Basque Country’s 6 Best-Kept Secrets

On the dramatic coastline of the Bay of Biscay, flanked by the Pyrenees mountains, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/spain">Spain’s</a> <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/spain/basque-country">Basque country</a> has so much to offer. Throw into the mix mouthwatering gastronomy (oh, the food!), modern architecture, lively culture and the proud spirit of the Basque people, and you have the makings of a great trip. Here are some of the hidden gems of the Basque region - apart from Bilbao - that you need to know about.<h3>Hondarribia</h3>Skirting the border between Spain and <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/france">France</a>, Hondarribia is a village influenced by both the Spanish Basque and French Basque cultures. Sitting pretty on the west shore of the Bidasoa River’s mouth, Hondarribia boasts panoramic views of Hendaye, France and a regular ferry service can shuttle you between the two towns with ease.Home to Gipuzkoa province’s only fortified wall, Hondarribia boasts a beautifully preserved Old Town, replete with Basque houses, baroque buildings and cobblestoned streets. You’ll want to check out Calle San Pedro — here you’ll find a bounty of pintxos bars where you can nibble on delicious bites and sip sangria to your heart’s content.

<h3>The Best Pintxos in Basque Country</h3>Speaking of pintxos (our favourite topic of conversation), the Euskal Herria Pintxo Championships were born in Hondarribia in 2006, and have been running in the town ever since. This can only mean one thing for foodies: the pintxos in Hondarribia are an absolute must. With a beautiful half-mile (800m) stretch of beach, Hondarribia can be quite the paradise when the weather is good (which, luckily, it often is). There is also a lovely seafront promenade that continues along the water to the old port, which is worth navigating with a delicious gelato in hand.<h3>Getaria</h3>The seemingly quaint fishing village of Getaria has quite a lot to say for itself. Not only was it the birthplace of the first man to travel around the world, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Sebasti%C3%A1n_Elcano">Juan Sebastián Elcabo</a> , and the celebrated fashion designer, <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/bale/hd_bale.htm">Cristóbal Balenciaga</a>, this village is also home to the delicious Txakoli wine, a vivid coastline, a nature park, a breathtaking medieval church and the tastiest grilled fish you will ever sample in your life. Estupendo!Getaria’s narrow cobbled streets that wind down to the port are filled with traditional Basque charm. One particularly standout feature is the Gothic church of San Salvador, dating back to the 15thC. The building was officially declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Spanish Property of Cultural Interest) in 1895.<h3>The Mouse of Getaria</h3>There is something you should know about Getaria - it has its own mouse! The aptly nicknamed Mouse of Getaria is less furry and more rocky, but just as likely to make you squeal — only this time in delight at its rugged scenery. Officially known as Mount San Antón, the Mouse of Getaria was given its colloquial name due to its shape.Originally an island, Mount San Antón was artificially annexed in the 15th century and is now the home of a nature park. It’s easy enough to reach the summit of San Antón and the top offers beautiful views of the Bay of Biscay. Plus, you can boast to your friends that you climbed a giant mouse!

<h3>Txakoli</h3>Let’s talk about the txakoli, shall we? If you are looking for the perfect accompaniment to your pintxos then this is it! Crisp, dry and slightly sparkling, txakoli is mainly produced in the Basque Country, with around 900,000 litres produced in Getaria each year alone. Many locals from the Basque community are extremely proud of their connection to txakoli, so it would be rude not to drink it with them … at least that’s the excuse I like to use.<h3>Tolosa</h3>Best known for its Saturday market, Tolosa is home to the largest market in the Basque country. Farmers from the region gather to sell their fresh local produce, which is of some of the highest quality in the world. At the market one can pick up delights such as alubia de Tolosa (dark beans used in many Basque dishes), T-bone ox steaks and plenty of sweet treats.Those with a sweet tooth will be pleased to know there is even a museum in Tolosa dedicated to the house of Gorrotxategi, a confectionary shop selling artisanal sweets since 1680. You haven’t lived until you have tried their <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turr%C3%B3n">turrón</a>.

Like many beautiful Basque towns, it is both the food and the sights that make the place magical. Not only is Tolosa a foodie’s daydream, it is also picture-perfect. Narrow, cobbled streets lined with balconied buildings give way to spacious piazzas or glistening riverside walks. Then, of course, there is the Santa María Church. Located in the historic quarter, the 17thC façade with ribbed vaults is breathtaking.

From San Sebastián to Bilbao, let your journey to Basque Country begin on a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/spain-basque-rioja-biking">biking</a> trip, a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/basque-country-france-to-spain-walking-hiking">hiking</a> adventure, or a fully tailored <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/basque-country-bespoke">bespoke</a> journey.

Discover the Basque Country’s hidden gems—from secluded coastal villages and scenic hiking trails to local traditions, cuisine, and lesser-known cultural experiences in northern Spain.

