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Welcome, or as they say in Basque Ogni Etorri! From our meeting point at Bilbao Airport we will transfer to our unique 5-star hotel-a series of luxury houses- tucked in the hills of the French Basque Country. Lunch is provided as we assist in bike assembly and fitting. Our introductory ride takes us to the Basque village of St. Etienne. Dinner this evening with our hotel’s acclaimed young Chef, Cedric Roubin, who was born and raised near St. Etienne.

Ride distance: 35 miles Overnight: Bidarray/Auberge Ostapé

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All Basque cyclists gain their strength from the region’s hills. Pierre Cazaux is one of many Basque professionals, but one of only a few from the French Navarre region. He was the third non-Spanish rider to join the former Euskaltel team. This ride is a leg breaker over Pierre’s training roads and through the small villages that are the heart and soul of French Basque life.  Dinner this evening is with Michelin chef and Basque native Cedric Bechade and his contemporary interpretation of Basque cuisine.  Ride distance: 55 miles Overnight: Bidarray/Auberge Ostapé

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In 2003 and 2006, the Tour de France rode through the French Basque Country, climbing the Col Bagargui- the Basque answer to l’Alpe d’Huez in France and the Passo Mortirolo in Italy- on the way to Bayonne and the Col d’Osquich in 2006 on the way to Pau and we’ll experience both stages at their best. This evening’s dinner is yours to choose in the village of St. Jean-Pied de Port, a town known for its heritage as part of the pilgrimage to Campostela.

Ride distance: 68 miles Overnight: Bidarray/Auberge Ostapé

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Miguel Indurain is perhaps the greatest Basque cyclist. His training routes from Pamplona were legendary, and today’s ride over the Puerto de Otxondo and the Col d’Izpeguy covers a portion of what was a 180 kilometer loop for Big Mig.  We’ll finish with an ascent of Monte Jaizkibel, the highest point on the Basque Coast and the icon of the Clasica San Sebastian. Chef Aitor Arregui hosts us in his restaurant with fresh seafood and traditional Basque recipes.

Ride distance: 65 miles Overnight: Bidarray/Auberge Ostapé

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The Clasica San Sebastian is the pride of Basque cycling, and our ride takes us inland up the Alto de Garate and Alto de Azkarate which are in the early part of the race. We will also visit one of the most significant sites in the Basque Country, the Sanctuary of Loyola, birthplace of St. Ignatius of Loyola.  The small but lively village of Getaria is perfect for an evening visit to the old center for a taste of tradition and excellence at your choice. Ride distance: 30 or 60 miles Overnight: Bidarray/Auberge Ostapé

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The mountains of Guizpucoa and the climbs of the Iturburu and Andazarrate to name two, have been the training grounds for the greatest of Basque cyclists, former and current. No ride in this area is complete without riding the skyline that overlooks the Bay of Biscay, before descending into the beautiful city of San Sebastian.  This evening, a favorite young chef – born and raised in San Sebastian- hosts us in his small restaurant in the heart of the old city.

Ride distance: 65 miles Overnight: San Sebastian/Villa Soro

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The Collado de Arichulegui is famous as a smuggglers route for livestock and alcohol.  We’ll ascend it into France and circle the famed mountain of La Rhune, well known for its mountain peak silhouette. Returning along the coastal cliffs of the Bay of Biscay and the Corniche Basque gives a taste of the beach life. This evening is highlighted with a tapas crawl through the Gros neighborhood of San Sebastian and a final dinner in one of the city’s best kept secret restaursnts.

Ride distance: 60 miles Overnight: San Sebastian/Villa Soro

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Thank you, or as they say in Basque Eskerrik Asko for joining our trip. It is quite possible even with all the riding you may leave a few pounds heavier but surely not without feeling the warmth and experiencing the joy of the Basque people and their region.  We’ll get you wherever you need to be for your departure today.