French Basque Country Coastline Tour in a 70SVW Van

The French Basque Country boasts a stunning coastline, and now travelers can explore it in style aboard a vintage 70s VW van. This four-hour tour promises an immersive cultural experience, taking guests through historical streets, scenic beaches, and charming coastal towns. From captivating pirate tales to mouthwatering Basque cake, the journey offers a unique blend of adventure and local flavor. With breathtaking views along the Basque Corniche, this is an opportunity to discover the region’s captivating heritage in an unforgettable way.

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Key Points

A 4-hour tour exploring the French Basque Country coastline in a 70s VW Van, starting from Biarritz and costing £359.05 for up to 7 people.
Highlights include scenic drives, visits to Côte des Basques beach and the villages of Guéthary and Saint-Jean-De-Luz, with local tastings and cultural experiences.
The guided tour of Guéthary focuses on its 14th-century whaling history and Basque fishing culture, providing an immersive cultural experience.
In Saint-Jean-De-Luz, visitors discover captivating pirate tales, explore charming streets, and taste a renowned Basque cake.
The tour culminates with a scenic drive along the dramatic Basque Corniche, showcasing the Belharra wave phenomenon.

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Tour Overview

The French Basque Country Coastline tour offers participants a chance to explore the picturesque region in a 70s VW Van.

This 4-hour tour starts in Biarritz, where the guide will meet the group at the Biarritz Lighthouse. The tour costs £359.05 per group of up to 7 people.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes a scenic drive, visits to Côte des Basques beach, Guéthary, and Saint-Jean-De-Luz, as well as a drive along the Basque Corniche.

The experience is led by a local guide and includes tastings and bottled water.

Looking for more options in Biarritz? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting in Biarritz, the tour provides a scenic drive through the picturesque streets, exploring the history of this imperial city.

Visitors then visit Côte des Basques beach, the site of Europe’s first surfing.

In Guéthary, the guide leads a tour of the village, highlighting its 14th-century whaling history and Basque fishing culture at the small dry-deck harbor.

Next, the tour discovers the pirate tales and Louis XIV’s wedding history of Saint-Jean-De-Luz, with a break for a tasting of renowned Basque cake.

Finally, the tour drives along the breathtaking Basque Corniche cliffs, introducing the local surf phenomenon, the Belharra wave.

Guéthary

After exploring the history of Biarritz, the tour moves on to the charming village of Guéthary.

Here, the group embarks on a guided tour, learning about the village’s 14th-century whaling history.

They experience the Basque fishing culture firsthand at the small dry-deck harbor.

The guide shares insights into the local way of life, offering a glimpse into the traditions and customs that have shaped this coastal community.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to truly connect with the unique identity and heritage of the French Basque Country.

Saint-Jean-De-Luz

Continuing the tour, the group discovers the city of Saint-Jean-De-Luz, known for its captivating pirate tales and the historic wedding of Louis XIV.

The guide leads them through the charming streets, sharing insights into the city’s rich heritage.

The group takes a break to indulge in a renowned Basque cake, a local specialty.

They explore the small harbor, witnessing the Basque fishing culture firsthand.

The tour’s immersive experience highlights the unique character of Saint-Jean-De-Luz, blending its maritime history with the vibrant traditions of the Basque region.

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The Basque Corniche

The tour now winds along the breathtaking Basque Corniche, where the group takes in the scenic drive along the dramatic cliffs.

The guide introduces the Belharra wave, a local surf phenomenon that draws daring big-wave riders from around the world.

Towering over the crystal-clear waters, the rugged coastline offers an awe-inspiring backdrop for the journey.

Guests soak in the beauty of this untamed landscape, appreciating the region’s natural splendor.

The drive along the Basque Corniche caps off the immersive experience, leaving the travelers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this captivating corner of France.

There's plenty more to explore in Biarritz

Tour Experience

Clémence, a local guide, leads the private tour, providing an immersive experience that highlights the history and culture of the French Basque Country.

Travelers embark on a scenic journey, enjoying 45 minutes of driving through picturesque streets and 30 minutes along the breathtaking Basque Corniche.

Throughout the tour, Clémence shares insights into the region’s past, from the imperial city of Biarritz to the whaling history of Guéthary and the pirate tales of Saint-Jean-De-Luz.

Clémence shares insights into the region’s past, from Biarritz’s imperial city to Guéthary’s whaling history and Saint-Jean-De-Luz’s pirate tales.

Tastings of renowned Basque cake complement the experience, creating a well-rounded exploration of the French Basque Country’s distinctive features.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a private guide/driver, tastings, and bottled water.

It’s not suitable for children under 5 or individuals with mobility impairments. Restrictions prohibit bringing any food or alcoholic drinks into the vehicle.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring rain gear, as the tour may be postponed or cancelled due to inclement weather.

While the scenic route offers breathtaking views, the experience excludes activities for young children and those with physical limitations.

Travelers should be prepared for the elements and abide by the tour’s policies to ensure an enjoyable and safe excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, outside food and alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle during the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but other beverages and snacks are prohibited for safety and comfort reasons.

Is There a Toilet Stop During the 4-Hour Tour?

The tour doesn’t include a dedicated toilet stop, but the guide can accommodate restroom breaks at local establishments along the route if needed. Participants should plan accordingly for the 4-hour duration of the tour.

What Language Does the Tour Guide Speak?

The tour guide, Clémence, is a local guide and likely speaks French as her native language. The tour is conducted in English to accommodate the international participants.

Can We Stop and Take Photos During the Scenic Drives?

Yes, participants can stop and take photos during the scenic drives. The tour includes 45 minutes of scenic drive time and 30 minutes along the breathtaking Basque Corniche, providing ample opportunities to capture the picturesque landscapes.

Is the Van Wheelchair Accessible or Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the van is not wheelchair accessible. Customers with mobility issues are advised to consider alternative tour options that can accommodate their needs.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating French Basque Country Coastline Tour in a charming 70s VW Van. Explore stunning coastal landscapes, historical streets, and picturesque beaches. Discover Guéthary’s whaling heritage, savor local Basque cake in Saint-Jean-De-Luz, and marvel at the breathtaking views along the Basque Corniche. This immersive cultural experience promises an unforgettable journey.