Experience an unforgettable journey along the St. James Way, Basque Whalers, and Hondarribia on this private cultural adventure. Immerse yourself in the rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and charming coastal towns of the Basque Country. This tour will take you on a captivating exploration of forests, cliffs, and a lighthouse transformed into a medieval castle. But that's not all! Encounter the fascinating story of a 16th-century ship built using traditional techniques and cross a fjord by boat. Discover a Venetian town that once captivated the writer of Les Misérables and explore a unique half-fishing, half-medieval town that has caught the attention of the New York Times itself.
With a total duration of 540 minutes, this tour will lead you through various highlights of the Basque region. Begin by hiking Mount Ulia, a scenic coastal route known as the St. James Way. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by stunning coves, rugged cliffs, and artistically shaped sandstone rock formations. Explore the fascinating Albaola, the sea factory of the Basques, where craftsmen are diligently constructing a replica of a 16th-century whaling ship using traditional techniques. Enjoy a boat ride to the medieval fishing village of San Juan, indulge in a delicious 3-course traditional Basque lunch, and experience the breathtaking views from Mount Jaizkibel. Conclude your journey by delving into the picturesque fortified town of Hondarribia, admiring its narrow streets and discovering a hidden collection of tapestries by Rubens in the castle of Emperor Charles V.
This private cultural adventure is designed for curious travelers who seek unique experiences and wish to immerse themselves in the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Basque Country. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an avid hiker, or simply someone who appreciates picturesque coastal towns, this tour offers something for everyone. It welcomes solo explorers, couples, families, and groups of friends who want to create cherished memories together. No matter your age or background, this adventure promises to captivate and inspire.
Embark on this extraordinary journey to uncover the hidden gems of the Basque Country. The unique combination of hiking the St. James Way, learning about the Basque whaling heritage, and exploring charming coastal towns creates a truly immersive experience. Witness the dedication and craftsmanship behind the construction of a 16th-century ship replica at Albaola. Indulge in the flavors of traditional Basque cuisine during a delightful 3-course lunch. Marvel at the extraordinary biodiversity and awe-inspiring views from Mount Jaizkibel. Immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Hondarribia and discover the rich art collection housed within the castle of Emperor Charles V. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural exploration, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
Make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes along the way. Don't forget to bring your appetite for the delicious traditional Basque lunch included in the tour. During the boat ride to San Juan, take in the tranquil atmosphere of the medieval fishing village and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Explore the narrow streets of Hondarribia, adorned with flowers and steeped in medieval history. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the remarkable tapestries by Rubens in the castle of Emperor Charles V. This tour promises an enchanting glimpse into the diverse and captivating wonders of the Basque Country.
Previous travelers have been captivated by the beauty and charm of this cultural adventure. They have praised the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and stories of each location to life. Visitors have expressed their appreciation for the stunning coastal views along the St. James Way hike and the fascinating insights gained at Albaola, where the construction of a 16th-century whaling ship unfolds before your eyes. The traditional Basque lunch has been highly praised for its delicious flavors and authentic culinary experience. Many have been mesmerized by the medieval ambiance of Hondarribia and the impressive collection of tapestries in the castle. Overall, this tour has left a lasting impression and has been hailed as a must-do for those seeking an authentic and enriching exploration of the Basque region.
Sagues
(Pass by)
We will pick you up in the morning and walk to Gros district. From Sagües you’ll start the hike of Mount Ulia that forms a part of the coastal version of pilgrimage called by Spaniards ‘camino de Santiago’ or St. James Way in English.
Monte Ulia
This path is locally known as ‘Ruta del Faro de la Plata’ because it pases next to the bulit in 1855 lighthouse (sp. faro) located at the entrance to the port of Pasajes. You will walk along rocky coast passing spectacular coves, rugged cliffs and artistically shaped sandstone rock formations. Mount Ulia was an important migratory whales lookout in 16th and 17th century and it’s a perfect place to learn about the significant role of ocean in the life of Basques.
Albaola, Itsas Kultur Faktoria
The coastal path will finally take us to the village of San Pedro. It’s time to visit Albaola - the sea factory of the Basques. Museum and a shipyard where the local engineers and carpenters are building from scratch a replica of 16th century whaling ship using exclusively traditional techniques!
Pasai Donibane
From San Pedro we will embark on a tiny boat which will take us to the twin village - San Juan located on the other side of the channel. You will immerse yourself in a sleepy atmosphere of this medieval fishing village and enjoy a 3-course traditional Basque lunch with a bottle of local wine! Topa (cheers)!
Jaizkibel
(Pass by)
Having discovered colorful stories of Basque sailors, pirates and whalers you will be chauffeured to Hondarribia. We will drive along a scenic Mount Jaizkibel road. The 457 m high Jaizkibel mountain is considered one of the major areas of biodiversity in the Cantabrian Coast and the view from its top are just breathtaking!
Historic Center of Hondarribia
Hondarribia! It’s high time to discover this picturesque town located right on the border with France. You will visit the fortified part of Hondarribia. Its narrow streets, flowers draped from the balconies and medieval charm creates an extraordinary atmosphere and cultural context. We will also take time to discover a hidden collection of tapestries by Rubens in the castle of Emperor Charles V.
marina arriba monte
Next up, you will continue towards the fishermen’s village called Marina, where the elderly congregate on benches along packed with bustling pintxo bars San Pedro Street. Colorful buildings located along this promenade used to be old fish markets and fishermen’s huts.
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