Top 10 cool visits in the Basque Country!

Discover Pays Basque

You're hot? During the summer season, but also afterwards during the Indian summer in the off season, the Basque Country can become a very hot region where one seeks freshness. Wondering what to do in the Basque Country when it's too hot? Here is a top 10 of the best ideas for staying cool. With the children, think about these activities between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., to protect them from the hottest rays.

Photos of the article: see credit in the Alt of the image.

Credit: Côte de Bidart Photo by Lamax / AdobeStock

1- Visit the caves of the Basque Country

Come and visit these sanctuaries nestled under rocky massifs! The decorated caves or caves with concretions open their doors to you and the good news? It is on average 13 degrees, you will even have to think about taking a little wool! Cave of Sare, Isturitz, Oxocelhaya or La Verna, their atypical geologies are interesting and will please the whole family.

Read our article on the caves to visit in the Basque Country

2- Immerse yourself in the Museums of the Basque Country

Museums are also great ideas for learning while staying out of the sun. Some are air-conditioned, others are cool. Remember to make these visits in the middle of the day before going to the beach when it is less hot!

To make your choice, read our article on the Museums of the Basque Country!

Villa Arnaga, photo by Lesley Williamson

3- Play castle in the castles of the Basque Country

Do you like beautiful heritage? The architecture? The story? Come and visit the Castles of the Basque Country, they are numerous and fascinating, they reflect an era, a lifestyle. Near the coast or further inland, their thick walls will protect you from the heat.

Read our article on the Castles to visit in the Basque Country but also our section on the castles to have their addresses and descriptions

The Abbadia Observatory Castle, information sheet

4- Lakes and leisure centers for swimming and playing in fresh water

Unlike fine sandy beaches, lakeside beaches are green oases. Set up your towel in the grass under a tree, have a picnic, enjoy the freshness of fresh water. The lakes often offer leisure bases for games on the water, on inflatable structures, with slides... You can also, when the weather is cooler, rent a pedalo or a SUP!

Read our article on leisure bases, lakes and places to swim in the Basque Country (outside the ocean)

5 The D'holzarte footbridge, to gain height

Attention, chills guaranteed on a suspension bridge 150 meters high and 70 meters long, in the town of Larrau. The Footbridge of Holzarte is a curiosity for those who are not afraid of heights! Completely secure and in a beautiful natural environment, it is the ideal place to cool off.

Read our report on the Holzarte Footbridge

The Holzarte Footbridge, photo by Lesley Williamson

6- Take a boat trip

It's less hot on the water! The boat trips are very popular in the summer to take advantage of the iodized spray. From the ports of the Basque Country, boats of all categories, of all styles, take you for sea trips or fishing trips!

Consult our section to find a boat rental or a sea trip in the Basque Country

7- Surfing, it's less hot in the water!

Going for a swim to cool down, okay, but playing ball in the water isn't your thing? How about taking a surf lesson? There are spots for all levels in the Basque Country. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, surfing is a very popular activity!

Read our article on the surf spots of the Basque Country and consult the service providers who offer surf lessons and initiation

8- Go to the market, early in the morning!

Come on, we get up early, we take our basket and we will discover the colorful stalls of the markets of the Basque Country. Hams, Espelette peppers, cheeses and pastries line the stalls with enticing products and aromas. Anglet, Ahetze, Ainhoa, Arbonne or Bayonne, find a cultural and gastronomic heritage with berets, espadrilles and makilas.

Consult our page on the markets of the Basque Country, their day and place. Also read our article on the Top 5 of the most beautiful markets in the Basque Country

The Halles de Bayonne on the left, on the banks of the Nive. Photo © Rostislav Ageev | Adobe Stock

9- Visit parks and gardens to find freshness

They are perfect for a little well-deserved shaded break. The gardens are full of exuberant and colorful plants, which will appeal to lovers of flora and make children curious. Some gardens are free, these are the municipal gardens, others have a small entrance fee.

Consult our article on the most beautiful parks and gardens in the Basque Country and our section on parks and gardens.

10- Visit Bayonne Cathedral

One last idea to stay cool, Bayonne Cathedral is a place as beautiful as it is relaxing. The Bayonne Tourist Office offers guided tours, don't miss them to find out more about this imposing building.

See our report on the visit to Bayonne Cathedral

Tours are over ! And for early risers, here is a little bonus with the walk on the coastal path from Bidart to Hendaye to take in the coolness of the early morning. We promised you, you stayed safe in the Basque Country!

Did you like our article? Find more on the Basque Country Guide blog. We are also on social networks, come and consult the Facebook page of the Basque Country Guide, as well as our Instagram account @guidedupaysbasque

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