Long weekend exploring the Basque Country by gravel bike
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration4 days
-
LevelConfirmed
-
DestinationBiarritz / Basque Country
-
AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
-
CO₂-Emissions57.93 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIn a group
-
Languages
French
In a few words
In the heart of the Basque Country, this gravel cycling trip invites you to a three-day immersion between the Atlantic Ocean, verdant hills, and the first Pyrenean peaks. An adventure where you cycle to the rhythm of unspoiled nature, between dense forests, pastures, open panoramas, and air mingled with the scents of salt and mountains.
The carefully planned routes lead you through iconic villages like Ascain and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the historic gateway to the Camino de Santiago. Each day immerses you in the Basque soul: an authentic land, deeply attached to its traditions, generous in its landscapes as well as its culture.
Between gentle climbs, rolling paths and breathtaking views, the Basque Country offers a varied playground, ideal for gravel riding, whether you are an expert or simply looking to explore at your own pace.
The team's favorite: these gourmet breaks on the terrace, where sheep's cheese is accompanied by a glass of Irouléguy, facing the mountains.
The highlights
-
An all-inclusive stay. Just bring your best smile, we'll take care of the rest!
-
A local guide will accompany you to discover the richness of the mountain range.
-
Bicycles available for hire (muscular or electric) to discover the sport.
Photos
Sport
Level
Gravel biking
The expert's opinion
“We start together, we finish together.” Our trips aren't races, and our routes are meticulously planned so that everyone can push their limits in their own way while fully enjoying the experience. Our certified guides adapt to the group for a 100% rejuvenating and active holiday.
In figures
Gravel
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 56 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 990 m
Management
French
On our trips, there is always a qualified local guide, as well as a member of our team present with a support van throughout the adventure.
Program
-
Basque Reunions & Flavors
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
We will welcome you from 7 pm onwards in a hotel chosen for its charm and comfort, located in the small village of Arbonne, near Biarritz. If you are arriving by train, a shuttle will pick you up at the Biarritz TGV station (around 6 pm) and take you to the hotel.
The evening will begin with a Basque-inspired dinner, showcasing local produce and regional specialties. In this convivial and delicious atmosphere, you'll get to know the rest of the group, your guide, and the support team.
Day 1 -
Head to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, in the heart of the deep Basque Country
- Activity Gravel
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 61 km
- Positive elevation gain 1170 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a hearty breakfast, we set off from Arbonne, passing through the charming villages of Espelette and Itxassou before following the Nive River and crossing the legendary Pas de Roland. We'll stop for a picnic lunch in Bidarray, overlooking the Iparla peaks, then continue through the secluded Gastangarte pass to reach the Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry valley and the Irouléguy vineyards.
We then arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a legendary stop for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, to discover its medieval town and enjoy a tasting at our partner estate, before returning by van to base camp. After this beautiful day on the bikes, at 6pm, participate in a yoga session before your dinner, which will be in a traditional cider house.
Day 2 -
Tour of La Rhune and immersion in the Basque mountains
- Activity Gravel
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 70 km
- Positive elevation gain 1400 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From Arbonne, we head towards Ascain and then the Ibardin pass via the tracks, with spectacular views of La Rhune, the Basque coast and the Atlantic Ocean. We cross the Spanish border to reach a local venta, where we enjoy a traditional meal.
In the afternoon, we headed to Ainhoa to play with the border, before ending the day in Sare, a typical village at the foot of La Rhune.
Once you arrive at base camp, enjoy your free time before dinner by relaxing in the hotel's pool, sauna, or hammam. The day concludes with dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 -
On the road to the surf spots and a final Basque immersion
- Activity Gravel
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 37 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
We'll head to the Atlantic coast to discover the famous surf spots of Bidart, Guéthary, and finally Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where we'll enjoy a well-deserved coffee break. The return journey takes us inland, allowing us to enjoy the magnificent Basque trails one last time. The day concludes with brunch at the hotel before we head to Biarritz train station.
Day 4
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation for 3 nights in a double room
- A great welcome pack
- A mechanic who will share his secrets with you
- Return transfer from Biarritz TGV station
- All meals and snacks during your stay
- A professional guide
- Unique tracks developed by the team
- A support and transport van
- Wellness activities: yoga, meditation, relaxation
- An evening of celebration
- A community of enthusiasts
- Post-ride drinks
The price does not include
- Transportation from your home
- Travel insurance with repatriation coverage / Civil liability
- Personal drinks and other souvenir purchases
- Anything not specified in "What's included"
- Gravel bike rental (supplement available)
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
The Aurélien team
Specializing in gravel biking, this local agency designs all-inclusive trips in the heart of the highest mountain ranges in France and Europe. Its concept is based on premium service: quality accommodations, local cuisine, expert guides, and comprehensive logistical support. The agency's ethos is summed up as shared adventure: "We leave together, we return together." Here, performance takes a backseat to the pleasure of riding and camaraderie, offering an authentic and wild experience accessible to those who want to discover the mountains in a different way.