Get to know Pays-Basque

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees mountains in southwestern France, the French Basque Country (Pays Basque) is a land of proud identity, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. Here, rugged coastlines, green rolling hills, and whitewashed villages with red shutters paint a picture of rustic beauty and timeless charm.

The Basque people, with their unique language (Euskara), deep-rooted traditions, and joyful spirit, give this region its soul. Coastal towns like Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz offer world-class surfing and a glamorous seaside atmosphere, while inland villages such as Espelette, Ainhoa, and Sare provide a more tranquil, traditional escape.

Whether you're hiking in the Pays Quint, watching a game of pelota, or wandering through colorful weekly markets, you’ll quickly discover that life here flows with rhythm, pride, and passion.

A bit of History

The Basques are one of the oldest ethnic groups in Europe, and their presence in the region predates recorded history. Isolated by mountains and language, they’ve maintained their distinct identity despite centuries of outside rule, from Romans and Moors to the Kingdom of France.

The region’s strategic location near the Spanish border made it a hotspot for cross-cultural exchange, smugglers, and resistance fighters during World War II.

Even today, the Basque Country’s autonomy and cultural expression remain strong. The Basque flag (Ikurriña), traditional festivals, dances, and songs aren’t just preserved – they are part of everyday life. Villages proudly display their history, and you’ll often hear locals speaking Euskara in cafés, schools, and shops.

Culinary knowledge

Basque cuisine is bold, hearty, and deeply tied to local ingredients. From the sea comes line-caught hake, tuna, and anchovies, often grilled simply or used in richly flavored stews. The hills provide lamb, cheeses, and the famous Kintoa ham, a regional delicacy with protected status.

One of the cornerstones of Basque cuisine is Espelette pepper, a smoky, mildly spicy red pepper that flavors everything from sauces to seafood. It’s often seen drying on house walls in the village of the same name.
Don’t miss axoa (a spicy veal and pepper stew), piperade (a pepper, tomato, and egg dish), or a slice of gâteau Basque, a buttery almond or cherry-filled cake. Basque cider and the red wines of Irouléguy pair beautifully with the region’s rich dishes.


And if you're lucky enough to visit a traditional feria or local gastronomic event, you’ll experience food not just as sustenance, but as a celebration of life and identity.