Le Makila Talaia Exceptional makilas in Anglet

The Makila: The Basque walking stick revisited by TALAIA

A must-have in the Basque Country, the makila , which means "stick" in Basque, is much more than just a tool: it is a cultural symbol rich in history. It can be found in village streets as well as on the trails of the Pyrenees. In his workshop-boutique TALAIA, located in Anglet between Bayonne and Biarritz, Éric perpetuates this tradition by reinterpreting this legendary stick with ancestral know-how and a touch of modernity. Discover a unique world and let yourself be seduced by his exceptional makilas.

Makila: A tradition preserved by a passionate craftsman

For centuries, the walking stick has been a faithful companion of Basque shepherds, used daily for resting, defending themselves, guiding herds, or even marking out a path. Full of meaning, this practical and versatile object is often passed down from generation to generation. Today, the makila remains an essential element of Basque culture, combining functionality and elegance. Éric, a passionate craftsman, is bringing it back to life in his workshop in Anglet. Each piece is designed with respect for tradition, offering a 100% Basque, authentic and high-end produc .

The Makila TALAIA: A personalized, high-end walking stick

At TALAIA, Éric selects noble materials and offers tailor-made makilas that adapt to the tastes and needs of each individual. Inspired by Japanese techniques, he uses Yakisugi, a wood burning method, to protect the ash while revealing its grain. After sanding and oiling, the wood displays a unique caramel hue.

The special features of the TALAIA makila include:

• Knob in stainless steel or bronze cut from the mass, customizable by engraving,
• Hardened ash wood, handleless for a clean design,
• Rubber tip, ideal for hard or wet surfaces,
• 5 sizes available, suitable for all body types.

Eric thus offers a modern and elegant reinterpretation of the traditional makila , without a point, perfect for everyday use or as a decorative object. Treat yourself to a timeless and typically Basque souvenir .

The Shepherd's Umbrella: A handcrafted creation from Talaia in the Basque Country

The shepherd's umbrella, a former companion of Basque shepherds, today symbolizes exceptional craftsmanship. Éric has reinvented this iconic object by combining it with the TALAIA walking stick and the expertise of Parapluies des Pyrénées, a family business run by Hervé and Christophe Panto for three generations.

Features of the Talaia umbrella:

• Thick, durable and resistant cotton canvas ,
• 9 rattan ribs , sturdy and light,
• Mast made of burnt ash wood, carefully crafted,
• Pommel in buffalo horn or manech , or in bone, engraved with the 7 bands of the Basque provinces.

This umbrella is as much a functional object as it is a piece of handcrafted decoration.

The Shepherd's Umbrella: A tailor-made, high-end collection

In his workshop in Anglet, Éric offers a collection of authentic umbrellas, available in 5 colors and with a choice of 3 types of handles : black horn, Manech horn, or bone. For a unique model, you can customize your umbrella:

• Engraving on the pommel (initials, logo or symbol),
• Inscription of a sentence on the brass ring,
• Color and finish options according to your preferences.

Take home an ancestral and symbolic souvenir from the Basque Country: an elegant, durable and fully personalized shepherd's umbrella, signed by a passionate craftsman.

Also discover Talaia shepherd's umbrellas and Pallares knives at Éric, the brand's official retailer.