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Voyage vélo Cycling holidays in France
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Basque country

Cycling holiday to the highlights of the French Basque country

From Biarritz, this cycling holiday takes you along the Basque country coast and through its majestic countryside at the foothills of the Pyrenees. This cross-border region has kept a strong identity and a sense of enjoying life that is contagious on a bike trip there!

Reviews (12) :
4.83 / 5
Reference BPB0801
  • Loop trip
  • 8 days
  • Challenging
  • From April to October
  • Minimum age 14 years old
GPSGPS-app available
From
Prices
1299€ / pers.
Book here
  • Itinerary
    • Our self guided cycling holiday in the Basque country will totally immerse you in a welcoming region, which is particularly attached to its land and proud of its traditions. You cycle on quiet country roads or cycle paths, on an electric bike (for those who want to make it a challenge, feel free to ride on a classic bike). You discover Bayonne with its colourful timbered houses and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a stopover on the pilgrimage of Santiago de Compostela. You ride along traditional villages, where you can enjoy the delicious local products such as the famous Espelette pepers. Your cycle itinerary takes you further to the Atlantic coast on the Velodyssey bike route, passing by the coastal town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Bidart before going back to Biarritz. This week bike tour will provide you with an all-round experience of the Basque country.

    Day 1
     
     

    Arrival in Biarritz

    Discover Biarritz, the historical capital of surfing in Europe and one of the most famous seaside resorts on the Atlantic coast. Stroll through the town and admire the palace built by Napoleon III for his wife Eugénie, the "Rocher de la Vierge" (Rock of the Virgin), the lighthouse of Biarritz or the "Cité de l’Océan" (a museum complex). This former fishing village, which became a popular holiday resort for European aristocrats in the 19th century, is now a dynamic and welcoming city that will seduce you with its relaxed lifestyle.

    Day 2
     
     

    Biarritz - Cambo-les-Bains

    Altitude
    ±195m
    Bike
    36km
    E-bike (touring bike available)
    On this first riding day, you leave behind the luxury hotels and wonderful houses of Biarritz to follow the coastline and the Adour river towards Bayonne. It is worth a break to admire its nice colourful houses, enter the cathedral and sense the atmosphere of the historic town. Then, you enter the Basque hinterland and cycle along the Nive river banks to the village of Ustaritz.

    You cycle on small country roads to reach the spa town of Cambo-les-Bains. Do not miss to visit the beautiful Villa Arnaga, house of the French writer Edmond Rostand, author of Cyrano de Bergerac.

    Day 3
     
     

    Cambo-les-Bains - Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

    Altitude
    ±860m
    Bike
    40km
    E-bike (touring bike available)
    You leave Cambo-les-Bains, riding up the first climbs of the Pyrenees foothills. Take the time to admire the magnificent panorama under your wheels. Your bike itinerary continues in the valley where cows and sheeps will keep you company. For gourmets, we recommend a short stop at the Basque museum of pastoralism and cheese. You can see the affinage cellars and taste some cheese !

    Your route will then reach that of the pilgrims of Santiago de Compostela joining Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the last stop in France before the climb of the Roncesvalles pass and Spain. Let yourself be seduced by the charming character of this town. Discover its medieval streets and its local crafts without missing the Saint-Jacques gate, listed in the UNESCO World Heritage.

    Day 4
     
     

    Hiking around Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

    Altitude
    ±619m
    7km or 15km (2 to 5-hour walk)
    You have the choice between a resting day to discover Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port or a hike in the beautiful surrounding valley.

    This hike is accessible to all and makes you discover the Arradoy and its AOC Irouléguy terraced vineyards. The gentle ascent offers a breathtaking view over the valley and the Pyrenees. You reach the orientation table and a picnic area, where you can stop before walking down.

    For the bravest, an itinerary leads you to the peak of the Arradoy on small paths before entering a forest of oaks and chestnuts with an enchanting atmosphere!

    Day 5
     
     

    Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port - Itxassou

    Altitude
    ±795m
    Bike
    40km
    E-bike (touring bike available)
    Ride up on little countryside roads and admire the wonderful landscapes of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and the Aldudes valley. Discover the vineyards of Irouléguy (the smallest appellation in France) planted by the monks of Roncesvalles in the 12th century. From small villages and their authentic farms to the Roman village of Saint-Etienne-de-Baïgorry, discover the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.

    Your itinerary takes you on nice mountain roads surrounded by the soft hills of peaceful pastures where the cow bells are ringing. From Bidarray on, you cycle along the Nivelle river to Itxassou, a typical Basque village where you will probably have the opportunity to watch pelota players on the fronton square.

