Basque Country Multi-Adventure Tour
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? Sampled pintxos? Learned to surf with the pros? On this adventure, never say never.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $6,099 - $6,599/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in rich and colorful Basque culture, with its own language, customs and cuisine
- Discover the picturesque seaside town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where a scenic waterfront and half-timbered houses with festive red trim are the perfect backdrop to a memorable meal
- Journey back in time on select sections of the renowned Camino de Santiago, a sacred Christian pilgrimage route and a World Heritage Site full of breathtaking landscapes
- Hike, bike and kayak along the rugged Basque coastline and explore the stunning Jaizkibel mountain range
- Catch some waves with the pros in a fun-filled beginner’s lesson at Pukas Surf Eskola, one of the oldest surfing schools in Spain
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Bilbao Airport & Travel Details
- Hike in the vast Basque Coast Geopark
- Towering above the sea, gaze at spectacular 60-million-year-old flysch cliffs
- Stroll along the beach to an atmospheric fishing village
- Walk a coastal portion of the Camino de Santiago, an ancient pilgrimage 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
Luxury 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.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- 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 St-Jean-de-Luz Bay
- Wander St-Jean-de-Luz’s narrow streets and dine along the town’s attractive waterfront.
Night 3
Luxury Hotel
Built in 1901, this hotel has retained the charm of the belle epoque while seamlessly incorporating modern luxury. (spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Explore the countless charms of Basque Country
- Hike verdant summits near Ascain and relish 360-degree views of the spectacular coast and 3,000-foot Larrun Mountain
- Ride 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 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
Luxury Hotel
Rich in history and charm, this 19th-century oceanfront hotel has a grand design, spectacular views and an exceptional restaurant. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Biarritz Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 1-3
Hiking routes wind through varied terrain—rocky coastal paths along rugged cliffs and secluded coves, forested trails with roots and occasional loose rock, and open pastures and grassy meadows crossing small streams. Terrain is hilly, particularly along the coast. Flat, paved walks through towns are also offered as easier options. Closed-toed, sturdy shoes are recommended.
All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Fully equipped Backroads titanium bike, Wahoo GPS device, helmet and accessories
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads cycling jersey, t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
