BIARRITZ
and the BASQUE COUNTRY
Biarritz
is the Atlantic Coast's answer to Monte Carlo: a lively seaside
resort with fine 19th century buildings overlooking a stunning
bay of pounding surf. A few miles inland and we're into the
foothills of the Pyrenees. Southward lies the Basque Coast
and the Spanish gems of San Sebastien and Bilbao with its Gufggenheim
Museum. This tour takes a look at the history, culture, topography
and gastronomy of this beautiful region.
Day
1 : Biarritz Arrive in Biarritz. Transfer and check in at your hotel.
Free time.
Welcome dinner and night in 3*hotel in Biarritz.
Day 2 : Biarritz visit / Saint Jean de Luz
Begin the day with a short walking tour of Biarritz. This renowned
seaside resort has always remained a fashion hot spot. Famous visitors
included Coco Chanel, Charles Chaplin and Frank Sinatra.
The town is sprinkled with some of the most beautiful ”Belle
Epoque” villas of France. In the afternoon, we reach Saint
Jean de Luz one of the most picturesque ports of the region.
After a short guided tour, free time for walkabout.
Night in Biarritz.
Day 3 : Most beautiful villages / La Rhune
This
morning is devoted to the most beautiful villages of the Basque
countryside.
Whether it is Sare, Espellette or Aïnhoa, you will
be enchanted with the Basque architecture, the colours and local
atmosphere that reigns in these villages.
In the afternoon we will board the famous rack-and-pinion train
of La Rhune that will take us astride the Spanish Border for a
breath-taking view over the entire Basque Country.
Special Casino Night with dinner included. Night in Biarritz.
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Day 4 : Excursion to BAYONNE
Today
excursion to Bayonne, the Basque Country capital. We begin this
morning
with a visit of the Musée Bonnat and the Musée
Basque for a fascinating insight into local customs. The rest of
the day is free to explore the capital of the Basque country independently.
The characteristic arcades and the façades of the stone
and half-timbered houses hide treasures such as magnificent stairways
with wrought iron balconies. Be sure to visit both Grand Bayonne,
on the westbank, where you will dicover the Sainte-Marie cathedral,
and Petit Bayonne, on the eastbank of the Nive tributary, which
is arguably the more authentic part of town.
Night in Biarritz.
Day 5: Biarritz / Bilbao / San Sebastian
Certainly one of the highlights of the week! Your day will begin
by the visit of the incredible Guggenheim museum located in the
city of Bilbao. Conceived by US architect Franck O. Gehry, the
museum possesses one of the most important collections of XXth
century art.
After the visit and some time in Bilbao, we will return via San
Sebastian, the Spanish equivalent to Biarritz. You will certainly
be happily surprised as you are immersed in the heart of the Old
city where “Tapas” are the main attraction.
Night in Biarritz.
Day 6: Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port / Pilgrims Way of St James of Compostella
Today you will surely succumb to the charm of Saint Jean-Pied-de
Port, located on the Nive river, on the famous 'Pilgrims Way to
Santiago di Compostella', where old city walls as well as a citadel
built by Vauban, still protect the town. Most of the houses are
built in red sandstone increasing the general beauty of the area.
Your afternoon will take you towards Spain as you follow this ancient
pathway that leads pilgrims to Compostella in Galicia.
Farewell dinner in Biarritz. Night in Biarritz.
Day 7: Depart Biarritz
Breakfast at your hotel. Transfer to Airport.
Programme for individuals (4 people minimum)
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