Bespoke
Basque Country Bespoke
A coastal and countryside feast for the senses
Country
Spain
Accommodation Options
Boutique hotels, grand hotels, luxury mountain retreats & private villas
Things to See & Do
Biking, culture, culinary & hiking
Best Time To Go
May – July & September
Carbon Neutral Trip
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.
Experience Designer
Trip Inspiration
Snapshot of a Day
Be amazed hiking along the impressive flysch formations in the UNESCO geopark, where rocky-layered cliffs—shaped over the course of 65-million years—will leave you surely breathless.
Snapshot of a Day
The window of your boutique hotel room provides the perfect vantage point to watch surfers catching waves along the Basque Country coast.
Trip Inspiration
Countryside to Coastline Walking
Recommended Duration: 6-8 days
Best Time To Go: Late spring, early summer and early fall
Things to See and Do: Visit a Txakoli winery or a local sidrería. Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark.
Don't Miss Out On: The pintxos tour in downtown San Sebastian, and dinner at the Gastronomic Society. Learning pelota, the region's local sport and pride.
Snapshot of a Day
Climb the 240 steps of the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, famously featured in ‘Game of Thrones,’ to reach a shrine dedicated to St. John the Baptist on the rocky island.
Snapshot of a Day
Bike, hike or rock climb in Urkiola Nature Park, a mountainous reserve with limestone precipices, ravines and deep valleys—a favourite spot among locals.
Trip Inspiration
Multi-Active from Coast to Countryside
Basque Country’s countryside and coast provide the perfect setting for a multi-active adventure—and the cuisine is an experience in itself. Bike the Iron Valley of Bilbao, surf like a local at a beach in San Sebastian and explore the city’s vibrant urban scene. Breathe in the crisp coastal air as you hike across rocky slopes towards the fishing village of Pasaia, where views of France to Biscay await. In the countryside, you’ll stay at charming family-run hotels and explore the breathtaking scenery on foot or by bike. The allure of the Basque Country is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Recommended Duration: 6-8 days
Best Time To Go: Late spring, early summer and early fall
Things to See and Do: Climb the steps of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Urkiola Nature Park.
Don't Miss Out On: A surf class at the beach town Zarautz.
Snapshot of a Day
Descend into the valley on small country roads to the Zugarramundi caves, where your guide will share tales of myths and legends from this village known for its witches and fantastic stories.
Trip Inspiration
Fun Family Adventures in Basque Country
Basque Country is the perfect playground for families. From multi-active adventures along the coast and countryside to cultural immersions in the cities, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the beach in San Sebastián and savour delicious fare on a downtown food tour. In Bilbao, explore the Guggenheim Museum and experience the city's cultural charm and heritage. In medieval villages like Sare and Zugarramundi, delve into myths and legends as you explore limestone caves with your guide. And in the countryside, have fun with the kids meeting grazing cows and sheep along the way.
Recommended Duration: 6-8 days
Best Time To Go: Late spring, early summer and early fall
Things to See and Do: Learn about the construction of historical boats at a famous local boat factory.
Don't Miss Out On: The bike ride to a cheese tasting at a local farm.
Featured stays
Akelarre Hotel
Location: San Sebastian, Spain
UR Bare Hotel
Location: Txakoli Wine Region, Spain
Palacio Arriluce Hotel
Location: Getxo, Spain
Auberge Ostape
Location: Northern Basque Country, France
Process
Step 1
Let's connect
Whether you have a specific trip in mind or are looking for inspiration, get in touch with your travel preferences, and one of our Experience Designers will kick off the planning.
Step 2
Detailed Brief
After a conversation to learn more about your trip, you’ll receive details on an adventure with us, including activities and accommodation options in the destinations. An initial Trip Development Fee is made before moving to the next stage.
Step 3
Customized Itinerary and Confirmation
Your Experience Designer will share a tailored trip plan and will collaborate to adjust and finalize the itinerary. A per-person trip deposit is requested to confirm your trip, with full payment made 95 days* before departure.
Step 4
Support, Start to Finish
Before your trip, you’ll receive details on every step of your journey. You’ll have dedicated support while on trip, and when you return, our Traveller Relationship team will be ready to welcome your feedback and explore ideas for your next B&R adventure!
* Final payment terms may vary based on destination and type of trip.
Good to know
Time of year
Late July and early August is peak travel season. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, we don't recommend travel during those months.
Terrain
Some hikes have challenging up and downhills and uneven terrain along rocky trails. We recommend familiarity with hiking in these conditions.
Dining
Be aware that lunches and dinners are scheduled later than you may be used to, as is common in Spain. We'll embrace the local dining traditions by enjoying our meals later in the day.
Why choose a Bespoke trip?
An Effortless Journey
Our expert Experience Designers are perfectionists, using first-hand knowledge of routes, restaurants and hotels to create an unforgettable experience. This means you’re in the best hands to plan your dream trip.
Lifelong Memories
Our Bespoke trips are often described as lifechanging. When every detail and magical moment is planned just for you and your group – you'll get exactly what you’re after, and more. The perfect addition to the memory book.
Years of Local Friendships
We’ve been at this since 1966, and our Experience Designers have been planting seeds and building friendships around the world since day one. The loyalty we share with our connections is invaluable and is what allows us to give access exclusive to B&R.
Creativity and Spontaneity
From our office to our guides on the road, every person who touches your trip pours their passion and creativity into it. When you travel Bespoke, you’ll work closely with passionate planners to create the perfect fit for you and your travelling companions.