    Day 6
     
     

    Itxassou - Sare

    Altitude
    ±420m
    Bike
    25km
    E-bike (touring bike available)
    This morning you’ll leave Ixtassou and head towards the charming village of Espelette, where houses are colorfully decorated with dried peppers. Along the way, stop at local farms to buy fresh fruits or tasty treats. After crossing Pinodieta Pass, you’re rewarded with time to visit Ainhoa, designated as one of France’s prettiest villages.

    You are now close to the French-Spanish border. Pass the old Customs House before cycling on Spanish roads. The village of Zugarramurdi is worth a stop to see its well-known caves and "Witches Museum". Here you have a choice to ride directly to Sare or take an 8km detor and visit the impressive Caves of Sare. The 45-minute guided tour takes you 900meters deep into the cave.

    Day 7
     
     

    Sare - Biarritz

    Altitude
    ±365m
    Bike
    32km
    E-bike (touring bike available)
    You leave Sare and cross the Saint-Ignace pass. Take the "Petit Train de La Rhune’’ and discover the breathtaking views at the summit of La Rhune. This authentic vintage rack railway train dating from 1924 will take you on a 35-minute ride, up to 905 meter high, where you will enjoy one of the loveliest panoramic views on the French and Spanish Atlantic coast and the peaks of the Pyrenees.

    A few pedal strokes further, you reach Saint-Jean-de-Luz and its sumptuous houses built in the neo-Basque style. Your cycle itinerary follows the "Vélodyssée" along the Atlantic coast, its beaches, its cliffs and waves loved by surfers. On your way discover the town of Guéthary, famous for its sumptuous villas. Finally, you come back to Biarritz and enjoy its relaxed atmosphere in the evening.

    Day 8
     
     

    Departure from Biarritz

    After breakfast, take a last stroll in the streets of Biarritz before leaving.
  • Accommodation

    • Category A

    You’ll enjoy staying in these clean and cozy 2-3 Star hotels that give you a pleasant rest after your day of biking. Breakfast is included when you spend th night in these friendly and family-run hotels.
    * Example of the type of accommodation
  • Bikes, luggage and documents
    • Bikes

    On your arrival day, we provide you with:

    • an electric bike adjusted to your size
    • equipped : front rack pack with an integrated file compartment, saddlebag, helmet (on demand), repairing toolkit with patches etc.



    Luggage

    Our services include luggage transport in order to let you enjoy your trip comfortably and without stress :
    • We transport your luggage from one accommodation to the next using a private vehicle.
    • Your luggage is directly delivered in your accommodation before you arrive.
    • We provide a saddlebag for the things you shall need during the day.

    Our word of advice : as we know from experience, we strongly recommend you to avoid wearing a backpack during your cycling trip.
    If you expect to arrive at the next accommodation before 5 p.m., we recommend that you take an extra set of clothes with you in your bicycle bag.


    Travel documents

    A cycling holiday is the best way to explore a region and discover its culture, landscapes and local traditions.

    Your tour is self-guided to give you the freedom to ride at your own pace. You will be provided all the information you need to enjoy the itinerary and its points of interests.

    We can provide you with travel documents in paper format (for a supplement of €15 for printing and postage), which include:
    • a roadbook with maps that we drew at the easiest scale to follow on a bike
    • a roadbook with step-by-step description giving the direction to follow at each intersection and highlighting the points of interest

    Example of a map and of a step-by-step description


    Our GPS App

    For this trip, you can also use our smartphone app featuring GPS guidance (without extra fee).

    You will find in the app all the information given in the map and step-by-step roadbooks. You will be located on the itinerary with the GPS device of your phone. The route and directions to follow will be both viewable on the screen of your phone and announced aloud. As you ride along the itinerary, you will be given information about visits, restaurants, services and useful alerts on the way.

    -> You need to have a smartphone and download Le Velo Voyageur app on your Apple or Android store before the trip. All details concerning the downloading and the use of the application will be given after we have confirmed the booking and the balance is paid. Once the trip is downloaded, the GPS guidance can be used off-line.
  • Practical information

    • To get to departure point :

    • By plane: flight to Biarritz.
    • By train: Direct TGV (fast trains) from Paris Montparnasse. The duration of the trip is about 4h10. Then, take a bus to reach the city center (20-25min). To plan your trip, www.raileurope.com.


    Parking:

    It is very difficult to park in downtown Biarritz, especially in high season. If you wish, you can park your car in the secure car park at Biarritz SNCF station (~ 4km from the city center). The price is 45€/7days. You must then, take the bus to reach the city center (20-25min).

    Otherwise, you can also park in Anglet (~4km from Biarritz). Parking is usually much easier. Our bike partner has a shop in Anglet, so you can pick up your bikes directly and cycle to Biarritz (30min).


    Meeting time:

    The first day is an arrival day without cycling. You arrive whenever you want depending on from where you come. Please note that rooms are usually available in the middle of the afternoon depending on your accommodation. We thank you to advise us if you plan to arrive late.

