Cycling in the Basque Country: Greenways, cycle paths, major routes

Do you enjoy family bike rides, road cycling, and the thrill of mountain biking ? Whatever your ride, cycling is a fantastic way to discover the Basque Country from a different perspective. The steep cliffs, battered by waves and wind, are perfect for adventurous cyclists. For a more tranquil experience, the lush forests and rolling hills of the hinterland are crisscrossed with cycle paths, ideal for pleasant rides. Feeling motivated and fit? Hop on your bike and tackle the famous cycling routes that inspire dreams : the Vélodyssée, the Scandibérique… Ready? Let's go for a grand tour of the Basque Country!

Exploring the Basque Country by bike

Are you looking for an active holiday ? Perfect! The Basque Country is a destination ideal for cycling. This region can be enjoyed in all seasons, thanks to its oceanic influences and temperate climate. Protected by the Pyrenees mountain range, winters are mild and the shoulder seasons are beautiful, even if they can be rainy. That said, we're not complaining; this humidity keeps the valleys and forests so lush and green. You'll see, the landscapes in the Basque Country are incredibly diverse :

• The steep cliffs of the coast offer a real breath of fresh sea air, very pleasant by the ocean.
• The typical, colourful and welcoming villages in Labourd offer a change of scenery in just a short bike ride.
• The pastures and valleys of Lower Navarre draw you into an authentic and rustic atmosphere.
• The forests of Soule, a little further inland, offer beautiful walks with lush vegetation.
• At the foot of the Pyrenees, beyond the border, discover the southern Basque Country on the Spanish side and its vigorous climbs in the mountains.

The cycle paths of the Basque Country? Beautiful rides to enjoy all year round.

Whether you're a casual cyclist or a seasoned pro, this generous and hilly region has something for everyone. Follow us, we'll take you on the most beautiful cycling trails.

• Exploring Esterençuby, starting right from the village, is a route that can be quite challenging with the ascent of the Errozate pass. The 4-hour loop follows shaded streams, between valley bottoms and hilltops.
• The Hendaye to 2 Jumeaux greenway offers eco-friendly travel starting from Hendaye train station. Cycle along the water for 6 km between the Bidassoa river and the Atlantic Ocean to reach the 2 Jumeaux beach.
• The Bayonne to Ustaritz greenway in ecomobility which takes you from Bayonne station to the Ustaritz sports field along the Nive, with a pretty waterfall which allows you to take pretty photos.
• The Uhabia greenway in Bidart leads you to Uhabia beach, a beautiful spot where swimming is possible. The starting point is at the Bassidour mill, on the road of the same name.
• The Bayonne to Ustaritz greenway, an old towpath which runs along the Nive river from the Floride car park in Bayonne to the car park at the Xantxinenea Bidea road in Ustaritz for 11km.
• The Guiche to Bidache greenway starts at the Laxague bridge in La Bourgade and runs along the Bidouze river to the port road in Bidache. This peaceful 9km walk takes 2-3 hours.
• The Chiberta greenway is a lovely loop starting from the parking lot on Avenue de Montbrun. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Pignada forest towards Anglet, between the lake and charming villas, on a 7km route.
• The Uhabia greenway begins at the intersection of Rue de Bassilour and Chemin de Bichipau and leads to the Uhabia estuary, Avenue d'Espagne. This flat and accessible walk is ideal for families, punctuated by boardwalks and information panels.
• The Green Way from Salies-de-Béarn to Castagnéde. Start from the Salies casino car park and head to Bourdettes, rue de Sauveterre, a very colourful and shaded 8km walk.

Hop on your bike, there are miles of cycle paths in the Basque Country.

EuroVelo 1, the Atlantic Cycle Route

To relax a little, in the town of Anglet, an exceptional natural site awaits you: the Pignada forest.

The EuvoVélo 3, the Scandibérique

THE PYRENEES PASS ROAD

This time, we're staying in France for a scenic hike that's no less legendary. Between Hendaye and Cerbère, in the Pyrénées-Orientales, you can tackle 911 km of elevation gain across 34 iconic Tour de France mountain passes on a fully marked route. Follow the yellow jersey's path through various regions of the Basque Country and even a bit of Spain before reaching Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, from the beaches to the highest mountains of Soule.

The Green Way and walks along the Nive

We return to Bayonne to take the Nive Green Way to Ustaritz. Located near the town center, this is an easy, family-friendly ride that offers many advantages : easy access, parking, proximity to shops… You'll be amazed by the change of scenery it provides. Cycle through nature on 12 km of cycle path, with the panoramic views of the Pyrenees as your backdrop.

On the banks of the Nive, the setting is charming and promises delightful surprises with the equestrian center nearby. Children love these unexpected encounters, but be aware that center clients and local residents may use this road by car.

If this lovely river appeals to you, head down the Nive towards the south of Labourd, as far as Itxassou. A walk is truly unmissable : "Le Pas de Roland," a bucolic and enchanting stroll. Bring your mountain bike, as you're no longer on a cycle path! To enjoy the sunny days and the pleasures of the water, go to Bidarray. Ur Bizia rents canoes, inflatable kayaks, and hydrospeed boards for rafting on the Nive.

The mountain roads of Soule

We enter the Soule region, at the foot of the Pyrenees. It's a land for hikers and cyclists, with its gorges and mountain passes. The tourist office lists the various routes available on its website. There's something for everyone and every level…

It's a mountainous, rustic, and characterful region where you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Basque traditions. Particularly in Mauléon-Licharre, the espadrille capital, or in Larrau, a typical mountain village with its slate-roofed houses and steep, winding streets.

Spanish Greenways

This country doesn't end at the administrative borders with Spain… In the Southern Basque Country, you'll also find numerous walks, greenways, and impressive mountain passes. The Euskadi Pays Basque website offers ideas for cycling trips.

Whether on foot or by bike, climbing a mountain pass is always a victory over oneself. We suggest starting from Hondarribia. You'll follow the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) to climb Jaizkibel. The ascent is certainly steep, but it prepares you for a spectacular view. From the summit, you'll overlook Irun, Hondarribia, Hendaye, San Sebastián, Pasaia, Renteria… It's breathtaking and awe-inspiring !

Some good tips…

• During your cycling trip, you'll discover many villages. Here's a sneak peek at what you'll see: our article on the 10 villages of the inland Basque Country that will leave you speechless …
• To bring back a small souvenir related to your holiday: Visit a workshop where the Basque beret is made: here are some manufacturers.
• We also invite you to discover an essential tool for hikers and walkers: the makhila, a traditional walking stick resulting from unique craftsmanship – a piece of Basque heritage, representative of the authentic character of its inhabitants.
• If you prefer a sweet treat, we suggest our current favorite.
• Want to get off the beaten track? Here's our article on 10 unusual experiences in the Basque Country.
• The Basque Country is renowned for its friendliness and the joviality of its inhabitants. Numerous festivals mark the seasons, whether by the sea or in the heart of the villages. In Espelette, don't miss the chili pepper festival in October.

Our cycling tour of the Basque Country has come to an end, but you'll find plenty more information at tourist offices or on their websites. We hope we've inspired you to plan an active holiday and discover another side of this beautiful region.

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