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Basque Country
Destinations in the Basque Country
Regions
Attractions in the Basque Country
Discover the region
Bilbao and Co.: Prominent cities in the País Vasco
Bilbao is probably the most famous and largest city in the Basque Country. People come here from all over the world to visit the Guggenheim Museum and the modern architecture of the metropolis. A visit to San Sebastián is worthwhile for anyone interested in culture. International film and jazz festivals are held annually in one of Europe's most beautiful cities on the picturesque bay of La Concha.
The Basque capital of Vitoria-Gasteiz was named European Capital of the Environment 2012 for good reason. There are few places where you can feel closer to nature and still be in the middle of the city. The countless green spaces in the city center and the surrounding area with its rugged mountain ranges, idyllic rivers and lakes and well-maintained hiking and cycling trails are absolutely unique.
Outdoor activities in the Basque Country
Surfing in the Basque Country
Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the climate in the Basque Country is quite mild, especially on the coast. Surfers get their money's worth here all year round. Summer, with its warm temperatures and relatively low waves, is ideal for those who want to learn to surf. In the fall, when the temperatures on land become milder but the water is still pleasantly warm, the first storms bring much higher waves to the beaches and bays in the Basque Country. The colorful season therefore offers ideal conditions for experienced surfers, but is also suitable for beginners.
Even though the external conditions are toughest in winter, surfers benefit from the empty beaches and waves. Those looking for peace and quiet on the water are most likely to find it now. Those who already have surfing experience can look forward to spring, as the waves are still slightly higher at this time of year than in summer, but not quite as difficult as in autumn or winter and the beaches are also still relatively empty. The best surf spots include Zarautz, Zurriola, Sopelana, Mundaka and Bakio.
Photo: Jérôme SALORT, Adobe Stock
Hikes and bike tours
Not only surfers will be delighted by the mild climate in the Basque Country, all outdoor sports are not only fun in the summer, but also in the fall. How about a hike through one of the many small mountains? You can also hike along the coast or discover the Urkiola Nature Park on the numerous hiking trails. It is also particularly nice to explore the colorful vineyards.
This also has a special charm when done by bike. The bike tour along the Vías Verdes, former railroad lines that were made accessible to the public after their closure, is a little more unusual.
Language, cuisine and excursion destinations
History and tradition are very important in the Basque Country. The Basque language is probably the oldest language still spoken in Europe and bears no resemblance to Spanish. The Basque culture and culinary lineage have remained just as independent, offering everything from unique regional specialties to haute cuisine.
In the south of the Basque Country, nestled between the River Ebro and the Cantabrian Mountains, lies the Rioja Alavesa region, which has always thrived on winegrowing. Tours lead from the beautiful backdrop of the vines down into cool cellars, where the production process of the fine wines has remained almost unchanged since the Middle Ages, guaranteeing consistent quality.
