7 Activités à Tester au Pays Basque Cet Été

One of the best things to know about the Basque Country is that you will never run out of fun and interesting activities to do, from surfing the waves to hiking in the mountains, this region is full of possibilities.

In this article, we explore our top 7 activities you can do this summer in the Basque Country.

Surf

One thing is certain, there is no shortage of places to surf in this region, whether you are a seasoned pro or you are trying this sport for the first time, there is always a spot that will suit you. For those looking for a more user-friendly spot, go to the Côte des Basques beach and book a surf lesson supervised by pro instructors who have countless hours of surfing on the clock.

If you’re feeling ready to tackle something a little bigger, then there is a range of stronger beach breaks on the coast, from Anglet to San Sebastian in Spain. For example, the Chambre d’Amour in Anglet, the Grand Plage in Biarritz, Uhabia in Bidart or Zurriola in San Sebastian.

You n’ It will be easy to find a board to rent because most surf spots have a shop with a wide range of surfboards, bodyboards or longboards. The good thing about the Basque Country in summer is that the sea is warm enough to surf in a wetsuit only 2mm thick, or even in a bikini, but we recommend that you wear a sleeveless vest for a little extra sun protection.

Hiking – trekking

Part of the charm of this region is the striking contrast between the landscapes. The peaks of the Pyrenees which end in the sea offering a spectacular view and an abundance of activities. The highest peak in the Basque country is called Larrun (or La Rhune in French). With an altitude of 905 meters, this massif is crossed by the Franco-Spanish border line.

With several places to start, you have the choice between different levels of difficulty with some sections stiffer and more difficult than others. This hike offers an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding cities to the Landes on the French side and San Sebastian on the Spanish side. Once at the top, there is a place to unwind with a selection of tapas and comfort drinks to prepare you for the descent.

Stand up paddle

If the waves scare you but you like to be above the water on a board, the stand up paddle is for you. Of course, you can also take waves with your SUP, but it is also a great way to visit the coast using force and balance.

Some boards are even wide and balanced enough for a child to sit in front. Rent a board in one of the surf schools or shops that line the Côte des Basques beach, with the possibility of taking it for a day or even a week if you want.

Stand Up Paddle is an excellent training for the whole body and another way to discover the spots of the region. As we said before, the sea is quite warm at this time of the year.

Scuba diving

Embark on the Port des Pêcheurs, a charming little fishing port in the heart of Biarritz with its scuba diving club. An association with years of experience and an essential knowledge of local spots. Live your first dive with 3 levels of training, sea trips with dives of 25 and 45 meters deep to discover the flora, visit wrecks and even a thrilling night dive.

Whatever your level or preference, there is a diving school that will suit you in the region. Put on your fins, mask and wetsuit and embark on this new underwater adventure.

Jet ski

Go up a notch and discover the region from a different angle from the seat of your jet ski. Rent your motorbike at the water’s edge in Hendaye, a coastal town located on the French side of the border of the Basque Country, and go on an adventure.

Sail on the coast following the towns of Saint Jean de Luz and Anglet then take the opportunity to admire the famous Hôtel du Palais and the Casino on the Grande Plage in Biarritz.

A fun activity for the whole family and guaranteed to provide you with fun and thrills while you jump on the swells of the swell while discovering this magnificent coast.

Climbing

The Basque Country is also well known for its heavy rain showers. After a particularly hot period it is not uncommon for the sky to open and discharge with a bucket of rain or a spectacular electric storm. However, don’t let that put you off because it never lasts long and you can always find something fun to do during this period, like the indoor climbing wall in Bayonne.

Bayonne marks the end of the French Basque Country, it is a beautiful little town if you have some time to wander around. The climbing wall is open all year round and is aimed at beginners, children and experts. This indoor climbing center reaches up to 4.5 meters in height with highly padded mats that

Rafting and Kayaking

It’s time to speed up your heart rate with an adrenaline-filled freshwater rafting session. The Basque country is home to the Nive River, which offers an excellent opportunity to sail in an inflatable raft during the tumultuous snowmelt in spring.

You can choose from a variety of routes that all take different paths and are suitable for different levels, ranging from a day of family fun to an extreme river descent.

If you already lack salt water, you can hire a sea kayak, which can accommodate one or two people, and take on the ocean with your paddle for a good dose of adventure. Explore the surroundings with an expert guide who will take you on an unforgettable tour of this beautiful region.

The Basque Country is a great place to visit if you like exciting activities and spending time in nature with all it has to offer. If you are just passing by or if you are lucky enough to stay there for a week, you are guaranteed to find fun and exciting activities to do.