The French-Basque Countryside daytrip

Imagine this: Cute wooden houses in every color you can dream of (white, red, and green are the stars), a church hanging out next to a charming cemetery, and a frontón (it’s like a Basque ball game court) doing its thing on the side. And guess what? It’s not just about looking; you’re about to try your hand at “pelota” (Basque handball) with our expert guide leading the fun.

Excited for a day packed with Basque vibes, folklore, and all-around good times? Get those wanderlust vibes going – it’s gonna be epic!

First things first, buckle up for an absolutely breathtaking drive through the hills of Iparralde. Picture this: weaving through charming farmer villages, passing sheep farms, and cruising amid lush green mountains where the Pyrenees kick off. Get ready for a scenic joyride like no other!

Espelette:

Espelette, or Ezpeleta in Basque, is a charming village nestled in the heart of the Labourd province, famed for its iconic dried red peppers – the renowned Piment d’Espelette. Take a leisurely stroll through its streets and soak in the distinctive scenery adorned with houses showcasing dried peppers hanging from facades and balconies.

Here’s a treat for your taste buds – an opportunity to sample and purchase products crafted with this flavorful pepper, like the delectable spicy chocolate. Yumiii!

Ainhoa:

Ainhoa, steeped in history, has provided refuge for pilgrims journeying to Santiago de Compostela over the centuries. In the medieval age, the path of St. James held great significance. The village features a main street flanked by stunning Basque-style houses, mostly reconstructed in the 16th and 17th centuries after the devastation of the Thirty Year’s War. Despite their age, these houses are exceptionally well-preserved, boasting exposed stone corners and shutters in vibrant red and green. Explore the beautiful Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, the cemetery, and the pelota court.

Sare:

Beyond its splendid architecture, Sare offers photo-worthy moments with landmarks like the San Martin church and another prominent pelota court. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the chance to grab the famous “gateau basque” at the best spot we know.