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Hike the heart of the Basque country

5 (49)

Donostia-San Sebastian, ES

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Immerse yourself in the true essence of the Basque country with this incredible hiking experience. Led by a passionate Basque native, you will embark on a journey through picturesque valleys and pastures, surrounded by breathtaking beauty. Indulge in a delicious mountain snack with cider at an authentic shepherd's edge, and even have the option to ascend to one of the highest peaks in the Basque Country. As you complete a circular route through the stunning landscape, a mini-yoga session will help you unwind and stretch your muscles. The day concludes with a drink in a 500-year-old farmhouse, and for those seeking an extra thrill, you can even take a refreshing mountain bath on the way back. This captivating adventure is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and truly experience the heart of the Basque country.

About this experience

Non Refundable There is no return, refund or cancellation possible with this product
Suitable for 2-8 Participants
Small Group Tour, Private Tour
Self Guided Experience

Highlights

Hiking to the shepherd's paradise
Tasting the best mountain food and drinks
Enjoying the beautiful valley and pastures
Option to climb one of the highest peaks
Finishing the day with a drink in a 500-year-old farmhouse

Included

Private transportation
Snacks
Breakfast
Accident and liability insurance.
Mountain guide, mountain sticks and water.

Not included

Lunch

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Hike the heart of the Basque country and immerse yourself in an authentic experience like no other. This artisan, unique, and genuine adventure is designed to let you feel and live the true essence of the Basque Country, away from the tourist masses. Led by a knowledgeable Basque native who is deeply passionate about their culture, gastronomy, and country, this hike offers an opportunity to explore the untouched beauty of this region while indulging in the best mountain food and drinks along the way.

What to expect?

Embark on an incredible journey as you hike through the picturesque Basque countryside, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and pastures. Starting at 700 meters from sea level, follow an easy trail that leads you to a stunning valley nestled 950 meters high. Here, at an authentic shepherd’s edge, you will enjoy a delightful mountain snack paired with refreshing cider. Choose to challenge yourself by ascending one of the highest peaks of the Basque Country, standing tall at 1528 meters, or simply relax and savor the beauty of the valley. Conclude the hike with a circular route through a truly magnificent area and engage in a mini-yoga session to stretch your muscles. To top it all off, delight in a drink at a 500-year-old farmhouse before making your way back, with an optional refreshing stop to take a dip in the mountain waters.

Who is this for?

This hiking experience is designed for thrill-seeking adventurers who crave an authentic and immersive journey through the heart of the Basque country. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast looking to explore the unspoiled beauty of the region, this tour promises a truly unforgettable experience. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups are all welcome. The easy trail and moderate difficulty level ensure that participants of various fitness levels can enjoy this mesmerizing adventure.

Why book this?

This hike offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the Basque country like a local. With an expert guide who possesses an intimate knowledge of the region, you'll gain insights that go beyond the typical tourist experience. The chance to indulge in mouthwatering mountain food and traditional drinks adds an extra layer of authenticity to the journey. Additionally, the option to ascend one of the highest peaks allows thrill-seekers to challenge themselves and achieve an incredible sense of accomplishment. The serene beauty of the Basque countryside, combined with the opportunity to engage in a mini-yoga session and relax in a 500-year-old farmhouse, creates a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Good to know

During this hike, you can expect to cover a distance of 12 km with an increased elevation of 600 meters. The duration of the activity is approximately 600 minutes, ensuring ample time to savor the surroundings and enjoy each moment. The inclusive full breakfast before the hike consists of delicious fruit, homemade pastries, and refreshing coffee. Along the way, you'll relish a delightful snack with a drink, comprising natural and locally sourced products. The meeting point is easily identifiable, as the guide will be wearing a typical Basque black beret.

Reviews

Participants of this hike have raved about the truly authentic and immersive experience it offers. They commend the knowledgeable guide for providing valuable insights into Basque culture, history, and gastronomy. The stunning landscapes and the opportunity to enjoy delicious mountain food and drinks have left lasting memories. Many reviewers have expressed a desire to return and explore more of the Basque country, captivated by the hidden gems and unique experiences offered by this hike. Overall, the reviews highlight the hike's ability to provide an unforgettable and genuine adventure in the heart of the Basque country.

About this product

How long before the event do I need to book?

You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

At least one adult or senior required per booking

Meeting point & End point

You can find me uploaded in the kiosk and wearing a typical Basque black beret.

Kiosko del Boulevard, Alameda del Blvd., 25W, 20003 Donostia-San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, ES

Additional information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The schedule is ideal to enjoy the experience, but I am always ready to personalize it.
Bring appropriate clothes and shoes for hiking, and towel and swimsuit if you like to swim.
If you have any particular request for food or drink, no worries you can decide at the moment the food or drinks.

Reviews

(49)

5 (49)

jamesandmarco

June our guide was fantastic introducing us to the local walking scene but also giving us a fun historical and cultural description of the area. I wish we could have stayed longer and done another tour with him as his friendly demeanor made us feel like we were his friends! Thank you! M

thea_bramming

We went on a customised hike planned in details through great dialogue with Julen. He was amazing at understanding our needs as a family (children aged 11 and 15) and planned a three days' trip which included hikes, sleeping in guesthouses and visiting hidden gems such as spectacular views and cosy local restaurants. We met for a warm welcome and instructions, and after that we were on our own - with Julen only a WhatsApp or phonecall away to help us. By the end of the trip, we met again for a cosy wrap up and sharing of stories. The most personal, local and spectacular experience that we can highly recommend.

