10 UNUSUAL experiences in the Basque Country!

Want to get off the beaten track, discover the Basque Country differently ... Here are 10 unusual experiences to soak up the atmosphere of this territory, be moved by its beauty, feel its heart and its authentic soul with its inhabitants passionate about their profession , their customs, their country!
Opening photo: Provided by La Cité de l'Océan in Biarritz

The caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya, in the footsteps of our ancestors

Well hidden in the Arberoue valley, these caves are multifaceted jewels !

At the geological level, you will discover exceptional concretions , particularly well highlighted by discreet layouts, respecting the atmosphere and the musicality of the site. Also on a cultural level, you will start the visit in a prehistoric series production workshop , then you will enter a sanctuary cave ... The museum allows you to better appreciate the discoveries made on site: engravings, paintings and movable art . But the most astonishing feature of these caves is the sounds produced by the drapes of concretions.

What an emotion to hear this music already listened to by our ancestors thousands of years ago !

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A Basque Pelota match, to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage

Two professional Basque pelota players , champions of France and the World, just for you ... It's Ona Pilota! This is surely the best way to discover this traditional game , an inevitable part of Basque culture! You begin the discovery in the tailoring workshop , just to familiarize yourself with the equipment. In a friendly and fun atmosphere, you will learn the different disciplines and techniques. And finally, practice with a nice workout .

A complete initiation, accompanied by good advice!

• Attempted ? Discover our full report
  

Do not forget your Makhila before walking the beautiful trails of the region

Wondering what it is all about? It is a traditional object from the Basque Country, stemming from ancestral know-how , a true work of art …

Do we stop the suspense here? The Makhila and a walking stick ! But not just any ... It is made of precious materials, with passion and patience, custom-made or chosen out of a crush, it represents the Basque tradition all by itself.

A great discovery of Basque values and customs .

• Discover the Ainciart Bergara workshop in Larressore
  
• To find out more about the Gaurko Makila workshop, craftsman and creator of Makilas in Souraïde
  
• To know more about Makhila in general
  

Photo credit: The Ainciart Bergara workshop in Larressore, fact sheet on the Guide to the Basque Country

Relive the discovery of the Verna cave

Are you fascinated by the underground universe? You dream of finding yourself in the sneakers of a caver … More than a visit, this tourist site offers you an experience , near Sainte-Engrace. Discover the largest underground room open to the public in the world, just that!

This adventure is available in three versions: a secure route, accessible to people with reduced mobility, to live with the family ; a more sporty option with a panoramic view and a real hike in " explorer " mode with a guide specialized in caving.

Impressive, spectacular, striking ... well-inspired adjectives to describe what nature hides most secret , under our feet ...

• To learn more, read our article
  
• All practical information
  

Photo credits: Lesley Williamson, La Grotte de la Verna

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Surf without getting wet at the Cité de l'Océan

Learn to surf, in virtual mode ; discover the ocean immersively ; learn while having fun… The Cité de l'Océan, in Biarritz , offers you experimental and original activities to experience and experience: participating in the turtle odyssey , diving into the heart of a Polynesian marine reserve … And will you dare to enter the Seaborg ? 3D animations, 360 °, a 4D cinema, simulators, virtual reality masks: this cutting-edge technology is at your disposal to better understand underwater life.

For practical information, see our information sheet

Taste a vinified wine under water: Egiategia

A small wine tasting in the bay of Saint Jean de Luz , in Ciboure, it's very pleasant and you can already see it there… The opportunity to taste a sparkling wine , that's original! But discover an innovative and unique winemaking method in the world , underwater, 15 meters deep ... This is enough to impress friends and bring back an original gift! Consume with moderation of course ...

• To find this little corner of paradise
  
• Learn more about the vineyards of the Basque Country
  

Not even afraid of the void, cross the Holzarte footbridge

Lovers of hiking and dizzying sensations , do not go your way! From Larrau (near the Spanish border), a one hour hike , quite physical or five hours, a little more gentle, between plain, mountain and forest, will take you to the gorges of Holzarte and Olhadubi , a canyon dug by the Olhadoko erreka (a river).

And there, what a spectacle… Perched at more than 150 meters in height, the panorama is just sensational and the impression of emptiness is striking.

A landscape that deserves but worth the detour!

• Consult the information sheet
  

Get your feet eaten by little fish

Want an activity to take care of yourself , naturally if possible ... And why not try something new !

Don't worry, promise, your feet will stay intact! These little rascals are just lovers of your little dead skin (and yes, it is much less glamorous…). And after all, if it pleases them ... You get rid of it!

In Biarritz , "Well-being fish" will take care of your toes like royalty. Exfoliation, stimulation, relaxation, and reflexology , your feet will want more. It tickles, it's funny and it feels good! To consume without moderation this time

• To contact them and make an appointment
  

Jump into the void, but without falling, without getting on a plane and without a parachute

Come on, a free fall , without risk, accessible to all ages and almost without taking your eyes off the ground, does that appeal to you?

Easy ! You just have to test a simulator and that's good (that's the case…) since there is an Air Fly 64 wind tunnel in Saint-Pierre-d'Irube, near Bayonne . In combination, helmeted and briefed, you are ready to launch yourself into the void, well almost… In a glass tube five meters high, with a guide who guides you, you are not kidding with safety ! And why not keep a small memory of these memorable moments : a video is offered to you in addition.

A few seconds are enough to experience thrills of breathtaking realism .

• More info on the fact sheet
  

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Giant electric scooters surrounded by nature

The Pignada forest in Anglet is an exceptional natural site , firstly thanks to its location. Located near the beaches and in the BAB agglomeration (Bayonne, Anglet, Biarritz), it is a breath of fresh air during the summer. But in any season, it is a haven of peace , with very old trees and a great diversity of species . So to discover it without much effort but respecting it, a guided tour in a 100% electric scooter is essential! Very easy to use , the scooter is the ideal mode of locomotion from 8 years .

A family activity , fun and educational with Uhina, not to be missed.

• Interested, discover our full report
  

And now, this unusual tour of the Basque Country ends. It is, of course, not exhaustive because this country holds many secrets. But you must keep surprises for new visits!

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Article written by Stéphanie Tempier for the Guide to the Basque Country

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