Map of the French Basque Country
Surrounded by majestic mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, the French Basque Country offers breathtaking landscapes across an area of 3,000 square kilometres. With its three distinct historic provinces – Labourd, Soule and Lower Navarre – this region provides countless opportunities for adventure, whether you enjoy water sports or mountain hiking. Let yourself be charmed by this remarkable destination, as well as by the Spanish Basque Country!
If you’re looking for ideas for your next holiday at our campsite in the Basque Country, here is a short geographical guide to the French Basque Country (shown in blue on the map).
Labourd, a province of the Basque Country
Labourd, a region of the French Basque Country, is an incredible area home to famous seaside resorts including Bayonne, Biarritz, Anglet, Bidart and many more. The coastline stretches for over fifty kilometres and offers a wide range of activities such as sailing, along with spectacular natural attractions to explore. The pure beauty of this part of the Basque Country has made it famous with visitors from all over the world!
The picturesque views of the Bay of Biarritz will captivate and delight you, but don’t miss the many charming villages scattered throughout the hinterland. From Espelette and its famous pepper to Ascain, Sare or Ainhoa, these small towns are nestled among rolling hills and lush greenery. Be sure to admire the typical Basque houses, adorned with their red and green colours, a true symbol of this delightful region.
In the Basque Country, your taste buds will be delighted by local gastronomic specialities such as the succulent Bayonne ham. What’s more, cocoa first arrived in Europe through these ports, and today you can visit museums and chocolate shops in Biarritz and Bayonne!
Surfing is also extremely popular here and has contributed to the region’s reputation thanks to its renowned surf spots, making Labourd an ideal destination for a camping holiday.
The province of Lower Navarre
The province of Lower Navarre lies between Labourd and Soule and is characterised by mountains around Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, its capital, as well as green valleys between Labastide-Clairence and Saint-Palais.
It is a predominantly rural region, dotted with peaceful, charming and authentic villages. To fully appreciate its diversity, wildlife, plant life and stunning panoramas, it is recommended to explore it on foot. The Irouléguy vineyard, a true pillar of Basque gastronomy, is cultivated on terraces around the village of Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry and extends across 27 communes. One of the highlights of this region is the presence of the small Basque horse, the Pottok, which you may encounter while walking in the countryside.
The Pottok, a symbol of the Basque Country, lives in semi-freedom. By visiting the caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya, two exceptional listed historic monuments in the region, you will discover traces of prehistoric life, including numerous tools used in daily life by early inhabitants and abundant rock art decorating the walls. These sites offer visitors an unforgettable journey through history!
The province of Soule
Soule, located in the western part of the French Basque Country, is made up of two unique areas: the hills around Mauléon-Licharre in the north and the mountains around Tardets-Sorholus in the south. Its vast forests, canyons and gorges make it especially appealing to mountain hiking enthusiasts.
Soule is deeply attached to its traditions, which it celebrates through lively festivals and performances of traditional songs and dances. An ideal destination to discover Ossau-Iraty AOC cheese and also the birthplace of the legendary Basque espadrille (80% of French espadrilles are produced in Mauléon), the pastures of Soule offer visitors an unforgettable experience!
In summary, the French Basque Country is a true haven of discovery and tradition. Labourd, Lower Navarre and Soule each offer different environments for a wide range of interests: beaches, mountain landscapes or culinary tastings are just some of the experiences available in this remarkable region. Whatever your preferences, you’ll find them here, ready to be enjoyed!
From the iconic towns of Bayonne, Biarritz and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to picturesque villages, the Basque Country offers an apparently endless array of cultural attractions. Whether sampling Basque specialities such as delicious Bayonne ham or traditional Ossau-Iraty cheese, there is something for everyone in this vibrant region.
The French Basque Country is a must-visit destination for those seeking raw authenticity combined with lively, enriching experiences.