N7627PWjohnb

Julen was great right from the moment he hoped out of the van. Such a sweet person. He is very knowledgable and passionate about this region. We first went to a beach cafe outside of San Sebastien for breakfast. After that the drive to our hiking destination was as beautiful as the hike in the Basque Mountains. Just Gorgeous. The clouds were coming in and out as we hiked with glimpses of valleys well below us. The horses and sheep roaming on the mountain side made the experience even better. After getting to the summit we hiked down a little and had lunch at a refugio ( great food which made this experience even better). Julen is one of the Best hosts we have ever had! Highly recommended.

WestCoastThirdCoast

This was an unforgettable hike. On the day we hiked, it was very windy so the toughest part was the heavy wind (otherwise, it was pretty easy). We recommend wearing layers. There were great views. At the top, there was a grassy field filled with horses wearing bells. I loved hearing the wind blow and the bells ringing-- it was so peaceful. There was also a restaurant at the end of the trail where we each had a plate of food (eggs, fries, and a meat), broth, cidre, coffee, and a shot. This was exactly what we needed after the hike up. Julen is the perfect guide-- gracious, informative, and so friendly. We are so lucky to have him as a new friend and loved getting to know him and learn about Basque Country. We recommend booking this tour immediately and being open to new adventures that may come. Through Julen's friendliness and sheer luck, on the way down, we met some locals hiking and had the privilege to get to know them over coffee, wine, and good cheese. It may not be possible to replicate this organic experience, but I believe that good people attract other good people, and Julen is good peoples. As such, you will have a beautiful experience no matter what.

queremendi

We were a group of seniors (eleven)visiting the Basque Country. Our interests covered a range of activities from trekking to cultural events and of course food. Julen and Naroa from Aupa Hi produced a programme combining such many pleasures, walks of course by the coast and inland but also specials events on water (traineras competition and Urdaibai), gastronomic delights and visits to museums and exhibitions. They also helped in hotel and restaurants reservations. Always attentive, full of enthusiasm and competence, Julen and Naroa paid constant attention to our well being. The whole resulting in an intensive and very successful week. Great job!

scalpaa

thank you very much for this experience our group really liked it and we had a lot of fun! we liked your welcome and your pintxos

travelingmcmahans

We spent our first day in Spain with Julen and couldn't have asked for a better day. He took a little group of travelers on an outing that was the perfect start to this trip, introducing us to the warmth and hospitality of the Basque (not to mention the amazing food and drink!). Our tour included a visit to a several centuries old farm run by the same family for generations where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast (don't be fooled, it's not lunch!;) and met the family and some of the other farm inhabitants (like dogs and baby goats!), a vineyard, a village cafe, and finally an afternoon cooking a delicious lunch together at a Basque gastronomic society. Julen is very passionate about sharing his home, and helping build new friendships, and his enthusiasm is contagious. He was also super accommodating and flexible with our travel plans. As a bonus he sent us some great photos he took of the day as well as a recipe for the incredible chicken dish we had at lunch, and gave us his recommendations for where to eat in San Sebastian. 10/10 all the way, an incredible value, and I'd go back to San Sebastian just to take another of his tours.

Amanda M

I’m staying in San Sebastián/Donostia for a semester, so when a friend visited I wanted her to get the flavor of the Basque Country. I couldn’t have done better then choosing to spend the day with Julen! He took us to his native village, to visit friends from his childhood who work farms in traditional ways. We saw a working bread oven and explored a cheese making operation, including cuddling two day old goats, then ate with the farmers in their stunning front yard. Next we went to a local vineyard, and tried their wine and their sausage. Finally, Julen took us to his gastronomic society where he and his father cooked us an amazing meal and invited us to help. It was such a warm, inclusive experience- so very fun, so packed with local culture, and just delicious! I can’t recommend him more highly. When friends come next month a tour with him will be the center of the visit.

TheSheepDani

I thought about it for quite a long time what to write but I came to the conclusion it just cannot be put into words what an amazing experience this is - so do yourself a favor and do not miss out! Julen is the most wonderful guide that you can wish for. He creates a great vibe and really does everything to make you have the most memorable experience possible. I did not want this day to end but luckily we made friends on this tour and continued hanging out with them afterwards. Julen made me wanna come back to San Sebastian so badly and I am definitely gonna do another tour with him again. The Basque Country has so much to offer. If you are looking for a local experience off the beaten path, enjoy amazing food in even better company - spend your time with AUPAHI! :) Eskerrik asko and see you anytime soon again Julen! :D

RandLCornelius

Aupa Hi! (Julen) offers a variety of experiences in San Sebastion, not all of which are advertised through TripAdvisor. With more time, we’d have loved to take his “Hike the heart of the Basque Country” tour. This review is for Julen’s PINTXO FEST IN THE SECRET KITCHEN cooking class that we arranged through AirBnB. You should be able to set this activity up through his website as well. This was a four-hour pintxo cooking class at his “secret” kitchen. Without spoiling the secret, let me say that this class was a unique experience that was the highlight of our trip. With Julen’s effervescent guidance, we were offered a window into Basque culture not typically afforded the usual tourist. We made five different pintxos including a seared tuna dish that was outstanding. We applaud Julen’s efforts to promote Basque culinary arts and heartily recommend his class.

Collected by Evendo & our supplier partners

2024-06-20 11:48