The art of escaping between the hinterland and the coast with Gravel Up

The Basque Country never fully reveals itself from paved roads. To truly grasp the soul of its red and white villages, the power of its mountains, and the poetry of its coastal paths, you need a bike capable of anything. This is where gravel biking comes in, a rapidly growing discipline that finds its most spectacular expression in the Basque Country.

Whether you are a cyclist passing through the Basque coast or a local eager to rediscover its hinterland, the Gravel Up team offers a range of services from the rental of high-end gravel and e-gravels to fully immersive stays.

All photos in this article: ©Fanny Ardisson / Gravel Up

What is gravel?

Before hitting the trails, one question often comes up: what is a gravel bike? Is it a mountain bike with drop handlebars or a road bike with big tires? In reality, it's the best of both worlds.

Unlike mountain bikes, designed to tackle rough obstacles, rocks, or roots with heavy suspension and very wide tires, gravel bikes prioritize fluidity and versatility. Their frames are lightweight, similar to road bikes, but their geometry is designed for long-distance comfort. Their wider, knobby tires allow you to leave the pavement and venture onto forest tracks, dirt roads, or greenways without sacrificing efficiency.

Where mountain biking is technical, gravel biking is an exploration machine. It allows you to ride fast on the road and seamlessly transition onto wild trails. It's the ultimate tool for freedom, enabling you to cover long distances while staying close to nature.

1. Freedom at your feet with Gravel Up bikes

For those who prefer complete independence or simply want to try out this discipline before committing, Gravel Up has made access to high-end equipment easier. In partnership with Cargo Transition in Anglet, a strategic drop-off point located close to cycle paths and coastal forests, rent state-of-the-art gravel and e-gravel (electric-assist) bikes.

The principle is simple: pick up your bike directly from the partner, get technical advice, and set off to explore the surrounding area. Whether it's for a getaway along the beaches of Chambre d'Amour or climbing towards the foothills of the Pyrenees, rental is the ideal gateway to adventure.

2. Get off the beaten track with guided day tours

Sometimes, a map isn't enough to uncover the hidden gems of the Basque Country. That's why Gravel Up has created guided half-day and full-day excursions for you. Led by state-certified guides, these tours are designed to take you places you would never dare to go on your own. They offer:

• Two full-day excursions for total immersion for the most adventurous, combining cultural discovery and a sporting challenge. Choose between a day in the shadow of La Rhune mountain or a day exploring the 4 PDO wines of the Basque Country.
• A half-day trip, between land and ocean, the perfect format for a quick break, ideal for holidaymakers whose schedules are already busy.

These outings are guaranteed disconnection experiences. They allow access to the secret hinterland, panoramas of the Pyrenean peaks and secluded valleys far from the tourist flow.

3. Immersion stays: 3 days to disconnect

Want to organize a two-wheeled getaway without the hassle of planning? Gravel Up has created an exclusive 4-day package (from Thursday evening to Sunday evening). This trip is the flagship of the local offering, a "comfort package" that combines sport, gastronomy, and a friendly atmosphere.

A base camp dedicated to rejuvenation

Upon arrival (with a shuttle service available from Biarritz train station), you will be taken care of. Settle into an exceptional location: a charming hotel nestled in greenery, chosen for its tranquility and wellness facilities.

Between stages, you can relax in the pool, sauna or hammam, before participating in a supervised yoga session, designed specifically for cyclists' recovery.

Between medieval cities and surf spots

The program is a true best-of of the region. Cycle in the footsteps of pilgrims in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, cross the legendary Pas de Roland, and circle La Rhune for breathtaking views of the Atlantic. On the last day, a change of scenery: ride along the famous surf spots of Guéthary and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, before concluding the adventure with a generous brunch.

A sensory and gourmet immersion

Here, effort is always rewarded. The stay is punctuated by moments of pure bliss: an Irouléguy wine tasting amidst the vineyards, a traditional dinner in a cider house, or a picnic overlooking the Iparla peaks. In a small group of 4 to 12 people, enjoy an intimate experience where everything is arranged so you can simply savor the moment.

Whether you bring your own bike or opt for local rentals, this trip is an invitation to discover the best of the region from a new perspective. It promises unforgettable memories, from the sweat of exertion and the laughter of the descents to the splendor of the Basque landscapes.

Ready to shift gears? Whether for a few hours or several days of pure enjoyment, Gravel Up awaits you to write your own story on the roads of the Basque Country. Book your adventure now and get ready to extend your horizons far beyond the marked routes.

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