That’s why we made a return trip and were blown away by the stunning natural beauty the Basque region has to offer. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 AIiva xx
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It is we, your avid readers, who cherish ‘ the ocean, good food, wine and small towns’. What a wonderful post you have shared, with excellent recommendations, stimulating well crafted photos, and helpful advice. I have made notes from your excellent guide. Thank you for posting this silver lode of knowledge! Cheers!
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Thank you kindly for such a wonderful commment. I am glad you found my post useful. We made lots of wonderful memories all while discovering the charm of this beautiful area of the French Basque Country, and I can highly recommend it to other travellers. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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