    .

  • Reviews

    •   Memory of the trip  

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    12 bike travelers reviews 4.83 / 5

    “ Quaint Basque Countryside Adventure ”

    On the 2024-07-08 by Wilson
    The route was wonderful! We cycled along scenic bike paths and beautiful, small country roads along rivers and mountains to magical villages. This region's weather is similar to the Pacific Northwest, so be prepared for days with morning mist and gorgeous greenery.

    “ Beau voyage dans le Pays Basque ”

    On the 2022-08-15 by Frédéric
    Nous avons adoré le Pays Basque et ses paysages verdoyants et vallonnés. Un voyage sportif, même avec un vélo électrique ! Les étapes étaient bien calibrées, l'application plutôt pratique, les hébergements très corrects (même si nous nous attendions à un standing un peu supérieur)

    “ olivier ”

    On the 2022-08-15 by olivier
    Superbe séjour, et découvrir le pays basque en vélo est très agréable. Sans aucune contraintes logistiques, on peux juste profiter !!! A refaire

    “ Un très beau circuit ”

    On the 2022-06-16 by Marion
    Super circuit varié , beaucoup de routes tranquilles, des ambiances différentes, et une excellente organisation? Nous avons 66 et 67 ans,nous ne sommes pas des sportifs mais aimons le vélo tranquille : nous avons fait ce circuit en louant des vélos à assistance électrique et du coup c'était parfait: quand même un peu d'effort mais pas trop.

    “ En rouge et noir ”

    On the 2021-09-27 by Albert
    A la portée de tous avec l' application GPS afin de découvrir une région accueillante. La demi pension est souhaitable en hors saison Logistique bagages sans faille

    “ Super ballade à vélo dans des coins magnifiques du ays basque français ”

    On the 2021-09-06 by guillemette
    Magnifique trajet à travers le pays basques français sur des petites routes en grande partie très tranquilles au milieu de paysages à vous couper le souffle, matériel mis à disposition de très bonne qualité et très complet, hébergements confortables et de qualité. Des conseils de visite intéressants dans certains lieux . Très belle semaine de vacances en plein air sans être trop sportives.

    “ Un circuit bien équilibré et varié ”

    On the 2021-08-31 by Patrick
    Ce voyage nous a véritablement ravis. Les étapes pas trop longues laissent bien du temps pour effectuer des visites au cours de la balade. Il y a tant à découvrir au Pays Basque ... des paysages à la gastronomie en passant par le patrimoine ! Le trajet évite, autant que possible, les grands axes routiers et c'est bien agréable. Les hôtels choisis ont tous leur caractère et leur charme,

    “ Vélo en famille ”

    On the 2021-08-09 by Mick
    Très joli parcours à travers la campagne et sans la foule . Le parcours est très bien préparé . Vous avez le temps de faire les visites proposées. Très bon accueil dans les hôtels . Ce parcours reste cependant difficle pour des personnes non entraînées . Il y a beaucoup de montées et de descentes !

    “ ONGI ETORRI ”

    On the 2021-06-22 by Jean Paul
    Cette randonnée cyclotouristique propose une découverte du pays basque dans sa palette de couleurs , qui allient beauté des décors , immersion dans les traditions locales , culture et gastronomie dans un cocktail bien pondéré , y compris en matière sportive , que l'option vélo à assistance électrique rend confortable .Le parcours a été très bien pensé , hors des sentiers battus . Une belle surprise . A recommander sans réserve !

    “ Belle semaine sportive au Pays Basque B ”

    On the 2020-08-26 by Catherine
    Mon fils ado, 16 ans, un ami 74 ans, et une belle semaine sportive dans l'authentique Pays Basque avec les vélos électriques. On part le matin à travers les montées et pentes des beaux paysages basques, plutôt rapidement sur les parcours pour retrouver de charmants et authentiques lieux d'hébergement, au pied d'un fronton à Itxassou, en pleine nature à Sarre, en plein centre ville à Saint Jean Pied de Port et dans le charmant Petit Hotel de Biarritz au pied du spot de surf. Velo voyageur nous a accompagné rapidement avec un vélo défaillant et merci à eux pour l'étude du parcours GPS hors des sentiers battus et la recherche des lieux authentiques.

    “ Perfect trip ”

    On the 2018-07-16 by Joby T
    My son & I had the loveliest time cycling round the French Basque conutry. Thank you for making it such a special experience.

    “ Le Pays Basque à 360° ”

    On the 2017-09-03 by Michel
    Un très beau circuit à découvrir au rythme tranquille du vélo électrique qui aplanit le relief très marqué tout en permettant d'admirer sans fatigue les beaux paysages. Les étapes sont plutôt courtes mais bien calculées. Les vacances, quoi !
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