Basque Country’s Best-Kept Secrets | Hidden Gems in Northern Spain

Basque Country

Nestled in the northern region of Spain and the southwest part of France, Basque Country is a distinctly unique and culturally rich region alive with a remarkable personality. Many historians believe that the Basques are Europe’s oldest civilization—and they have managed to preserve their culture over time, even speaking their own language, Euskara. Boasting a rugged, wild ocean coastline along the Bay of Biscay and characterized by lush green landscapes dotted with mountains and rolling hills, the views are a visual feast. Renowned for their exceptional cuisine and burgeoning gastronomical scene, the Basque Country is also a culinary feast. Find cultural heritage and historical charm in cities like Bilbao and San Sebastian, where modern life blends with tradition. Here, people have a zest for life noted in their dances and festivals, their love of the local sport, pelota, and their keen interest in art.&nbsp;

Ancient culture, modern edge

Cycle coastal cliffs and Pyrenean foothills, dine in San Sebastián on small group or private bespoke trips through Basque Country, with Michelin access.

Basque Country Bike Tours | Butterfield & Robinson

Explore Basque country from gorgeous San Sebastian, the heart of this coastal region. Overlooking the Bay of Biscay, this beautiful town is framed with beaches and boasts a picturesque waterfront promenade. During this gastronomical adventure explore all the highlights this region has to offer. Visit a small port-side village on the Atlantic coast where the locals are recognized for their fishing skills. Venture into the verdant countryside for hearty farmhouse meals and mountain walks. Explore the coast between Spain and France over the wild Cantabrian Sea. Indulge in endless pintxos, visit the oldest winery in the region, bottle your own cider and participate in a hands-on cooking workshop in a typical txoko! All the while enjoying the wonderful Spanish views and warm hospitality of the Basques.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Michelin-Star Dining

Cultural Immersion

Straddling France and Spain, Basque Country plays by its own rules—and (quite literally) speaks its own language. From San Sebastián’s foodie fever to Bilbao’s modern flair, this place pulses with pride, passion and just the right amount of rebellion. Explore its green hills, drink in the crashing surf and experience pintxos worth planning a trip around.

A coastal and countryside feast for the senses

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Bike Spain's Basque coast from Zarautz to San Sebastián on a custom itinerary. More Michelin stars per square kilometre than anywhere on earth, built for you.

Basque Country Private Tours: Zarautz to San Sebastián & Pintxos Bars

Incredible Rides

Vibrant Culture

Exceptional Wines

Northern Spain is having a moment—and it’s delicious. Ride through Basque, Rioja and Duero, where bold architecture rises from ancient vines, jaw-dropping shorelines beg to be explored, chefs rewrite the rules, and winemakers blend tradition with a twist. Snack on txorizo, sip unexpected vintages, and meet the makers redefining this storied land. Yes, it's Spain. But no, you've never seen it quite like this.

Immerse yourself in the sensory symphony

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Experience Designer

Spend 5 nights cycling La Rioja in a small group. A stay in Frank Gehry's Marqués de Riscal hotel, private bodega access and Spain's best pintxos at the source.

Rioja Bike Tour: Frank Gehry's Hotel, Spain's Finest Reds & Pintxos Bars

Embark on an enchanting journey through the land of the Basques, where whispers of Europe’s ancient language echo through the valleys. Your adventure begins in the heart of the French Basque Country, winding along quaint country roads and trails that reveal breathtaking mountain views. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural life as you explore the charming villages surrounding Bidarray, while the distant sound of Mancech sheep bells fill the air. Cross into the Spanish Basque Country and wander through the small village of Aia to reach the serene Pagoeta Natural Park. Follow the awe-inspiring trail to Flysch Geopark, where ancient geological wonders meet the crashing waves of the sea.&nbsp;Your Basque journey ends in the vibrant San Sebastián, where you’ll meet our friend for&nbsp;an authentic pintxos tour, followed by an invitation to an exclusive evening at the Gastronomic Society.

Great Walks

Insider Access

Authentic Food

Walk from France to Spain (passport optional, appetite mandatory) through Basque Country, where sheep bells ring, and jagged cliffs hover wave-batter shores. Wander postcard-perfect villages, stroll lush Pagoeta Park, and see geology throw a tantrum at Flysch Geopark. End in San Sebastián, swapping your trail boots for pintxos, vino and an evening of culinary mischief at a secret Gastronomic Society.

Wander from the verdant countryside to coastal San Sebastián

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

Spend 5 nights hiking the Basque coast from Biarritz to San Sebastián in a small group. Clifftop trails, surf towns and Europe's most acclaimed culinary coast.

Basque Country’s 6 Best-Kept Secrets

By Christine Tucker

Basque Country

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