The Basque
Country is one of the oldest civilizations known to man. Basque
pride is displayed through a passion for history, gastronomy,
culture and sports. Undaunted by the changing world
around them and border wars that have raged for centuries,
traveling in the Basque region is a window into the genuine
culture and lifestyle of these very proud people. From
the beautiful coastal road along the Bay of Biscay, into
the most remote villages of the Pyrénées,
Basque pride instills a sense of place and tradition, best
experienced from the vantage point only a bicycle offers.
EPIC CYCLING
Cycling in the Basque Country is like skiing fresh powder – unspoiled
and new with every turn. An idyllic and picturesque
landscape that rivals Tuscany for beauty, the roads of
the Western Pyrénées rise and fall over rugged
limestone mountains, giving way to the emerald hillsides
that fill the countryside. The twisting coastal road
of the Côte Basque culminates on the Monte Jaizkibel,
the climb that separates the contenders from the pretenders
in the Clasica San Sebastian. It
offers immaculate views over the Bay of Biscay from one
of the most beautiful spots on the Spanish coast. With
this type of landscape, it is no coincidence there are
more than 70 professionals in the European peloton from
the Basque region.
AUTHENTIC CULTURE
The Basque hills are filled with typical white stucco villas,
warm and pleasing, in perfect harmony with the generosity
of the Basque Country itself. Wines from Iroleguy
and Jurancon; cheeses from Irati and Roncal; fresh-grown
cherries; rare red peppers; and prehistoric grottos. The
history of the Pays Basque defines a region rich in agriculture
and steeped in history, covered in lush green mountains
and white stucco farmhouses. From the tiny village
of St. Jean-Pied-de-Port to the beautiful Bay of Biscay,
the spirit of this intriguing culture never ceases to
amaze and impress.
EXEMPLARY SERVICE
Imperial surroundings at the hotel Tres Reyes (3 Kings)
and the castle of King Carlos V provide luxury fit for
a king and queen. The Basques are known world wide
for seemingly inventing the art of eating. Alain
Ducasse, at his exceptional and unique hotel, interprets
traditional Navarrian cuisine. Old meets new in
Hondarribia, where chef Ramon Roteta reinterprets Basque
favorites, such as merluzo and txanguro. In the
hills, traditional Basque architecture offers elegant
lodging and the regional flair and refined service of
the Isabel brothers.Register
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